November 25, 2025 • 57 mins
With over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Kimberly Crandall has been bringing stories to life as a successful on-camera film and television actor and as an acting teacher/coach in Los Angeles and the southeast. She is a proud member of The Television Academy and SAG-AFTRA. Kimberly is best known for her recurring role in all six seasons of the hit ABC comedy Fresh Off The Boat.
Some of Kimberly’s notable film work includes James Franco's In Dubious Battle, The Bachelors with Oscar winner Jk Simmons, and more! As a small business co-owner of the noted acting school ACTORSITE (a staple in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles), Kimberly has been an acting teacher & coach to kid, teen, and adult actors since 2000. Check out Actorsite: https://www.actorsite.com/Check out Kimberly Crandall on IMDB, Instagram and TikTok!
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Episode Transcript
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(00:09):
Hey everyone, welcome back to another episode of the Hello
Spring podcast where we explore creativity, storytelling, and
the people who bring dreams to life.
Today's guest is someone who's done exactly just that, both on
screen and behind the scenes. With over 25 years in the
entertainment industry, KimberlyCrandall is a powerhouse and
acclaimed television and film actor, a beloved acting coach,
(00:32):
and a guiding light for performers of all ages.
You might recognize her from hermemorable recurring role on all
six seasons of Fresh Off the Boat, or from her appearances on
shows like Scandal, Criminal Minds, ER, Gossip Girl, and so
many more. But Kimberly's impact does not
stop with her acting resume. As one of the Co owners and head
coach of Actorsite, a cornerstone of the Los Angeles
(00:54):
acting community, she's trained everyone from wide eyed
beginners to Broadway stars to Marvel superheroes.
Her approach? Empowering actors to step fully
into their craft with confidence, curiosity and joy.
Whether she's working with students across the US, Canada,
Australia or Europe, or coachingone-on-one from her home studio,
(01:15):
Kimberly is all about helping people find their spark and
trust their voice in this wild world of showbiz.
In today's conversation, we're diving into our incredible
career journey, behind the scenes, stories from set, and
the heart behind her teaching. Plus, we'll talk about building
a career that lasts from the highs and the lows of being an
actor in 2025 and all that fun jazz.
(01:37):
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for a
very impactful and inspiring chat.
With Kimberly Crandall because your spotlight, it's awaiting.
So let's go and let's get into it.
Hello Kimberly, welcome to the Hello Spring podcast.
I hope you're doing well today. How are things going?
With you, I'm having such a great day.
(01:58):
Thanks for having me. Exciting to be here with you.
Yeah, thank you for accepting mymy request to be on my podcast.
I've been a big fan of yours fora very long time.
And you are my coach and you arewonderful.
You are just talented and just seeing your work on like on the
big screen, in theaters, on TV, it's just absolutely amazing.
(02:22):
Oh, you're so sweet. You're welcome anytime like you
are just out here healing the game and doing what you got to
do you're. So sweet.
No, you, you need to be the president of my fan club now.
Oh yes, I sign me up. I I will be right there, but for
(02:43):
anyone that is new to the podcast and does not know who
Kimberly Crandall is, would you be happy to share who you are
and what you do? Oh my gosh, yes.
Well, hello everybody. I am Kimberly Crandall.
I am an actor and I'm also an Anand a coach.
As as you heard, I'm AI work with actors of all ages, kids,
(03:04):
teens and adults. So that is what I do.
I'm an actor and I'm an acting coach.
Woo Hoo. Nice.
Yes, yes, you have, you are an actor and you're an acting coach
and you they, you do a phenomenal job on it as well.
So based off of what I know, youhave been in this industry for
(03:25):
the past 25 years and that is a long time.
You've seen the highs and the lows of the industry for the
past over the past two decades. And I honestly want to know,
like, what first drew you to acting like what was like kept
you passionate over the past twodecades to keep going?
Yeah, I, I think well, and I, I've, I've been coaching for 25
(03:48):
years, but I've actually been anactor longer since I was a kid.
And it was like it, it really started when I was young.
My, my mother and my grandmotherwould take me to different
theater shows, you know, just like regular theater.
And I was just kind of enamored as a young child.
And I remember when I was probably about maybe 10 years
(04:11):
old, 10 or 11, this, this girl named Kira Troutman.
If you're out there, Kira, reachout.
She moved into my little small California town and we became
fast friends. And she had been in the play
Annie. And it was like, oh, she's like
an actress. We became, we became fast
friends and then started doing all the school plays and the
neighborhood plays and all that stuff.
(04:32):
So it really started back when Iwas a kid.
And then I myself started in thetheater as I like after, you
know, through high school and after high school and whatnot.
And then then eventually, you know, moved to Los Angeles and
went in, you know, full hog for the, like, TV film world.
Right, right. Yeah, yeah.
(04:53):
And that's really cool. Do you ever see yourself ever
going back to the theater and trying that out again?
You know, it would be so fun. It's like it, it's a totally
different world. And it, it, it's, it's tricky
because for the theater, you know, there's like several
months of rehearsal and then depending on how long the run
(05:14):
is, it's like a big chunk of your, of your time.
And when you're auditioning for TV and film, you you don't
really have the availability to just like book out.
I mean, you could if you wanted to, but it's like you have to be
available for something if you book ATV show and they want you
there next week. So it's a little tricky.
So I would love to do it though.I mean, I suppose every actor
(05:35):
would love to be on Broadway oneday.
I've had students on Broadway, but that would be like a thrill
or even just, you know. Yeah, I suppose.
Yes. The answer to the question is
yes. I would love to work in the
theater again. It's a lot of it's a lot of fun.
It is a lot of fun. I I grew up, you know, loving
the theater musicals. It's been like my favorite time
to just either see one or be in one.
(05:58):
And I would love to go back to the theater one day.
Yeah, just to see how it is. Yeah, the theater is a blast.
It is. So the other question I wanted
to ask you, So you have been in this industry for a very long
time and honestly, how have you been like?
How have you seen the acting industry evolve since you began?
(06:19):
Oh my gosh, so many things have changed and so many things are
exactly the same. Well, one thing is is kind of a
small thing, but what maybe it'sdone a full circle like the
headshots that people use. They used to be in black and
white. There weren't color the photos
and it was interesting for redheads because you couldn't
(06:40):
tell by looking at a black and white photo what color hair.
Somebody you know what color hair they had, if they had brown
hair or like mine was like strawberry blonde.
Now I'm like full on red. Now everything is color, which
is lovely because then you can get all the dimension of people.
But kind of like since COVID, everything is self tape
(07:01):
auditions now for the most part,there are, there's a lot of
commercial productions that havepeople do in person auditions.
And every once in a while there might be an in person call back
like for ATV show or movie. But for the most part,
everything is self tape, which really means that more people
have opportunities if they don'tlive in the mainstream markets
like LA, New York City, Chicago.But that also means the
(07:24):
competition is even stiffer because casting can request more
tapes than in the past. Like if if they were doing an in
person session, you know, they can only see a certain amount of
people in a day. They only have so much time.
But people are sending in self tapes.
They tend to ask for more than they used to.
So it's kind of a it's it's a good thing, but it's also like
(07:45):
you got to be on your game. You know what I mean?
Right. Yeah.
That's where coaching comes in. This is so true.
Yes, like with the industry changing so much and always
evolving like every second of every day, it can be so
overwhelming. But I've been in this industry
(08:06):
for not that long and I've only been understanding through the
world of self tapes. Do you enjoy doing self tapes
over like what it was before? You know, I am one of those
actors that loves to do a self tape because I tend to be a
perfectionist and I I always like to be able to do it as many
(08:27):
times as I need to until it's exactly the way I want it to be.
Granted, it's it's certainly nice to meet casting in person
and you know, they can give you a redirect on the spot or
whatnot. But even even prior to COVID
where everything kind of changed, if you were, you know,
like say on location filming something and you got an
audition, they would let you send in a self tape.
(08:49):
So it's not like this is a totally new world of self tape.
But I always love, I would always prefer to do a self tape
than to, to be live on the spot and have one shot at it.
You know, I want to be able to do it again if I need to or play
around or whatever. So what about you?
Do you are you liking the self tape world even though that's
kind of what you know? Tape world.
It's my favorite thing to do, I think.
(09:11):
I guess it's coming from like a video editing video, just
anything background for the pastdecade.
I I thoroughly enjoy being able to set up my my backdrop, get my
audio all correct, my lights andthings.
And then of course, do it over and over and over until I feel
like I'm comfortable enough withit.
Especially it allows me to practice a little bit more and
(09:33):
be like more specific with my choices.
So it's like that's I. I do love sell tapes.
Yeah, I love that. And, and I'll, I'll be honest,
some like like today I had, I was telling you earlier, I had
two, two auditions that I taped.I have one more to go.
And I, my fiance reads with me and I was like I said to him,
I'm not, I don't know if I'm exactly ready.
(09:53):
Be patient with me. And I like got in like 2 takes
and I was like, oh, I think I'm happy with that.
Let's just move on. So sometimes you don't have to
do 10 takes and sometimes you do, you know, it just depends.
It depends on the day I guess. Yeah, that's true.
That's true. Like how do you keep your craft
like fresh and inspired after somany years of like going into
(10:13):
casting in person and like now doing self tapes?
Like how do you it's like remaininspired?
Yeah, You know, it's because of you.
I, it's because of you. I'm really lucky to work with
actors of all ages, whether it'slike kids and teens and adults
as an, as an acting coach. And I and I also do career
consultation. It's like my day job, you know,
(10:36):
some actors are waiters and waitresses or other types of
things. And I get to stay in the loop of
like everything Hollywood and entertainment industry.
And because of that, like even when I'm not auditioning myself,
I'm literally reading and breaking down scripts and
characters every single week. So I'm never out of practice.
(10:56):
It's it's a win win. I'm helping others but it's also
I'm getting help out of it as well.
That's good. I think we all learn from each
other day in and day out, and weall can just kind of utilize
that in our own craft. Also true.
So true, Yes. So you have done a lot of films
and a lot of TV and you've worked alongside like James
(11:18):
Franco, JK Simmons, Jeremy Ironsand like you've done a lot and
like, what are some of your favorite memories on like, being
on set, especially like with James Franco?
Oh yeah, that was a that was a blast.
You know, James Franco is a hoot.
And that in that film I it was called The Dubious Battle and it
(11:42):
was it was James, he was starring in it and he was
directing it. But there was it was like an, an
All Star cast, like Selena Gomezwas in it and Josh Hutcherson
and Bryan Cranston. I mean, there were so many
people. And The funny thing about that
is I had auditioned on self tape.
By the way, I did a self tape for this and it was a small
(12:06):
role. It was like maybe one or two
lines. And I booked it.
Woo Hoo. It was so exciting.
And about two or three weeks before I was going to go shoot,
my agent called and she said that the casting director and
James had called her like on a speaker call.
And they said that James was talking, I guess.
(12:26):
And he said that there was a larger part and another actress
had fallen out. And he thought that I could do
it and was, would I do it? And it was like, Oh no, of
course I'll do it. And so I really got upgraded
into this big part where I was there for like two or three
weeks and it was a blast. But then Hollywood has a way of
(12:50):
having a life of its own, not because of like a bad
performance, but just timing andother issues with script.
My my big scenes all got cut. Oh no.
So I was in this little part, I got upgraded to this big huge
part. And then it ended up like mostly
on the on the cutting room floor.
But that's just like a Hollywoodtale.
I always tell people, you know, you don't.
You haven't really made it untilyou get cut out of something,
(13:16):
you know what I mean? Yeah, but that's still really
amazing that you got to work with this All Star cast and be
able to be on set and be there for like about two to three
weeks. And it's just like when you
first get on set, you take it all in, you see the environment,
the people, the sounds, and it'slike, wow, I'm actually really
(13:38):
here. Like did you have that same
moment? Oh gosh, I have that moment
every time I'm on set, no matterwhere I am.
Or like if if you're lucky enough to be able to go onto any
of the studio lots, like in Atlanta or in Los Angeles or New
York, it's kind of like like it feels magical, like you walk
through the studio gates and it's just like there's fairy
(13:58):
dust all over it. It just feels like a magical
experience. And I mean, being on set is it's
like the best thing ever. I think it's like what keeps
actors going in between their dry spells?
