Making It Last

Casting Actors Cast – Career Longevity and Success

INTRO: Hey there, incredible actors! Welcome back to Casting Actors Cast, the podcast that’s here to support you in making smart, strategic, and fulfilling choices in your career. I’m Jeffrey Dreisbach, your casting director, teacher, and industry guide, helping you navigate the ever-evolving world of acting.

Today, we’re talking about something crucial: how to ensure career longevity and continued success. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your career, the choices you make now can shape the path ahead. Should you stay focused on one singular goal, or is it wiser to have a series of choices in mind? How do you make tough decisions about transitioning between stage, film, TV, or even new creative avenues? Let’s break it all down so you can keep thriving in this business for years to come.

Singular Goal vs. Series of Choices – The Career Philosophy

One of the biggest traps actors fall into is thinking their career must follow a rigid, singular goal—like "I must be a Broadway star" or "I have to land a major movie franchise." While ambition is fantastic, this industry is unpredictable. If you put all your energy into only one specific outcome, you may end up missing opportunities that could be equally, if not more, fulfilling.

A more sustainable approach? Consider a series of choices rather than a single endgame. This means staying open to shifts in your career and making thoughtful transitions based on opportunities, skill development, and the industry’s evolving needs. For example, a stage actor may eventually move into TV, a TV actor into voiceover work, or an on-screen performer into directing. These shifts don’t mean you’re abandoning your dreams—they mean you’re adapting and expanding them.

Career Transitions: Moving Between Mediums

From Stage to Screen

Many actors dream of making the leap from stage to film or television. The key? Adjusting your technique. Stage acting requires projection, larger physicality, and heightened emotional expression. On screen, subtlety is key. Watching yourself on camera, working with a coach, and getting comfortable with on-set techniques can make this transition smoother. Also, network with film and TV professionals—many opportunities arise from connections.

From Film to Television

While film offers prestige, television provides consistency. TV actors develop characters over time, requiring stamina and adaptability. If you’re moving from film to TV, be ready for fast-paced shooting schedules, last-minute script changes, and the endurance required for long-term roles.

Exploring Voiceover, Motion Capture, and Commercial Work

Expanding into voiceover or commercial work can provide financial stability while keeping your skills sharp. Motion capture, gaming voiceover, and even audiobook narration are growing fields that utilize acting talent in fresh ways.

The Art of Making Difficult Career Decisions

So, how do you decide which path to take when facing a career shift? Here’s a method to help:

1. Identify Your Core Artistic Values – What excites you? What kind of work fulfills you creatively? Your choices should align with what makes you feel passionate about performing.

2. Assess Market Demand – While passion is crucial, practical awareness matters. Where is the industry headed? Are there emerging trends (like streaming platforms, international productions, or digital content) that align with your skills?

3. Seek Guidance – Talk to mentors, coaches, or industry professionals who have experience in the area you’re considering. Their insight can be invaluable.

4. Take Small Steps First – If you're considering a shift, dip your toes in before diving all the way. Try workshops, small roles, or short-term projects in your new area of interest.

5. Trust Your Instincts – If a new opportunity excites you but scares you a little, that’s often a good sign. Growth happens outside of comfort zones.

Maintaining a Sustainable Acting Career

1. Keep Training – Never stop learning. Whether it’s refining your acting technique, taking movement classes, or expanding into on-camera work, continuous education keeps you competitive.

2. Build Relationships, Not Just a Resume – Networking isn’t just about meeting the “right” people—it’s about cultivating genuine connections. A great reputation and strong relationships lead to long-term career growth.

3. Stay Flexible, Yet Focused – While staying open to new opportunities is key, don’t jump at everything. Be selective about roles and projects that align with your goals and artistic integrity.

4. Take Care of Yourself – A long career requires physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Prioritize rest, stay active, and engage in activities that recharge you outside of acting.

5. Remember: Success Looks Different for Everyone – Some actors find fulfillment in Broadway, others in indie films, some in teaching, and others in voiceover work. Define what success means to you and chase that, not someone else’s version of it.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Your acting career is not a straight road—it’s a winding journey filled with surprises, detours, and exciting new paths. Instead of locking yourself into one rigid goal, consider embracing a series of choices that lead to long-term success. Stay adaptable, keep refining your craft, and be open to the unexpected. That’s how you build a career that not only lasts but keeps you fulfilled along the way.

That’s it for today’s episode of Casting Actors Cast! If you found this helpful, subscribe, leave a review, and visit CastingActorsCast.com for more resources. Until next time—stay inspired, stay resilient, and keep telling your story!