They just remember those moments, you know what I mean?
It's just, it's like the best thing ever.
When the day's over, you're justlike, oh, you don't want it to
end, you know? You know you've had that
(14:20):
experience. Oh yeah, definitely.
Being on Chicago Fire for the very first time, I'm like, this
feels like a dream, but I'm hereand it's real and I'm alive and
it's just like it's just like blown away.
And it when it comes to acting, there can be a lot of highs and
a lot of lows, especially being in this industry for a long
(14:41):
time. Like what are what have been
some like the big challenges like sustaining this long term
acting career? You know, I think I think the
hardest part is probably just like not knowing when your next
job is going to come, You know, will I ever work again
mentality, You know, even even like people who win Oscars that,
you know, I've heard them interviewed later and they're
(15:03):
like, I don't know if I'll ever work again.
And it's like what even they feel that at their level.
So it's like you, you, you have to kind of realize that
rejection isn't really about youand just learn what keeps you as
an individual motivated and inspired because it's going to
(15:23):
be a little bit different for everybody.
And I just, I love storytelling.I can't imagine a world without
it. You know, I'm constantly telling
stories, whether it's on screen or to, you know, my friends or
to my clients. And it's just, it's just kind of
it's what keeps me going. Yeah, I think that's what we
have to always have, like have acommunity around us to keep us
(15:46):
motivated. And these dark times can be
scary, but when you have those like minded, trustworthy friends
and people that you can count on, it's like you don't feel
alone in all. Of this, Oh for sure, for sure.
Especially like it keeps your like your mental space so much
more clear when you have those people to like who can relate
(16:06):
and you don't have to like worryall the time.
Well, and just talking to your friends and peers and other
actors and stuff, you, you realize you're not alone.
You know, everybody exactly. And, and it could be like they
might not be having the dry spell that you're having at the
moment that you're talking to them, but they have at some
point. And so they can relate and it's
(16:28):
just, it's like there's no rhymeor reason to when things, you
know, when bookings come in, like sometimes they'll be a year
or two before I'm on set again. And then sometimes I'll do like
two or three TV shows in a matter of a few months.
There's just like there's no rhyme or reason to it.
And it's just it's sort of cyclical and kind of comes and
goes and waves. So it's just like making sure in
(16:50):
the in between times that you'rejust still feeling fulfilled.
You know what I mean? Right.
So you just don't feel like you're like a shriveled up
Raisin. That's right.
That's true. No, no, no.
So this is something that I've always wanted to like, learn
more about because there's this,there was ATV show called Fresh
Off the Boat that has, I feel ittook the world by storm.
(17:14):
There was drama in there. There was comedy.
There were some happy moments, sad moments, it was just all
over the place but in a good waythat you got to be on that TV
show for six seasons as a recurring Co star, which is so
cool and something that people don't know is like Co stars.
(17:35):
At least what you have told me is that it's 5 lines or under,
but you play a very significant role in the episode.
In the episode, yeah, yeah, I'm playing this character named
Lisa. She's one of the kind of
neighborhood ladies and yeah, Fresh Off the Boat was amazing.
It was such an amazing experience and it was just
(17:56):
always every, every time I wouldget to go on set.
It was just a blast. You know what I mean?
Hard work. It's like comedies.
This is single camera comedy, sothey shoot it like a film.
So you know, there's good 1214 hour days, what not?
But it's just like when you're working on a comedy, everybody's
having fun. Yeah, you know what I mean?
(18:17):
So it's like it's a blast to be able to go in to work on a
comedy. It was like, it was wonderful.
And everybody on set was like the cast, the crew, everybody
was phenomenal. And seeing those, those boys
grow up, they, they were so small and teeny.
In the pilot, they were just teeny.
And and then by the end, like onthe finale episode, they were
(18:38):
like all taller than me. It's crazy.
All three of them, they were like taller than me.
It's like, Oh my God, you guys grew like Weeds, you know?
People grow up so fast, it's crazy.
Like what are they feeding the kids these days?
That's so funny. Something in the Starbucks?
I know, crazy. So walk us through like the
(18:59):
moment you first got the call that you booked fresh off the
boat, like what was the day like?
Oh gosh, the day I booked I don't even remember.
Is that crazy? It's like I don't remember the
day I booked. I am so.
Crazy because it was just like the audition itself was just
like another audition. You know, I went in, met the
(19:20):
cast, you know, made them laugh,which is always a good thing.
It was put on tape. Interesting.
So the whole see, that's the thing about the self tape thing
is like the taping aspect isn't a new thing.
So it used to be before COVID, for the most part, you would go
into an audition at the casting director's office and they would
(19:41):
tape you, they would put you on tape.
Then they would send those tapesto, to the producers.
Or there might be like an in person producer session and
some, but sometimes you just getbooked directly from the tape.
So it's just, I know that's off track.
What you're asking. I, I, I do recall though how
exciting it was the first day I got to go onto the Fox lot prior
(20:03):
to filming the pilot. So they had booked me and you
know, I went in for like a wardrobe fitting and a
rollerblade test. In the pilot episode, the
neighborhood ladies had to rollerblade and they booked us
all before finding out if any ofus could rollerblade.
And so each one of us had to go there and put these rollerblades
(20:26):
on and like rollerblade the parking lot of the Fox lot and
like we're videoing us on their phone.
And we ended up only rollerblading in that one
episode. That's so crazy.
That's all you really need. Then the very.
First one, hey, it worked, you know so.
Yeah. So you were a one time role that
(20:48):
led on into a reoccurring costarfor like over six seasons.
Like what was that transition like?
Yeah, it's interesting. I did a handful of episodes from
that first pilot all the way through to the final episode.
And each season we would all be like anxiously waiting to see if
the show got picked up, you know, the series regulars and
(21:11):
the recurring characters. You know, we didn't know.
We would never know until it like, would you know you until
you find out? And it was everyone was just so
great. Everybody was so great there.
I made a really close friend andone of the other gals, this
awesome actress named Colleen Ryan.
She's awesome. The kids were amazing.
Constance Wu, she played the mother.
She was so fun and Randall Park,I just have to say Randall Park
(21:34):
played the dad. He is just like a class act,
just the best. He was phenomenal and it's like
you, you turn your TV on or you go to the movies.
He's everywhere it. Really is.
Him and JK Simmons, they are just constantly working better.
Never stop. Working, it's crazy.
I'm like, wait, I've like I've seen you in this, but then
(21:55):
you're also in that. I'm like how how you do all that
and like stay sane. Yeah, right.
It's. Like they're just everywhere.
They have clones. They're cloned maybe.
I believe it. I believe it so.
For the past. Six seasons.
There have been so many memoriesthat you probably could name
(22:15):
them all, but like can you sharesome?
Like your favorite behind the scene moments or like a memory
from set that you remember? Yeah, I think the thing that
pops into my head is I can't remember the name of the
episode, but in one of the episodes the neighborhood ladies
for some reason think that Evan,the youngest son, is dying.
(22:37):
And so we're we keep bringing like casseroles over and stuff,
you know, like neighbor friendlyneighborhood people would do.
And Lisa, my character shows up and like rings the doorbell.
I've got some casserole or I don't know what.
I have macaroni. I don't know what it was.
And upon like, Evan opens the door and I'm totally shocked
that he's alive and well. And I can't remember what my
(23:01):
lines were, but I said my lines.But the crazy thing is, as I
called him Ian and I called him his real name.
I called him by his real name instead of his character's name.
It was so crazy. I was embarrassed.
Everybody laughed and obviously I just did it again, but it just
popped out. I was like, Oh yeah, and you're
looking so good or whatever. And they're like Kimberly, his
(23:24):
name is Evan. It was totally.
Crazy. I feel like it it happened so
often. I at least from what I hear it
happens quite a bit which is always funny.
And then you go back and like relisten to him like.
Did they say somebody else's name?
Like that's not the character's name, but they rolled with it
and it worked, right? In it just works.
You know, I this could be this could be like old wives tale,
(23:47):
but I feel like in the very first Star Wars that that
happened there was like AI don'tknow if you ever saw that
because that's a super old movie, but I did.
There's like there's a scene where they're all in some trash
compact or something. And I, I feel like I heard some
story that one of the characterscalled Carrie, but Carrie like
yelled out Carrie. I'll have to go back and watch.
(24:08):
I don't know. Well, honestly, that's really,
really cool. Like having to be on fresh off
the boat has probably, like changed, changed your life in a
way because the show was on for six seasons.
It's very iconic. Everyone knows, everyone loves
it. Like would you ever want to?
(24:29):
Like if you had to choose another TV show that is
currently on air to be whether aCo star, guest star, series
regular? Like what would you like?
What show would you want to be on?
Yeah, you know, I probably want to be on something like Last of
Us. So good, right?
So good. Funny tidbit, when the game
(24:53):
first the, the first game came out, I, I don't know the
character's name, but in the very beginning, I'm not spoiling
this came out years ago, but in the, in the very beginning, the
Joel, the dad in the very, very,very beginning, he had a
daughter who like you know, passes away.
And in the game, one of my students played that character
(25:15):
like the whole mocap thing and it was so exciting for her at
the time. Her name is Hana Hayes.
She's amazing. And I had remembered that.
Now, I didn't play the game, butjust recently, like literally 2
months ago, I was like, I got towatch the show.
I hadn't even watched it. It's been on for a couple years
now and I just binged it like, Idon't know, two months ago and
(25:37):
just devoured it. It was so good.
I love all that, all that kind of, you know, that, that the
whole genre of anything like, you know, sci-fi or horror, you
know, any of those types of things.
I'm totally, I'm totally into fantasy, all that stuff.
So I'd, I'd say Last of Us. That would be so great.
That would be really cool and it's going to be on for a while
(25:58):
because they, I think I heard ina podcast episode somewhere that
they plan to do like the next Last of Us game and add more
stuff to it to make it longer. Nice.
Three or Four Seasons, Fantastic.
Oh, I'm, I'm on board for that. I'm, I'm ready.
Bring it on. I'm I'm ready for you.
I will cheer you on until you get the audition and you book
(26:20):
the role. Yeah.
Well, you can book it too. We'll do it together.
Yeah, we'll keep you together. That's cool.
Awesome. I actually have worked with some
of my students that's. I mean, hey, it's crazy that.
Does work. I did an episode of Criminal
Minds and in the episode the thekiller was killing families, so
(26:42):
there was a bunch of kids in theepisode.
There were eight children in theepisode and five of those kids
were my students. Can you believe that?
I couldn't believe it. So the two that played my kids
were actually my students. And, and it was really fun on
set because, you know, they're used to me being the authority
figure, you know, like in class,telling them what to do and all
(27:02):
that stuff. And they'd come up and ask me
questions and I'd be like, you got to go ask the director or go
ask this person or go ask that. And I remember one one of the
boys, like, I sweetly like yelled at him like a mom I was
because I was like walking by his trailer and his trailer door
was open and his clothes were like all over the floor.
And I was like, hey, pick up those clothes and hang them up.
(27:26):
But it was really cool. I mean, five of my students in
the same show with me. That's crazy.
That's crazy. That's crazy.
I feel like there's another one too, but it's like escaping me.
I feel like there was a movie orsomething that I did.
Oh, oh, you know, I just realized I, I didn't have any
scenes with her. That's why.
Oh, and I'm just forgetting her name.
(27:46):
That's going to sound terrible. I was in this movie with JK
Simmons called The Bachelors, and one of my students was in
that as well. We didn't have scenes together,
though. Oh, I'm spacing out her name.
She's going to kill me. But it does happen.
It could happen. Yes it does.
It does. I feel like the Bachelors.
I haven't even seen that movie but I now want to go see it.
(28:09):
It's like a comedy romance movie.
It's on Prime Video so I have togo see it.
It's really good. I have to say.
It's I'm really proud of it. It's a, it's a beautiful movie.
You will cry and you will laugh.It's really, really good.
It's so, so good. I had to look up her name
because I was feeling like it's Cortana Turnbull.
I can't believe I because it's based on her name, Cortana
(28:31):
Turnbull. She is so talented.
Oh my gosh, she's amazing. You're going to love it.
It's a great movie. I highly recommend.
Oh yeah, I've actually will write that down and put that on
my list for sure. So you have mentioned that you
have coached a lot of actors, kids, teens, adults, like you've
done all of it. Tell us a little bit about the
(28:53):
creation and the vision behind your business actor site and
like what inspired you to start it?
Well, actually I didn't start after site.
I did start working there in theyear 2000, so long ago as a
teacher and I, I helped grow it.I helped nurture it and turn it
(29:13):
into, you know, what it eventually became and is now.
But originally I was just working with the in the kid and
teen division. And then I started working with
the adults. But after site was founded by a
wonderful man named JP Turnbull like in the 90s and sadly he
passed in 2020 of COVID and we we miss him so much.
(29:37):
He was just a light in this world and an amazing person and
mentor to me and so many others.And but about actors that, you
know, I had helped build it and I honestly couldn't stand the
thought of someone else coming in and kind of goofing it up
once he had passed. And so my business partner,
Amber Bohack and I bought the business and we're just both so
(29:59):
grateful that we get to keep J PS Legacy alive.
And we're celebrating our five year anniversary next month of
having taken it over. So it's pretty cool.
Oh, that's so nice. I like that.
Oh man, I like when I first discovered actor side I was
like, wow, this is like a reallycool place.
(30:21):
Like everything was virtual, which I felt was so nice because
driving back and forth it can bea lot.
But I like that it's now open toeveryone, whether it's
voiceover, audiobooks, commercial comedy, drama, the
list goes on and on and on. And you have have helped so many
actors around the world who havebeen in major films, major TV
(30:45):
shows, commercials, even. And it's honestly really
inspiring to see the impact thatyou all have.
Like you all bring the sense of,of care and the sense of
knowledge that you all have had for the for like this past like
2 decades. And it's so nice to see how not
(31:10):
only we can learn, but we can apply it to our craft and keep
going forward. So you have definitely taught a
lot of different kids and adopt A lot of different teens and
adults. What are some of your proud
success stories or like memorable moments like working
with actors through Actor Sight?Oh, gosh, there's so many.
(31:31):
There's so, so, so many. I mean, you're, I mean, as you
said, you know, over the past 25years that I've been doing this,
literally not a single week goesby where I don't see one of my
students, whether it's like a private coaching client or
someone from group classes, you know, in a commercial or TV
(31:51):
series regular, you know, like on Netflix or prime time, you
know, ABCABCCBS, whatever it is Fox in a guest star, a Co star
or big like giant movies, Marvelmovies, like everything
Broadway, everything in between,you name it.
So it's so, so much so, in fact,that whenever I'm like home
(32:12):
watching TV and I see somebody, I'm like, hey, there's so and so
one of my students that my family is like, yeah, yeah,
another one. We know they're like so over it
because I literally say it all the time.
They're just like, yeah, so sorry, sorry, my students, my
family doesn't give a hoot, but I am like, woohoo, you know,
cheering. I just love helping actors get
(32:34):
out of their own way and like, live up to their potential and
just like live the dream, you know, live that dream that they
have. And I mean, as you know, I, I
coach actors for specific, specific auditions, but I also
work in private training. And a lot of actors prefer
private training to group classes.
There are certainly benefits from both.
You know, in Group settings, notonly do you get the opportunity
(32:56):
to meet fellow artists and learnfrom watching what they do and
how they respond to redirects and whatnot, but in private
training sessions, that's where it really gets juicy as you've
experienced yourself, because you get an entire session
dedicated just to you and exactly what you need to like up
level and grow as opposed to like maybe your 5 minute turn
(33:16):
during a group class. It could be really powerful.
But some some actors, you know, prefer group settings, some like
privates. But you said when you came into
actor site it was all virtual. We we're virtual, which we are
now. So like prior to COVID, we used
to have a studio space in Los Angeles, but then COVID happened
and we went completely virtual and now we just strictly only
(33:38):
virtual. It's been amazing though,
because we can work with actors literally all over the world.
The majority are in America, butquite often we have
international students all the time.
Last month I had an actor from Italy in one class, and just
this past weekend I had a lovelyyoung actress from Botswana in
South Africa in another class. And so it's just great that the
(34:01):
reach has just literally gone all over the world.
It's crazy. Yeah, I find, like everyone
wants to be an actor or some type of creative in that same
realm, whether it's voice over, on screen, commercial theater,
audiobooks, whatever it might be.
Everyone gets inspired by someone that they look up to and
(34:23):
they want to like, learn. How did they do all of that?
And how can I also do that too and like keep it for the rest of
my life? Whether I stay an actor for 10
years and then do something else, I still have that
knowledge and that craft that I could apply to my next career
down the line. And I see a lot of actors come
(34:45):
through. I like online, I just see a lot
of talk. And I watch actors on actors
from Variety magazine, which is like a great, great series to
watch. If anyone has ever not likes not
seen it, you have to watch it. Trust me, you'll learn a lot.
But with actors, I when I was like coming through, I didn't
(35:06):
know anything. Like I know I knew a little bit
just by doing my own research, but I wanted to actually learn
from someone who was in the business, someone who was
working constantly and actually knew what they were talking
about. And I find actors I just like a
friendly, like it's like a home away from home.
For actors. Yeah, yeah, it's, it's, it's
(35:28):
just a family. It's such a family.
And, you know, we're all workingactors that work at actor sites.
So it's like we're, you know, we're not just giving you our
experience from working as coaches and teachers, but also
our experience being on set and auditioning, you know, just like
just like all the actors. So it's like you're getting kind
(35:48):
of A2 fold experience, which I think is really awesome.
It's really great. It's interesting how you're
saying like everyone wants to bean actor and I I think it's true
to a certain extent. You know, I mean, there's some
people that are super shy and they're like, Oh my God, I could
never do what you do. But there's like a lot of people
that aren't like working for it as hard as they're wishing for
(36:09):
it. You know, it is hard work.
There is a lot of, you know, blood, sweat and tears and time
and energy that you have to put into it.
And I think a lot of times people just see like the
limelight, you know, the red carpets and the award shows and
all that fancy part. And it's like that's the kind of
icing or maybe even just the cherry.
But everything else that makes that cake, you know, that's,
(36:32):
that's the real stuff. It definitely is, yes.
So I'm glad that you actually mentioned that.
Like when it comes to be an actor, you can't just like flip
on a camera and do your lines and like, that's it, like.
That's not how. That works.
There's a lot that goes into it.You have to like train.
You got to understand what you're doing.
You got to have very like specific goals and understand
(36:55):
like your character day in, day out.
Basically, kind of like basically taking your character
and making it yourself. So how do you like approach
preparing for like a new role? How does like how has your
process changed over the years or has it stayed the same?
You know, it's funny. It's like sometimes I have to
(37:18):
remind myself what I teach my students because I get caught up
and I'm busy with life. An audition pops in and my
instinct might just be to do some quick prep and then I'm
like, no, wait, stop. I got to give this the focus and
attention it deserves. You know, say practice what you
preach can really just today I was telling you I was doing
these auditions and I had three,I have 3 auditions that I had to
(37:40):
do today. I've done two of them and, and I
knew I was doing this with you and I have some other stuff.
I have a class later and some coachings and I was like
scrambling a little bit and I was feeling under the gun, like
with time pressures and almost like cut myself short.
And then I was like, wait, girl,what?
Hold on, Do it right? And I didn't want to rush it
(38:00):
just to get them done. And so I just really focused on
the ones that were due first, the ones that had the earlier
deadlines and got two of them done.
I have one more to take, but it's like there's a whole
process, you know, because we'veworked on this, there's like a
whole scene breakdown, characteranalysis.
It's it's not of course, learning the lines, but it's not
(38:22):
even about the lines. You know, it's about all that
other, like you said, kind of digging into a persons
perspective and what makes them tick and why do they react the
way they're reacting, reacting and you know, what are their
obstacles and what are they trying to achieve and what's,
you know, all that juicy stuff. There's more.
There's a lot to it. And the more you dig into that,
(38:42):
the meatier it is. It's more interesting to play.
It's more interesting to watch for the viewers, the audience.
And you know, it's like all about storytelling, but you
know, you don't want to just tell a vanilla story.
Right. Right.
Nothing wrong with. Vanilla, but right.
Exactly. I, I think that's why like TV
(39:02):
has gone on for for so many years as I feel like it's been
on forever, honestly. And I think what like like the
light bulb like switched like turned on for me, it's like,
wow, this story's really, reallygood.
They know what they're talking about.
They know what they're doing andit makes me believe them
(39:24):
sometimes. I think sometimes actors are
like, like their characters are real people and I'm like, you're
doing something really good. Like for example, Gilmore Girls.
I love that TV show. It's honestly the best TV show.
I'm rewatching it right now. Lorelai and Rory, their family
dynamic, Emily Richard like whole cast and Paris like
(39:48):
they're it's just when you have a good cast that blends so well
that you forget that they're acting, that's when I I I think
I feel it's it was made like just for them and it's it's like
basically kind of like a realityTV show, but in a certain way
(40:08):
you. Know, I think sometimes not, not
for all shows, but sometimes especially for longer running
series as the show kind of takesoff, like in the first season,
the writers get to know the actors and like they're kind of
idiosyncrasies and their personalities and they sort of
start writing for the actor, youknow, you know what I mean?
(40:31):
So sometimes it's exactly what you're saying, you know, they
are bringing kind of some littlepiece of themselves to it.
But then there are times when the actors are playing total
characters that are have nothingto do with them, that are
nothing like, you know, some killer or some, you know, some
just something totally differentand unique.
But when you can watch performances where you can see
(40:52):
the actors, they're they're living it as opposed to like
performing it, it really draws you in.
At least it draws me in more. Oh, it definitely draws me in
for play more Grey's Anatomy, how to get what was murder
scandal, ER, like there's just so many good things about TV and
(41:13):
movies that and even theater just it really makes you think
differently and like you just like that.
Like when did like, like who wasyour hurt?
Like the person that you looked up to as an actor that I would
love to be in this business. That's such a good one.
(41:34):
You know, I always feel like that, like when I was younger,
like in my 20s, that I wanted tobe like Sandra Bullock, but it
was because, I mean, she's so lovely and super talented and,
you know, Oscar winner. But it I what I like about her
is that she does comedies and she does drama.
(41:57):
She does a little bit of both and, and not all actors do.
Some of them, you know, kind of steer, stick to their lane or
whatever. A lot of them do.
But I just always loved that about her career and just was
like, oh, I would love to followthat kind of path just because
it's like in my house, we're always laughing and goofing off
in the house. I just love all things comedy.
But you know, I can also yank out a tear when needed.
(42:21):
And I love diving into really like emotional vulnerable
pieces. My mom always says, you know, I
don't like seeing you die on TV so much.
I tend to die on TVA lot. Like, sorry, not sorry, mom.
I can't help what I book. Hey.
Yeah, yeah. Oh my goodness.
No, honestly, it's definitely very true.
(42:41):
Like my, my family and I, we love, we love everything, but I
think we learn more towards likethe drama sometimes.
But we do love a good comedy every once in a while.
It's always my thing. Like I grew up on Disney and
Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.Those were like my happy joy,
joy moments. And then I really got into the
(43:02):
nitty gritty of the shows. I'm like, oh, wow, things are
getting a little bit crazy around here.
Let me sit down and invest all of my life in this.
Yeah, yeah. You can't help but like, just
binge watch a show when you divein, like, or you get an audition
for a show that maybe you haven't seen.
So you're like, OK, I'm going towatch an episode.
And then it's like the weekend has gone by and you've watched
(43:23):
like 30 episodes. Yeah, you know.
What I mean, but wait, I want toknow who you who, who you've
looked up to. Like, do you have an actor or
actress that you've kind of looked up to them?
Oh, definitely Denzel Washington.
He is absolutely phenomenal. I've watched almost all of his
(43:43):
films and I'm still going through every single thing on
his list. And he has.
He still has more coming and just the way he holds himself
not only as an actor but as a person in on and off screen and
sometimes behind the camera. It's the way he approaches a
role and makes it personal, where it makes you feel
(44:07):
something, it makes you feel heard, seen, alive.
And there weren't really a lot of, at least for me, a person
from what I've I've seen, there weren't really a lot of black
males on television that had leading roles.
And it was always so hard to find them because he had to.
Like, it was like a needle in a haystack sometimes.
(44:29):
But now there's so many of them and it's so nice to see someone
who looks like me on the big screen and saying, hey, I can do
this too. If he can do it, so can I.
And that's literally all the thethat's all I literally needed is
like someone who looked like me saying that you can do this too.
I love that, but you have to do it for you.
(44:51):
I love that. And not for XY and Z reasons
here. Here's what I want to happen for
you. You'll book a movie with him.
Aw, that'd be so. Cool, yes, that would be a
dream. That'd be so cool.
Hey, honestly, I am working my butt off as much as possible to
achieve that goal. That's my next thing on my
(45:11):
bucket list. I usually make a little actors
bucket list every so often. It's coming up where five years
of doing all of this. It's time to make another five
year plan to see where things go.
Nice. I like it.
Yeah, so with like TV and film and just like just everything in
(45:34):
between, like, what do you prefer?
Like working in comedy, drama, Little Mix of both.
Yeah, I like both. I like to do both.
I mean, the, the a fun thing would be like a character that's
funny but also, you know, is dramatic.
I mean, that'd be lovely if it was even in the same role.
But it's like, it's kind of funny because it's like with
actors, unless you're making your own, you know, shows or
(45:58):
films or what not, we don't knowwhat we're going to book.
We don't, you know, I mean, certainly there are people that
are like, I only want to do one thing and that's fine.
But for the most part, you know,we're just, we just want to
work. So we don't know if the next
thing we book is going to be a comedy or a drama or a horror
film or whatever it it is. But it's like we just want to
work. But I like, I like doing all of
(46:22):
it. I think it's yeah, I like doing
all of it. I'm as a big big fat scaredy cat
watching like scary horror movies but I would love to be in
one. Oh yes, hello.
I mean they are making Scary movie.
I think Scary Movie six. Oh my gosh.
(46:43):
And that's like a combination oflike comedy and drama with like
the Wayne brothers. So I'm very excited to see how
that's going to go personally. But what I'm manifesting for you
is to definitely book a role as like, on the same side as Sandra
Bullock in the same film. That would be awesome.
That would. Be awesome.
(47:05):
That would be awesome. So you've worked with a lot of
different directors over the years and I think you learn from
a director each time that you golike, what's your method for
like adjusting to different directors, like style on set?
Because every director has theirown style of like filming and
doing things and directions likehow have you like adjusted?
(47:26):
Yeah, that's so true. Because some like work really
fast and some have you do the scene 20 times.
I I'd say I just try and listen and observe and go with the
flow. You know, I'm there to help them
tell the writer's story in the director's vision, right?
So I would say, too, I try not to be afraid to ask questions.
(47:51):
If I have any questions, I'm like, ask.
And I want to be shy. I always ask the makeup artists
when they're doing my makeup, what the vibe has been like with
the director that day or during that shoot, because they'll give
you all the juicy gossip. That's my tip.
Anybody out there? I'm always like, hey, how's the,
how's the, if it's like a director, I don't know, you
know, how's the director? Are they moving fast or slow or
(48:14):
whatever? And they'll tell you all the all
the good stuff. I've worked with some amazing
directors and some not so amazing directors.
I had a director once tell me, Kimberly, I want you to say the
words like they're cooking in your mouth.
Like, what the heck does that even mean?
I don't even know what that means.
It's very poetic, but I don't even know what that means.
(48:37):
Hey, I guess food or something, I don't know.
It's crazy. I.
Don't know. I don't know.
But like, honestly, what I find like directors, I've only worked
with a couple of directors in myshort time of being an actor in
this industry, but it's always like, so cool and how they work.
And it kind of makes you think, can I be a director too?
(48:58):
Like, yeah, you can. It's another form of
storytelling, but behind the camera.
For sure, for sure. There's a lot of actors that end
up directing for sure. Yeah.
And Speaking of actors, have there been any actors that
you've worked with that have taught you something like
profound or like unexpected? You know, I'm, I've had the
(49:21):
opportunity to work with some incredible actors, like
including many Oscar winners, which sounds all fancy, I know,
But sometimes, sometimes I'm like somebody pinch me.
I can't believe I'm here. But what sticks with me the most
wasn't really any deep philosophical thing, but it's
really just how chill they are, you know, or they were when like
(49:42):
working with them. So it's like these actors at the
top of their game. They're they're not obsessing
over perfection. They were just playing, you
know, they're present and they're like curious and alive
in the scene. And just being around that kind
of energy taught me to just loosen my grip because I am such
a total type A kind of girl. And it's just kind of, over the
(50:05):
years reminded me that the magicreally happens when you stop
gripping so hard and just live it, you know what I'm saying?
It's like, that was a huge shiftfor me, not trying to control
every moment. Now I'm still totally prepared,
but letting it unfold and just trusting that I've done the work
is is really freeing. And it's it's way more fun.
(50:25):
It's way more fun that way too. Oh yeah, definitely, 100%.
I agree. Yeah, well, it is time for a
very special thing that we do here on the podcast quite
frequently. It is a rapid fire round.
Rapid fire hit me. Hit me.
OK, so first roll you ever bought?
(50:48):
I booked a recurring role on thesoap opera Passions.
It's not on TV anymore, but The funny thing, my mom was like,
great, now does that mean I haveto watch a soap opera now?
I was like, Gee, thanks mom. Hey, you never know dream
director you would love to work with?
(51:08):
Taika Waititi hands down. I, I heard him speak in an
interview years ago and I just immediately was like, yes, this
is someone I want to collaboratewith.
I was like, this is it. I'm in.
He just, he creates these these like wild, funny, totally
offbeat worlds that still managed to like right hit you
right in the fields. You know, it's it's just like
(51:30):
this combo of like heart and ridiculousness that I would I
just would love to play in. I mean, come on, JoJo rabbit
amazing. And I loved the TV show
reservation dogs. And he doesn't love like Thor
Ragnarok. I mean, Tyka love Tyka.
Most underrated actor working today.
(51:54):
That's easy. The most underrated actor
working today is, I mean, obviously you.
Hello. Clearly underrated.
Let's get you a series regular already.
I mean, Chicago Fire. Awesome.
More of that coming in hot, please.
Please and thank you. Favorite book?
Oh, you know, oh, favorite. Well, right now, my favorite
(52:17):
book, the one I'm currently reading is called The 12 Week
Year by Brian Moran and Michael something, Michael Lennington,
Lexington, something like that. It's about compressing and like
breaking down your annual goals into shorter, more manageable
cycles. So basically, if you follow, if
you follow it properly, you'll get a year's worth of work done
(52:39):
in a 12 week cycle. I'm a go getter at heart.
It's the reason I'm reading it is because I'm, I'm working on
creating a digital course to help actors overcome their
nerves and like performance anxiety and stage right, that
kind of stuff. And I'm super excited about it.
I'm hoping it'll launch sometimethis fall.
I had been working on it last year and I, if you recall, I
(53:01):
fell last year last summer and Ibroke both of my ankles at the
same time. I'm alive and happy and dancing
now on my 2 feet. But recovering from that sort of
threw my schedule off a bit. And this book is really helping
me get organized so I can finally get this digital course
out to the world. I know so many actors of all
ages are going to benefit from it.
I'm super excited. Yes, and I cannot wait for that
(53:23):
to come out and I will be blasting it all over social
media when it does. This could.
Be cool. Another question is most used
acting tip you give to young actors?
You know, lately I seem to be reminding a lot of actors that
although you should always be memorized for auditions, even
when casting says you don't haveto be, because I feel like you
(53:46):
you are more free and can play more when you're you feel
confident about what you're saying.
But The thing is, I want actors to remember that it's not about
being memorized. It's about being memorable.
So sort of like an oxymoron to say, be memorized, but don't
worry about it. But it's true.
It's so true. The role that got away.
(54:10):
That's a good one. The role that got away.
Maybe I have the cop out answer of like what's meant for me will
find me. So none have gotten away.
Maybe it was just some other girl's lucky day.
No, that's lame. I would say honestly, I
auditioned for several roles on several seasons of Stranger
(54:31):
Things. That would have been a such a
cool thing. I didn't book any of those, but
that would have been so cool. I love that show.
That would have been a dream that would.
Have been so good. And the last and final rabbit
heart questions. One word to describe your acting
journey. Spicy.
(54:52):
Definitely not bland. Oh, that's not one word.
No, wait, let me change, let me change.
Twisty, not twisty. OK, that is where the plot will
twist to next. I like that.
That's that's a good one, Twisty.
I'll keep that in mind. Well, thank you, Kimberly
(55:13):
Crandall for coming on my podcast.
Hello Spring. It was really great to have you
on here. I cannot wait to see what you do
next, especially for Actorsite on screen.
Maybe one day on the theater, who knows.
Especially getting that next next role within the commercial
TV film series regular, manifesting series regular for
(55:35):
you, especially working aside Sandra Bullock.
Yes, indeed. Oh my gosh, thank you so much
for having me. This has been so much fun.
You're just always such a delight and smiling and every
room you walk into, you just light it up.
And I think that the best thing we could do is like work
together. Let's book something together
(55:57):
and get on set together. That would be so fun.
Yeah, that would be so much fun.Wishing you the best of luck
always and forever. Yay, thank you so much.
Take care. Yeah.
Thank you all so much. Thank you.
Thank you for coming to the podcast and I will see you next
time. Already friends, that was the
end of today's episode on Hello Spring with Kimberly Crandall
(56:19):
and I want to give a huge thank you to Kimberly for sharing not
only her incredible career highlights but also a heart for
empowering actors to believe in themselves and embrace in their
craft from sets of hit TV shows,the classroom.
Still with dreamers, Kimberly has reminded us that success
isn't just about landing the role.
It's about the courage to step into your own spotlight and keep
(56:40):
growing no matter where you are in your journey.
If you were inspired by today's this conversation, make sure to
follow and connect with Kimberlyon all the platforms, check out
after site and even maybe take aleap into the creative world
you've been dreaming about because besties, I was one of
you all. I'm still tapping into that
creative world and it's been so fun so far.
(57:02):
Until next time, keep creating, keep shining and remember your
story does matter and the world is waiting to see it.
My name is Steven Works and thishas been hello spring.
Make sure you go ahead and come right and subscribe wherever you
listen to your podcast and I will see you all next time.
Bye.
Hey everyone, welcome back to another episode of the Hello
Spring podcast where we explore creativity, storytelling, and
the people who bring dreams to life.
Today's guest is someone who's done exactly just that, both on
screen and behind the scenes. With over 25 years in the
entertainment industry, KimberlyCrandall is a powerhouse and
acclaimed television and film actor, a beloved acting coach,
(00:32):
and a guiding light for performers of all ages.
You might recognize her from hermemorable recurring role on all
six seasons of Fresh Off the Boat, or from her appearances on
shows like Scandal, Criminal Minds, ER, Gossip Girl, and so
many more. But Kimberly's impact does not
stop with her acting resume. As one of the Co owners and head
coach of Actorsite, a cornerstone of the Los Angeles
(00:54):
acting community, she's trained everyone from wide eyed
beginners to Broadway stars to Marvel superheroes.
Her approach? Empowering actors to step fully
into their craft with confidence, curiosity and joy.
Whether she's working with students across the US, Canada,
Australia or Europe, or coachingone-on-one from her home studio,
(01:15):
Kimberly is all about helping people find their spark and
trust their voice in this wild world of showbiz.
In today's conversation, we're diving into our incredible
career journey, behind the scenes, stories from set, and
the heart behind her teaching. Plus, we'll talk about building
a career that lasts from the highs and the lows of being an
actor in 2025 and all that fun jazz.
(01:37):
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for a
very impactful and inspiring chat.
With Kimberly Crandall because your spotlight, it's awaiting.
So let's go and let's get into it.
Hello Kimberly, welcome to the Hello Spring podcast.
I hope you're doing well today. How are things going?
With you, I'm having such a great day.
(01:58):
Thanks for having me. Exciting to be here with you.
Yeah, thank you for accepting mymy request to be on my podcast.
I've been a big fan of yours fora very long time.
And you are my coach and you arewonderful.
You are just talented and just seeing your work on like on the
big screen, in theaters, on TV, it's just absolutely amazing.
(02:22):
Oh, you're so sweet. You're welcome anytime like you
are just out here healing the game and doing what you got to
do you're. So sweet.
No, you, you need to be the president of my fan club now.
Oh yes, I sign me up. I I will be right there, but for
(02:43):
anyone that is new to the podcast and does not know who
Kimberly Crandall is, would you be happy to share who you are
and what you do? Oh my gosh, yes.
Well, hello everybody. I am Kimberly Crandall.
I am an actor and I'm also an Anand a coach.
As as you heard, I'm AI work with actors of all ages, kids,
(03:04):
teens and adults. So that is what I do.
I'm an actor and I'm an acting coach.
Woo Hoo. Nice.
Yes, yes, you have, you are an actor and you're an acting coach
and you they, you do a phenomenal job on it as well.
So based off of what I know, youhave been in this industry for
(03:25):
the past 25 years and that is a long time.
You've seen the highs and the lows of the industry for the
past over the past two decades. And I honestly want to know,
like, what first drew you to acting like what was like kept
you passionate over the past twodecades to keep going?
Yeah, I, I think well, and I, I've, I've been coaching for 25
(03:48):
years, but I've actually been anactor longer since I was a kid.
And it was like it, it really started when I was young.
My, my mother and my grandmotherwould take me to different
theater shows, you know, just like regular theater.
And I was just kind of enamored as a young child.
And I remember when I was probably about maybe 10 years
(04:11):
old, 10 or 11, this, this girl named Kira Troutman.
If you're out there, Kira, reachout.
She moved into my little small California town and we became
fast friends. And she had been in the play
Annie. And it was like, oh, she's like
an actress. We became, we became fast
friends and then started doing all the school plays and the
neighborhood plays and all that stuff.
(04:32):
So it really started back when Iwas a kid.
And then I myself started in thetheater as I like after, you
know, through high school and after high school and whatnot.
And then then eventually, you know, moved to Los Angeles and
went in, you know, full hog for the, like, TV film world.
Right, right. Yeah, yeah.
(04:53):
And that's really cool. Do you ever see yourself ever
going back to the theater and trying that out again?
You know, it would be so fun. It's like it, it's a totally
different world. And it, it, it's, it's tricky
because for the theater, you know, there's like several
months of rehearsal and then depending on how long the run
(05:14):
is, it's like a big chunk of your, of your time.
And when you're auditioning for TV and film, you you don't
really have the availability to just like book out.
I mean, you could if you wanted to, but it's like you have to be
available for something if you book ATV show and they want you
there next week. So it's a little tricky.
So I would love to do it though.I mean, I suppose every actor
(05:35):
would love to be on Broadway oneday.
I've had students on Broadway, but that would be like a thrill
or even just, you know. Yeah, I suppose.
Yes. The answer to the question is
yes. I would love to work in the
theater again. It's a lot of it's a lot of fun.
It is a lot of fun. I I grew up, you know, loving
the theater musicals. It's been like my favorite time
to just either see one or be in one.
(05:58):
And I would love to go back to the theater one day.
Yeah, just to see how it is. Yeah, the theater is a blast.
It is. So the other question I wanted
to ask you, So you have been in this industry for a very long
time and honestly, how have you been like?
How have you seen the acting industry evolve since you began?
(06:19):
Oh my gosh, so many things have changed and so many things are
exactly the same. Well, one thing is is kind of a
small thing, but what maybe it'sdone a full circle like the
headshots that people use. They used to be in black and
white. There weren't color the photos
and it was interesting for redheads because you couldn't
(06:40):
tell by looking at a black and white photo what color hair.
Somebody you know what color hair they had, if they had brown
hair or like mine was like strawberry blonde.
Now I'm like full on red. Now everything is color, which
is lovely because then you can get all the dimension of people.
But kind of like since COVID, everything is self tape
(07:01):
auditions now for the most part,there are, there's a lot of
commercial productions that havepeople do in person auditions.
And every once in a while there might be an in person call back
like for ATV show or movie. But for the most part,
everything is self tape, which really means that more people
have opportunities if they don'tlive in the mainstream markets
like LA, New York City, Chicago.But that also means the
(07:24):
competition is even stiffer because casting can request more
tapes than in the past. Like if if they were doing an in
person session, you know, they can only see a certain amount of
people in a day. They only have so much time.
But people are sending in self tapes.
They tend to ask for more than they used to.
So it's kind of a it's it's a good thing, but it's also like
(07:45):
you got to be on your game. You know what I mean?
Right. Yeah.
That's where coaching comes in. This is so true.
Yes, like with the industry changing so much and always
evolving like every second of every day, it can be so
overwhelming. But I've been in this industry
(08:06):
for not that long and I've only been understanding through the
world of self tapes. Do you enjoy doing self tapes
over like what it was before? You know, I am one of those
actors that loves to do a self tape because I tend to be a
perfectionist and I I always like to be able to do it as many
(08:27):
times as I need to until it's exactly the way I want it to be.
Granted, it's it's certainly nice to meet casting in person
and you know, they can give you a redirect on the spot or
whatnot. But even even prior to COVID
where everything kind of changed, if you were, you know,
like say on location filming something and you got an
audition, they would let you send in a self tape.
(08:49):
So it's not like this is a totally new world of self tape.
But I always love, I would always prefer to do a self tape
than to, to be live on the spot and have one shot at it.
You know, I want to be able to do it again if I need to or play
around or whatever. So what about you?
Do you are you liking the self tape world even though that's
kind of what you know? Tape world.
It's my favorite thing to do, I think.
(09:11):
I guess it's coming from like a video editing video, just
anything background for the pastdecade.
I I thoroughly enjoy being able to set up my my backdrop, get my
audio all correct, my lights andthings.
And then of course, do it over and over and over until I feel
like I'm comfortable enough withit.
Especially it allows me to practice a little bit more and
(09:33):
be like more specific with my choices.
So it's like that's I. I do love sell tapes.
Yeah, I love that. And, and I'll, I'll be honest,
some like like today I had, I was telling you earlier, I had
two, two auditions that I taped.I have one more to go.
And I, my fiance reads with me and I was like I said to him,
I'm not, I don't know if I'm exactly ready.
(09:53):
Be patient with me. And I like got in like 2 takes
and I was like, oh, I think I'm happy with that.
Let's just move on. So sometimes you don't have to
do 10 takes and sometimes you do, you know, it just depends.
It depends on the day I guess. Yeah, that's true.
That's true. Like how do you keep your craft
like fresh and inspired after somany years of like going into
(10:13):
casting in person and like now doing self tapes?
Like how do you it's like remaininspired?
Yeah, You know, it's because of you.
I, it's because of you. I'm really lucky to work with
actors of all ages, whether it'slike kids and teens and adults
as an, as an acting coach. And I and I also do career
consultation. It's like my day job, you know,
(10:36):
some actors are waiters and waitresses or other types of
things. And I get to stay in the loop of
like everything Hollywood and entertainment industry.
And because of that, like even when I'm not auditioning myself,
I'm literally reading and breaking down scripts and
characters every single week. So I'm never out of practice.
(10:56):
It's it's a win win. I'm helping others but it's also
I'm getting help out of it as well.
That's good. I think we all learn from each
other day in and day out, and weall can just kind of utilize
that in our own craft. Also true.
So true, Yes. So you have done a lot of films
and a lot of TV and you've worked alongside like James
(11:18):
Franco, JK Simmons, Jeremy Ironsand like you've done a lot and
like, what are some of your favorite memories on like, being
on set, especially like with James Franco?
Oh yeah, that was a that was a blast.
You know, James Franco is a hoot.
And that in that film I it was called The Dubious Battle and it
(11:42):
was it was James, he was starring in it and he was
directing it. But there was it was like an, an
All Star cast, like Selena Gomezwas in it and Josh Hutcherson
and Bryan Cranston. I mean, there were so many
people. And The funny thing about that
is I had auditioned on self tape.
By the way, I did a self tape for this and it was a small
(12:06):
role. It was like maybe one or two
lines. And I booked it.
Woo Hoo. It was so exciting.
And about two or three weeks before I was going to go shoot,
my agent called and she said that the casting director and
James had called her like on a speaker call.
And they said that James was talking, I guess.
(12:26):
And he said that there was a larger part and another actress
had fallen out. And he thought that I could do
it and was, would I do it? And it was like, Oh no, of
course I'll do it. And so I really got upgraded
into this big part where I was there for like two or three
weeks and it was a blast. But then Hollywood has a way of
(12:50):
having a life of its own, not because of like a bad
performance, but just timing andother issues with script.
My my big scenes all got cut. Oh no.
So I was in this little part, I got upgraded to this big huge
part. And then it ended up like mostly
on the on the cutting room floor.
But that's just like a Hollywoodtale.
I always tell people, you know, you don't.
You haven't really made it untilyou get cut out of something,
(13:16):
you know what I mean? Yeah, but that's still really
amazing that you got to work with this All Star cast and be
able to be on set and be there for like about two to three
weeks. And it's just like when you
first get on set, you take it all in, you see the environment,
the people, the sounds, and it'slike, wow, I'm actually really
(13:38):
here. Like did you have that same
moment? Oh gosh, I have that moment
every time I'm on set, no matterwhere I am.
Or like if if you're lucky enough to be able to go onto any
of the studio lots, like in Atlanta or in Los Angeles or New
York, it's kind of like like it feels magical, like you walk
through the studio gates and it's just like there's fairy
(13:58):
dust all over it. It just feels like a magical
experience. And I mean, being on set is it's
like the best thing ever. I think it's like what keeps
actors going in between their dry spells?
They just remember those moments, you know what I mean?
It's just, it's like the best thing ever.
When the day's over, you're justlike, oh, you don't want it to
end, you know? You know you've had that
(14:20):
experience. Oh yeah, definitely.
Being on Chicago Fire for the very first time, I'm like, this
feels like a dream, but I'm hereand it's real and I'm alive and
it's just like it's just like blown away.
And it when it comes to acting, there can be a lot of highs and
a lot of lows, especially being in this industry for a long
(14:41):
time. Like what are what have been
some like the big challenges like sustaining this long term
acting career? You know, I think I think the
hardest part is probably just like not knowing when your next
job is going to come, You know, will I ever work again
mentality, You know, even even like people who win Oscars that,
you know, I've heard them interviewed later and they're
(15:03):
like, I don't know if I'll ever work again.
And it's like what even they feel that at their level.
So it's like you, you, you have to kind of realize that
rejection isn't really about youand just learn what keeps you as
an individual motivated and inspired because it's going to
(15:23):
be a little bit different for everybody.
And I just, I love storytelling.I can't imagine a world without
it. You know, I'm constantly telling
stories, whether it's on screen or to, you know, my friends or
to my clients. And it's just, it's just kind of
it's what keeps me going. Yeah, I think that's what we
have to always have, like have acommunity around us to keep us
(15:46):
motivated. And these dark times can be
scary, but when you have those like minded, trustworthy friends
and people that you can count on, it's like you don't feel
alone in all. Of this, Oh for sure, for sure.
Especially like it keeps your like your mental space so much
more clear when you have those people to like who can relate
(16:06):
and you don't have to like worryall the time.
Well, and just talking to your friends and peers and other
actors and stuff, you, you realize you're not alone.
You know, everybody exactly. And, and it could be like they
might not be having the dry spell that you're having at the
moment that you're talking to them, but they have at some
point. And so they can relate and it's
(16:28):
just, it's like there's no rhymeor reason to when things, you
know, when bookings come in, like sometimes they'll be a year
or two before I'm on set again. And then sometimes I'll do like
two or three TV shows in a matter of a few months.
There's just like there's no rhyme or reason to it.
And it's just it's sort of cyclical and kind of comes and
goes and waves. So it's just like making sure in
(16:50):
the in between times that you'rejust still feeling fulfilled.
You know what I mean? Right.
So you just don't feel like you're like a shriveled up
Raisin. That's right.
That's true. No, no, no.
So this is something that I've always wanted to like, learn
more about because there's this,there was ATV show called Fresh
Off the Boat that has, I feel ittook the world by storm.
(17:14):
There was drama in there. There was comedy.
There were some happy moments, sad moments, it was just all
over the place but in a good waythat you got to be on that TV
show for six seasons as a recurring Co star, which is so
cool and something that people don't know is like Co stars.
(17:35):
At least what you have told me is that it's 5 lines or under,
but you play a very significant role in the episode.
In the episode, yeah, yeah, I'm playing this character named
Lisa. She's one of the kind of
neighborhood ladies and yeah, Fresh Off the Boat was amazing.
It was such an amazing experience and it was just
(17:56):
always every, every time I wouldget to go on set.
It was just a blast. You know what I mean?
Hard work. It's like comedies.
This is single camera comedy, sothey shoot it like a film.
So you know, there's good 1214 hour days, what not?
But it's just like when you're working on a comedy, everybody's
having fun. Yeah, you know what I mean?
(18:17):
So it's like it's a blast to be able to go in to work on a
comedy. It was like, it was wonderful.
And everybody on set was like the cast, the crew, everybody
was phenomenal. And seeing those, those boys
grow up, they, they were so small and teeny.
In the pilot, they were just teeny.
And and then by the end, like onthe finale episode, they were
(18:38):
like all taller than me. It's crazy.
All three of them, they were like taller than me.
It's like, Oh my God, you guys grew like Weeds, you know?
People grow up so fast, it's crazy.
Like what are they feeding the kids these days?
That's so funny. Something in the Starbucks?
I know, crazy. So walk us through like the
(18:59):
moment you first got the call that you booked fresh off the
boat, like what was the day like?
Oh gosh, the day I booked I don't even remember.
Is that crazy? It's like I don't remember the
day I booked. I am so.
Crazy because it was just like the audition itself was just
like another audition. You know, I went in, met the
(19:20):
cast, you know, made them laugh,which is always a good thing.
It was put on tape. Interesting.
So the whole see, that's the thing about the self tape thing
is like the taping aspect isn't a new thing.
So it used to be before COVID, for the most part, you would go
into an audition at the casting director's office and they would
(19:41):
tape you, they would put you on tape.
Then they would send those tapesto, to the producers.
Or there might be like an in person producer session and
some, but sometimes you just getbooked directly from the tape.
So it's just, I know that's off track.
What you're asking. I, I, I do recall though how
exciting it was the first day I got to go onto the Fox lot prior
(20:03):
to filming the pilot. So they had booked me and you
know, I went in for like a wardrobe fitting and a
rollerblade test. In the pilot episode, the
neighborhood ladies had to rollerblade and they booked us
all before finding out if any ofus could rollerblade.
And so each one of us had to go there and put these rollerblades
(20:26):
on and like rollerblade the parking lot of the Fox lot and
like we're videoing us on their phone.
And we ended up only rollerblading in that one
episode. That's so crazy.
That's all you really need. Then the very.
First one, hey, it worked, you know so.
Yeah. So you were a one time role that
(20:48):
led on into a reoccurring costarfor like over six seasons.
Like what was that transition like?
Yeah, it's interesting. I did a handful of episodes from
that first pilot all the way through to the final episode.
And each season we would all be like anxiously waiting to see if
the show got picked up, you know, the series regulars and
(21:11):
the recurring characters. You know, we didn't know.
We would never know until it like, would you know you until
you find out? And it was everyone was just so
great. Everybody was so great there.
I made a really close friend andone of the other gals, this
awesome actress named Colleen Ryan.
She's awesome. The kids were amazing.
Constance Wu, she played the mother.
She was so fun and Randall Park,I just have to say Randall Park
(21:34):
played the dad. He is just like a class act,
just the best. He was phenomenal and it's like
you, you turn your TV on or you go to the movies.
He's everywhere it. Really is.
Him and JK Simmons, they are just constantly working better.
Never stop. Working, it's crazy.
I'm like, wait, I've like I've seen you in this, but then
(21:55):
you're also in that. I'm like how how you do all that
and like stay sane. Yeah, right.
It's. Like they're just everywhere.
They have clones. They're cloned maybe.
I believe it. I believe it so.
For the past. Six seasons.
There have been so many memoriesthat you probably could name
(22:15):
them all, but like can you sharesome?
Like your favorite behind the scene moments or like a memory
from set that you remember? Yeah, I think the thing that
pops into my head is I can't remember the name of the
episode, but in one of the episodes the neighborhood ladies
for some reason think that Evan,the youngest son, is dying.
(22:37):
And so we're we keep bringing like casseroles over and stuff,
you know, like neighbor friendlyneighborhood people would do.
And Lisa, my character shows up and like rings the doorbell.
I've got some casserole or I don't know what.
I have macaroni. I don't know what it was.
And upon like, Evan opens the door and I'm totally shocked
that he's alive and well. And I can't remember what my
(23:01):
lines were, but I said my lines.But the crazy thing is, as I
called him Ian and I called him his real name.
I called him by his real name instead of his character's name.
It was so crazy. I was embarrassed.
Everybody laughed and obviously I just did it again, but it just
popped out. I was like, Oh yeah, and you're
looking so good or whatever. And they're like Kimberly, his
(23:24):
name is Evan. It was totally.
Crazy. I feel like it it happened so
often. I at least from what I hear it
happens quite a bit which is always funny.
And then you go back and like relisten to him like.
Did they say somebody else's name?
Like that's not the character's name, but they rolled with it
and it worked, right? In it just works.
You know, I this could be this could be like old wives tale,
(23:47):
but I feel like in the very first Star Wars that that
happened there was like AI don'tknow if you ever saw that
because that's a super old movie, but I did.
There's like there's a scene where they're all in some trash
compact or something. And I, I feel like I heard some
story that one of the characterscalled Carrie, but Carrie like
yelled out Carrie. I'll have to go back and watch.
(24:08):
I don't know. Well, honestly, that's really,
really cool. Like having to be on fresh off
the boat has probably, like changed, changed your life in a
way because the show was on for six seasons.
It's very iconic. Everyone knows, everyone loves
it. Like would you ever want to?
(24:29):
Like if you had to choose another TV show that is
currently on air to be whether aCo star, guest star, series
regular? Like what would you like?
What show would you want to be on?
Yeah, you know, I probably want to be on something like Last of
Us. So good, right?
So good. Funny tidbit, when the game
(24:53):
first the, the first game came out, I, I don't know the
character's name, but in the very beginning, I'm not spoiling
this came out years ago, but in the, in the very beginning, the
Joel, the dad in the very, very,very beginning, he had a
daughter who like you know, passes away.
And in the game, one of my students played that character
(25:15):
like the whole mocap thing and it was so exciting for her at
the time. Her name is Hana Hayes.
She's amazing. And I had remembered that.
Now, I didn't play the game, butjust recently, like literally 2
months ago, I was like, I got towatch the show.
I hadn't even watched it. It's been on for a couple years
now and I just binged it like, Idon't know, two months ago and
(25:37):
just devoured it. It was so good.
I love all that, all that kind of, you know, that, that the
whole genre of anything like, you know, sci-fi or horror, you
know, any of those types of things.
I'm totally, I'm totally into fantasy, all that stuff.
So I'd, I'd say Last of Us. That would be so great.
That would be really cool and it's going to be on for a while
(25:58):
because they, I think I heard ina podcast episode somewhere that
they plan to do like the next Last of Us game and add more
stuff to it to make it longer. Nice.
Three or Four Seasons, Fantastic.
Oh, I'm, I'm on board for that. I'm, I'm ready.
Bring it on. I'm I'm ready for you.
I will cheer you on until you get the audition and you book
(26:20):
the role. Yeah.
Well, you can book it too. We'll do it together.
Yeah, we'll keep you together. That's cool.
Awesome. I actually have worked with some
of my students that's. I mean, hey, it's crazy that.
Does work. I did an episode of Criminal
Minds and in the episode the thekiller was killing families, so
(26:42):
there was a bunch of kids in theepisode.
There were eight children in theepisode and five of those kids
were my students. Can you believe that?
I couldn't believe it. So the two that played my kids
were actually my students. And, and it was really fun on
set because, you know, they're used to me being the authority
figure, you know, like in class,telling them what to do and all
(27:02):
that stuff. And they'd come up and ask me
questions and I'd be like, you got to go ask the director or go
ask this person or go ask that. And I remember one one of the
boys, like, I sweetly like yelled at him like a mom I was
because I was like walking by his trailer and his trailer door
was open and his clothes were like all over the floor.
And I was like, hey, pick up those clothes and hang them up.
(27:26):
But it was really cool. I mean, five of my students in
the same show with me. That's crazy.
That's crazy. That's crazy.
I feel like there's another one too, but it's like escaping me.
I feel like there was a movie orsomething that I did.
Oh, oh, you know, I just realized I, I didn't have any
scenes with her. That's why.
Oh, and I'm just forgetting her name.
(27:46):
That's going to sound terrible. I was in this movie with JK
Simmons called The Bachelors, and one of my students was in
that as well. We didn't have scenes together,
though. Oh, I'm spacing out her name.
She's going to kill me. But it does happen.
It could happen. Yes it does.
It does. I feel like the Bachelors.
I haven't even seen that movie but I now want to go see it.
(28:09):
It's like a comedy romance movie.
It's on Prime Video so I have togo see it.
It's really good. I have to say.
It's I'm really proud of it. It's a, it's a beautiful movie.
You will cry and you will laugh.It's really, really good.
It's so, so good. I had to look up her name
because I was feeling like it's Cortana Turnbull.
I can't believe I because it's based on her name, Cortana
(28:31):
Turnbull. She is so talented.
Oh my gosh, she's amazing. You're going to love it.
It's a great movie. I highly recommend.
Oh yeah, I've actually will write that down and put that on
my list for sure. So you have mentioned that you
have coached a lot of actors, kids, teens, adults, like you've
done all of it. Tell us a little bit about the
(28:53):
creation and the vision behind your business actor site and
like what inspired you to start it?
Well, actually I didn't start after site.
I did start working there in theyear 2000, so long ago as a
teacher and I, I helped grow it.I helped nurture it and turn it
(29:13):
into, you know, what it eventually became and is now.
But originally I was just working with the in the kid and
teen division. And then I started working with
the adults. But after site was founded by a
wonderful man named JP Turnbull like in the 90s and sadly he
passed in 2020 of COVID and we we miss him so much.
(29:37):
He was just a light in this world and an amazing person and
mentor to me and so many others.And but about actors that, you
know, I had helped build it and I honestly couldn't stand the
thought of someone else coming in and kind of goofing it up
once he had passed. And so my business partner,
Amber Bohack and I bought the business and we're just both so
(29:59):
grateful that we get to keep J PS Legacy alive.
And we're celebrating our five year anniversary next month of
having taken it over. So it's pretty cool.
Oh, that's so nice. I like that.
Oh man, I like when I first discovered actor side I was
like, wow, this is like a reallycool place.
(30:21):
Like everything was virtual, which I felt was so nice because
driving back and forth it can bea lot.
But I like that it's now open toeveryone, whether it's
voiceover, audiobooks, commercial comedy, drama, the
list goes on and on and on. And you have have helped so many
actors around the world who havebeen in major films, major TV
(30:45):
shows, commercials, even. And it's honestly really
inspiring to see the impact thatyou all have.
Like you all bring the sense of,of care and the sense of
knowledge that you all have had for the for like this past like
2 decades. And it's so nice to see how not
(31:10):
only we can learn, but we can apply it to our craft and keep
going forward. So you have definitely taught a
lot of different kids and adopt A lot of different teens and
adults. What are some of your proud
success stories or like memorable moments like working
with actors through Actor Sight?Oh, gosh, there's so many.
(31:31):
There's so, so, so many. I mean, you're, I mean, as you
said, you know, over the past 25years that I've been doing this,
literally not a single week goesby where I don't see one of my
students, whether it's like a private coaching client or
someone from group classes, you know, in a commercial or TV
(31:51):
series regular, you know, like on Netflix or prime time, you
know, ABCABCCBS, whatever it is Fox in a guest star, a Co star
or big like giant movies, Marvelmovies, like everything
Broadway, everything in between,you name it.
So it's so, so much so, in fact,that whenever I'm like home
(32:12):
watching TV and I see somebody, I'm like, hey, there's so and so
one of my students that my family is like, yeah, yeah,
another one. We know they're like so over it
because I literally say it all the time.
They're just like, yeah, so sorry, sorry, my students, my
family doesn't give a hoot, but I am like, woohoo, you know,
cheering. I just love helping actors get
(32:34):
out of their own way and like, live up to their potential and
just like live the dream, you know, live that dream that they
have. And I mean, as you know, I, I
coach actors for specific, specific auditions, but I also
work in private training. And a lot of actors prefer
private training to group classes.
There are certainly benefits from both.
You know, in Group settings, notonly do you get the opportunity
(32:56):
to meet fellow artists and learnfrom watching what they do and
how they respond to redirects and whatnot, but in private
training sessions, that's where it really gets juicy as you've
experienced yourself, because you get an entire session
dedicated just to you and exactly what you need to like up
level and grow as opposed to like maybe your 5 minute turn
(33:16):
during a group class. It could be really powerful.
But some some actors, you know, prefer group settings, some like
privates. But you said when you came into
actor site it was all virtual. We we're virtual, which we are
now. So like prior to COVID, we used
to have a studio space in Los Angeles, but then COVID happened
and we went completely virtual and now we just strictly only
(33:38):
virtual. It's been amazing though,
because we can work with actors literally all over the world.
The majority are in America, butquite often we have
international students all the time.
Last month I had an actor from Italy in one class, and just
this past weekend I had a lovelyyoung actress from Botswana in
South Africa in another class. And so it's just great that the
(34:01):
reach has just literally gone all over the world.
It's crazy. Yeah, I find, like everyone
wants to be an actor or some type of creative in that same
realm, whether it's voice over, on screen, commercial theater,
audiobooks, whatever it might be.
Everyone gets inspired by someone that they look up to and
(34:23):
they want to like, learn. How did they do all of that?
And how can I also do that too and like keep it for the rest of
my life? Whether I stay an actor for 10
years and then do something else, I still have that
knowledge and that craft that I could apply to my next career
down the line. And I see a lot of actors come
(34:45):
through. I like online, I just see a lot
of talk. And I watch actors on actors
from Variety magazine, which is like a great, great series to
watch. If anyone has ever not likes not
seen it, you have to watch it. Trust me, you'll learn a lot.
But with actors, I when I was like coming through, I didn't
(35:06):
know anything. Like I know I knew a little bit
just by doing my own research, but I wanted to actually learn
from someone who was in the business, someone who was
working constantly and actually knew what they were talking
about. And I find actors I just like a
friendly, like it's like a home away from home.
For actors. Yeah, yeah, it's, it's, it's
(35:28):
just a family. It's such a family.
And, you know, we're all workingactors that work at actor sites.
So it's like we're, you know, we're not just giving you our
experience from working as coaches and teachers, but also
our experience being on set and auditioning, you know, just like
just like all the actors. So it's like you're getting kind
(35:48):
of A2 fold experience, which I think is really awesome.
It's really great. It's interesting how you're
saying like everyone wants to bean actor and I I think it's true
to a certain extent. You know, I mean, there's some
people that are super shy and they're like, Oh my God, I could
never do what you do. But there's like a lot of people
that aren't like working for it as hard as they're wishing for
(36:09):
it. You know, it is hard work.
There is a lot of, you know, blood, sweat and tears and time
and energy that you have to put into it.
And I think a lot of times people just see like the
limelight, you know, the red carpets and the award shows and
all that fancy part. And it's like that's the kind of
icing or maybe even just the cherry.
But everything else that makes that cake, you know, that's,
(36:32):
that's the real stuff. It definitely is, yes.
So I'm glad that you actually mentioned that.
Like when it comes to be an actor, you can't just like flip
on a camera and do your lines and like, that's it, like.
That's not how. That works.
There's a lot that goes into it.You have to like train.
You got to understand what you're doing.
You got to have very like specific goals and understand
(36:55):
like your character day in, day out.
Basically, kind of like basically taking your character
and making it yourself. So how do you like approach
preparing for like a new role? How does like how has your
process changed over the years or has it stayed the same?
You know, it's funny. It's like sometimes I have to
(37:18):
remind myself what I teach my students because I get caught up
and I'm busy with life. An audition pops in and my
instinct might just be to do some quick prep and then I'm
like, no, wait, stop. I got to give this the focus and
attention it deserves. You know, say practice what you
preach can really just today I was telling you I was doing
these auditions and I had three,I have 3 auditions that I had to
(37:40):
do today. I've done two of them and, and I
knew I was doing this with you and I have some other stuff.
I have a class later and some coachings and I was like
scrambling a little bit and I was feeling under the gun, like
with time pressures and almost like cut myself short.
And then I was like, wait, girl,what?
Hold on, Do it right? And I didn't want to rush it
(38:00):
just to get them done. And so I just really focused on
the ones that were due first, the ones that had the earlier
deadlines and got two of them done.
I have one more to take, but it's like there's a whole
process, you know, because we'veworked on this, there's like a
whole scene breakdown, characteranalysis.
It's it's not of course, learning the lines, but it's not
(38:22):
even about the lines. You know, it's about all that
other, like you said, kind of digging into a persons
perspective and what makes them tick and why do they react the
way they're reacting, reacting and you know, what are their
obstacles and what are they trying to achieve and what's,
you know, all that juicy stuff. There's more.
There's a lot to it. And the more you dig into that,
(38:42):
the meatier it is. It's more interesting to play.
It's more interesting to watch for the viewers, the audience.
And you know, it's like all about storytelling, but you
know, you don't want to just tell a vanilla story.
Right. Right.
Nothing wrong with. Vanilla, but right.
Exactly. I, I think that's why like TV
(39:02):
has gone on for for so many years as I feel like it's been
on forever, honestly. And I think what like like the
light bulb like switched like turned on for me, it's like,
wow, this story's really, reallygood.
They know what they're talking about.
They know what they're doing andit makes me believe them
(39:24):
sometimes. I think sometimes actors are
like, like their characters are real people and I'm like, you're
doing something really good. Like for example, Gilmore Girls.
I love that TV show. It's honestly the best TV show.
I'm rewatching it right now. Lorelai and Rory, their family
dynamic, Emily Richard like whole cast and Paris like
(39:48):
they're it's just when you have a good cast that blends so well
that you forget that they're acting, that's when I I I think
I feel it's it was made like just for them and it's it's like
basically kind of like a realityTV show, but in a certain way
(40:08):
you. Know, I think sometimes not, not
for all shows, but sometimes especially for longer running
series as the show kind of takesoff, like in the first season,
the writers get to know the actors and like they're kind of
idiosyncrasies and their personalities and they sort of
start writing for the actor, youknow, you know what I mean?
(40:31):
So sometimes it's exactly what you're saying, you know, they
are bringing kind of some littlepiece of themselves to it.
But then there are times when the actors are playing total
characters that are have nothingto do with them, that are
nothing like, you know, some killer or some, you know, some
just something totally differentand unique.
But when you can watch performances where you can see
(40:52):
the actors, they're they're living it as opposed to like
performing it, it really draws you in.
At least it draws me in more. Oh, it definitely draws me in
for play more Grey's Anatomy, how to get what was murder
scandal, ER, like there's just so many good things about TV and
(41:13):
movies that and even theater just it really makes you think
differently and like you just like that.
Like when did like, like who wasyour hurt?
Like the person that you looked up to as an actor that I would
love to be in this business. That's such a good one.
(41:34):
You know, I always feel like that, like when I was younger,
like in my 20s, that I wanted tobe like Sandra Bullock, but it
was because, I mean, she's so lovely and super talented and,
you know, Oscar winner. But it I what I like about her
is that she does comedies and she does drama.
(41:57):
She does a little bit of both and, and not all actors do.
Some of them, you know, kind of steer, stick to their lane or
whatever. A lot of them do.
But I just always loved that about her career and just was
like, oh, I would love to followthat kind of path just because
it's like in my house, we're always laughing and goofing off
in the house. I just love all things comedy.
But you know, I can also yank out a tear when needed.
(42:21):
And I love diving into really like emotional vulnerable
pieces. My mom always says, you know, I
don't like seeing you die on TV so much.
I tend to die on TVA lot. Like, sorry, not sorry, mom.
I can't help what I book. Hey.
Yeah, yeah. Oh my goodness.
No, honestly, it's definitely very true.
(42:41):
Like my, my family and I, we love, we love everything, but I
think we learn more towards likethe drama sometimes.
But we do love a good comedy every once in a while.
It's always my thing. Like I grew up on Disney and
Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.Those were like my happy joy,
joy moments. And then I really got into the
(43:02):
nitty gritty of the shows. I'm like, oh, wow, things are
getting a little bit crazy around here.
Let me sit down and invest all of my life in this.
Yeah, yeah. You can't help but like, just
binge watch a show when you divein, like, or you get an audition
for a show that maybe you haven't seen.
So you're like, OK, I'm going towatch an episode.
And then it's like the weekend has gone by and you've watched
(43:23):
like 30 episodes. Yeah, you know.
What I mean, but wait, I want toknow who you who, who you've
looked up to. Like, do you have an actor or
actress that you've kind of looked up to them?
Oh, definitely Denzel Washington.
He is absolutely phenomenal. I've watched almost all of his
(43:43):
films and I'm still going through every single thing on
his list. And he has.
He still has more coming and just the way he holds himself
not only as an actor but as a person in on and off screen and
sometimes behind the camera. It's the way he approaches a
role and makes it personal, where it makes you feel
(44:07):
something, it makes you feel heard, seen, alive.
And there weren't really a lot of, at least for me, a person
from what I've I've seen, there weren't really a lot of black
males on television that had leading roles.
And it was always so hard to find them because he had to.
Like, it was like a needle in a haystack sometimes.
(44:29):
But now there's so many of them and it's so nice to see someone
who looks like me on the big screen and saying, hey, I can do
this too. If he can do it, so can I.
And that's literally all the thethat's all I literally needed is
like someone who looked like me saying that you can do this too.
I love that, but you have to do it for you.
(44:51):
I love that. And not for XY and Z reasons
here. Here's what I want to happen for
you. You'll book a movie with him.
Aw, that'd be so. Cool, yes, that would be a
dream. That'd be so cool.
Hey, honestly, I am working my butt off as much as possible to
achieve that goal. That's my next thing on my
(45:11):
bucket list. I usually make a little actors
bucket list every so often. It's coming up where five years
of doing all of this. It's time to make another five
year plan to see where things go.
Nice. I like it.
Yeah, so with like TV and film and just like just everything in
(45:34):
between, like, what do you prefer?
Like working in comedy, drama, Little Mix of both.
Yeah, I like both. I like to do both.
I mean, the, the a fun thing would be like a character that's
funny but also, you know, is dramatic.
I mean, that'd be lovely if it was even in the same role.
But it's like, it's kind of funny because it's like with
actors, unless you're making your own, you know, shows or
(45:58):
films or what not, we don't knowwhat we're going to book.
We don't, you know, I mean, certainly there are people that
are like, I only want to do one thing and that's fine.
But for the most part, you know,we're just, we just want to
work. So we don't know if the next
thing we book is going to be a comedy or a drama or a horror
film or whatever it it is. But it's like we just want to
work. But I like, I like doing all of
(46:22):
it. I think it's yeah, I like doing
all of it. I'm as a big big fat scaredy cat
watching like scary horror movies but I would love to be in
one. Oh yes, hello.
I mean they are making Scary movie.
I think Scary Movie six. Oh my gosh.
(46:43):
And that's like a combination oflike comedy and drama with like
the Wayne brothers. So I'm very excited to see how
that's going to go personally. But what I'm manifesting for you
is to definitely book a role as like, on the same side as Sandra
Bullock in the same film. That would be awesome.
That would. Be awesome.
(47:05):
That would be awesome. So you've worked with a lot of
different directors over the years and I think you learn from
a director each time that you golike, what's your method for
like adjusting to different directors, like style on set?
Because every director has theirown style of like filming and
doing things and directions likehow have you like adjusted?
(47:26):
Yeah, that's so true. Because some like work really
fast and some have you do the scene 20 times.
I I'd say I just try and listen and observe and go with the
flow. You know, I'm there to help them
tell the writer's story in the director's vision, right?
So I would say, too, I try not to be afraid to ask questions.
(47:51):
If I have any questions, I'm like, ask.
And I want to be shy. I always ask the makeup artists
when they're doing my makeup, what the vibe has been like with
the director that day or during that shoot, because they'll give
you all the juicy gossip. That's my tip.
Anybody out there? I'm always like, hey, how's the,
how's the, if it's like a director, I don't know, you
know, how's the director? Are they moving fast or slow or
(48:14):
whatever? And they'll tell you all the all
the good stuff. I've worked with some amazing
directors and some not so amazing directors.
I had a director once tell me, Kimberly, I want you to say the
words like they're cooking in your mouth.
Like, what the heck does that even mean?
I don't even know what that means.
It's very poetic, but I don't even know what that means.
(48:37):
Hey, I guess food or something, I don't know.
It's crazy. I.
Don't know. I don't know.
But like, honestly, what I find like directors, I've only worked
with a couple of directors in myshort time of being an actor in
this industry, but it's always like, so cool and how they work.
And it kind of makes you think, can I be a director too?
(48:58):
Like, yeah, you can. It's another form of
storytelling, but behind the camera.
For sure, for sure. There's a lot of actors that end
up directing for sure. Yeah.
And Speaking of actors, have there been any actors that
you've worked with that have taught you something like
profound or like unexpected? You know, I'm, I've had the
(49:21):
opportunity to work with some incredible actors, like
including many Oscar winners, which sounds all fancy, I know,
But sometimes, sometimes I'm like somebody pinch me.
I can't believe I'm here. But what sticks with me the most
wasn't really any deep philosophical thing, but it's
really just how chill they are, you know, or they were when like
(49:42):
working with them. So it's like these actors at the
top of their game. They're they're not obsessing
over perfection. They were just playing, you
know, they're present and they're like curious and alive
in the scene. And just being around that kind
of energy taught me to just loosen my grip because I am such
a total type A kind of girl. And it's just kind of, over the
(50:05):
years reminded me that the magicreally happens when you stop
gripping so hard and just live it, you know what I'm saying?
It's like, that was a huge shiftfor me, not trying to control
every moment. Now I'm still totally prepared,
but letting it unfold and just trusting that I've done the work
is is really freeing. And it's it's way more fun.
(50:25):
It's way more fun that way too. Oh yeah, definitely, 100%.
I agree. Yeah, well, it is time for a
very special thing that we do here on the podcast quite
frequently. It is a rapid fire round.
Rapid fire hit me. Hit me.
OK, so first roll you ever bought?
(50:48):
I booked a recurring role on thesoap opera Passions.
It's not on TV anymore, but The funny thing, my mom was like,
great, now does that mean I haveto watch a soap opera now?
I was like, Gee, thanks mom. Hey, you never know dream
director you would love to work with?
(51:08):
Taika Waititi hands down. I, I heard him speak in an
interview years ago and I just immediately was like, yes, this
is someone I want to collaboratewith.
I was like, this is it. I'm in.
He just, he creates these these like wild, funny, totally
offbeat worlds that still managed to like right hit you
right in the fields. You know, it's it's just like
(51:30):
this combo of like heart and ridiculousness that I would I
just would love to play in. I mean, come on, JoJo rabbit
amazing. And I loved the TV show
reservation dogs. And he doesn't love like Thor
Ragnarok. I mean, Tyka love Tyka.
Most underrated actor working today.
(51:54):
That's easy. The most underrated actor
working today is, I mean, obviously you.
Hello. Clearly underrated.
Let's get you a series regular already.
I mean, Chicago Fire. Awesome.
More of that coming in hot, please.
Please and thank you. Favorite book?
Oh, you know, oh, favorite. Well, right now, my favorite
(52:17):
book, the one I'm currently reading is called The 12 Week
Year by Brian Moran and Michael something, Michael Lennington,
Lexington, something like that. It's about compressing and like
breaking down your annual goals into shorter, more manageable
cycles. So basically, if you follow, if
you follow it properly, you'll get a year's worth of work done
(52:39):
in a 12 week cycle. I'm a go getter at heart.
It's the reason I'm reading it is because I'm, I'm working on
creating a digital course to help actors overcome their
nerves and like performance anxiety and stage right, that
kind of stuff. And I'm super excited about it.
I'm hoping it'll launch sometimethis fall.
I had been working on it last year and I, if you recall, I
(53:01):
fell last year last summer and Ibroke both of my ankles at the
same time. I'm alive and happy and dancing
now on my 2 feet. But recovering from that sort of
threw my schedule off a bit. And this book is really helping
me get organized so I can finally get this digital course
out to the world. I know so many actors of all
ages are going to benefit from it.
I'm super excited. Yes, and I cannot wait for that
(53:23):
to come out and I will be blasting it all over social
media when it does. This could.
Be cool. Another question is most used
acting tip you give to young actors?
You know, lately I seem to be reminding a lot of actors that
although you should always be memorized for auditions, even
when casting says you don't haveto be, because I feel like you
(53:46):
you are more free and can play more when you're you feel
confident about what you're saying.
But The thing is, I want actors to remember that it's not about
being memorized. It's about being memorable.
So sort of like an oxymoron to say, be memorized, but don't
worry about it. But it's true.
It's so true. The role that got away.
(54:10):
That's a good one. The role that got away.
Maybe I have the cop out answer of like what's meant for me will
find me. So none have gotten away.
Maybe it was just some other girl's lucky day.
No, that's lame. I would say honestly, I
auditioned for several roles on several seasons of Stranger
(54:31):
Things. That would have been a such a
cool thing. I didn't book any of those, but
that would have been so cool. I love that show.
That would have been a dream that would.
Have been so good. And the last and final rabbit
heart questions. One word to describe your acting
journey. Spicy.
(54:52):
Definitely not bland. Oh, that's not one word.
No, wait, let me change, let me change.
Twisty, not twisty. OK, that is where the plot will
twist to next. I like that.
That's that's a good one, Twisty.
I'll keep that in mind. Well, thank you, Kimberly
(55:13):
Crandall for coming on my podcast.
Hello Spring. It was really great to have you
on here. I cannot wait to see what you do
next, especially for Actorsite on screen.
Maybe one day on the theater, who knows.
Especially getting that next next role within the commercial
TV film series regular, manifesting series regular for
(55:35):
you, especially working aside Sandra Bullock.
Yes, indeed. Oh my gosh, thank you so much
for having me. This has been so much fun.
You're just always such a delight and smiling and every
room you walk into, you just light it up.
And I think that the best thing we could do is like work
together. Let's book something together
(55:57):
and get on set together. That would be so fun.
Yeah, that would be so much fun.Wishing you the best of luck
always and forever. Yay, thank you so much.
Take care. Yeah.
Thank you all so much. Thank you.
Thank you for coming to the podcast and I will see you next
time. Already friends, that was the
end of today's episode on Hello Spring with Kimberly Crandall
(56:19):
and I want to give a huge thank you to Kimberly for sharing not
only her incredible career highlights but also a heart for
empowering actors to believe in themselves and embrace in their
craft from sets of hit TV shows,the classroom.
Still with dreamers, Kimberly has reminded us that success
isn't just about landing the role.
It's about the courage to step into your own spotlight and keep
(56:40):
growing no matter where you are in your journey.
If you were inspired by today's this conversation, make sure to
follow and connect with Kimberlyon all the platforms, check out
after site and even maybe take aleap into the creative world
you've been dreaming about because besties, I was one of
you all. I'm still tapping into that
creative world and it's been so fun so far.
(57:02):
Until next time, keep creating, keep shining and remember your
story does matter and the world is waiting to see it.
My name is Steven Works and thishas been hello spring.
Make sure you go ahead and come right and subscribe wherever you
listen to your podcast and I will see you all next time.
Bye.
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The Burden
The Burden is a documentary series that takes listeners into the hidden places where justice is done (and undone). It dives deep into the lives of heroes and villains. And it focuses a spotlight on those who triumph even when the odds are against them. Season 5 - The Burden: Death & Deceit in Alliance On April Fools Day 1999, 26-year-old Yvonne Layne was found murdered in her Alliance, Ohio home. David Thorne, her ex-boyfriend and father of one of her children, was instantly a suspect. Another young man admitted to the murder, and David breathed a sigh of relief, until the confessed murderer fingered David; “He paid me to do it.” David was sentenced to life without parole. Two decades later, Pulitzer winner and podcast host, Maggie Freleng (Bone Valley Season 3: Graves County, Wrongful Conviction, Suave) launched a “live” investigation into David's conviction alongside Jason Baldwin (himself wrongfully convicted as a member of the West Memphis Three). Maggie had come to believe that the entire investigation of David was botched by the tiny local police department, or worse, covered up the real killer. Was Maggie correct? Was David’s claim of innocence credible? In Death and Deceit in Alliance, Maggie recounts the case that launched her career, and ultimately, “broke” her.” The results will shock the listener and reduce Maggie to tears and self-doubt. This is not your typical wrongful conviction story. In fact, it turns the genre on its head. It asks the question: What if our champions are foolish? Season 4 - The Burden: Get the Money and Run “Trying to murder my father, this was the thing that put me on the path.” That’s Joe Loya and that path was bank robbery. Bank, bank, bank, bank, bank. In season 4 of The Burden: Get the Money and Run, we hear from Joe who was once the most prolific bank robber in Southern California, and beyond. He used disguises, body doubles, proxies. He leaped over counters, grabbed the money and ran. Even as the FBI was closing in. It was a showdown between a daring bank robber, and a patient FBI agent. Joe was no ordinary bank robber. He was bright, articulate, charismatic, and driven by a dark rage that he summoned up at will. In seven episodes, Joe tells all: the what, the how… and the why. Including why he tried to murder his father. Season 3 - The Burden: Avenger Miriam Lewin is one of Argentina’s leading journalists today. At 19 years old, she was kidnapped off the streets of Buenos Aires for her political activism and thrown into a concentration camp. Thousands of her fellow inmates were executed, tossed alive from a cargo plane into the ocean. Miriam, along with a handful of others, will survive the camp. Then as a journalist, she will wage a decades long campaign to bring her tormentors to justice. Avenger is about one woman’s triumphant battle against unbelievable odds to survive torture, claim justice for the crimes done against her and others like her, and change the future of her country. Season 2 - The Burden: Empire on Blood Empire on Blood is set in the Bronx, NY, in the early 90s, when two young drug dealers ruled an intersection known as “The Corner on Blood.” The boss, Calvin Buari, lived large. He and a protege swore they would build an empire on blood. Then the relationship frayed and the protege accused Calvin of a double homicide which he claimed he didn’t do. But did he? Award-winning journalist Steve Fishman spent seven years to answer that question. This is the story of one man’s last chance to overturn his life sentence. He may prevail, but someone’s gotta pay. The Burden: Empire on Blood is the director’s cut of the true crime classic which reached #1 on the charts when it was first released half a dozen years ago. Season 1 - The Burden In the 1990s, Detective Louis N. Scarcella was legendary. In a city overrun by violent crime, he cracked the toughest cases and put away the worst criminals. “The Hulk” was his nickname. Then the story changed. Scarcella ran into a group of convicted murderers who all say they are innocent. They turned themselves into jailhouse-lawyers and in prison founded a lway firm. When they realized Scarcella helped put many of them away, they set their sights on taking him down. And with the help of a NY Times reporter they have a chance. For years, Scarcella insisted he did nothing wrong. But that’s all he’d say. Until we tracked Scarcella to a sauna in a Russian bathhouse, where he started to talk..and talk and talk. “The guilty have gone free,” he whispered. And then agreed to take us into the belly of the beast. Welcome to The Burden.