Lisa and David talk with studio teacher KRISTIN MINKLER, whose work includes “Abbott Elementary” and so many more of your favorite shows, about both the education and child welfare aspects of her job, and how young performers and their parents can best collaborate with the studio teacher. Topics covered include work hours, work permits and what to do when confronted with particular issues that can arise for minor actors and their parents.

This week’s Mailbag question: “Is it better to have my child take acting lessons or participate in a program where my child will play a role in a full production?”

KRISTIN MINKLER

Kristin Minkler began her teaching career in 1999 after graduating from Pepperdine University. She immediately began teaching English at Granada Hills High School where she was blessed to be mentored by some of the most amazing teachers. Growing up in Southern California, Kristin attended a small private school where many of her friends were working actors. She always knew about studio teaching and decided to get her green card to work during the summers instead of teaching summer school. She fell in love with the job and decided to work full time in the studios. In 2005 she took a little time off when she had her identical twin boys who worked in the industry when they were little. It was at this time Kristin experienced what it was like as a parent which greatly shaped how she approached her job as a studio teacher.

Kristin spent over 10 years as the lead teacher working on Nickelodeon shows including “School of Rock”, “Instant Mom”, “Wendell and Vinnie”, “How to Rock”, and “All That". She moved to network with “Life in Pieces” and streaming with Netflix’s “Mr. Iglesias”. Her current show “Abbott Elementary” is the most difficult but most rewarding show she has ever worked on and hopes it runs forever.

https://thestudioteachers.com/

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

Lisa and David talk with the incredible Bobby Soto about his journey from child actor to adult star, his respect for acting and everyone involved in the filming process, and the importance of not outsourcing your own power.

This week’s Mailbag question: “As the parents of young performers, do you have any tips for dealing with rejection?”

BOBBY SOTO

Bobby Soto can be seen in the Amazon feature film, A MILLION MILES AWAY starring opposite Michael Peña and Rosa Salazar. He can also be seen in the Disney/ Searchlight feature film, FLAMIN' HOT, directed by Eva Longoria. Soto’s credits include the Netflix series NARCOS: MEXICO, created and developed by Jose Padilha and Eric Newman, and THE LISTENER with Tessa Thompson and director Steve Buscemi.

In 2020, Bobby was seen in Scott Teems' THE QUARRY, opposite Michael Shannon and Shea Whigham. Additionally, Bobby played the lead in David Ayer’s film THE TAX COLLECTOR opposite Shia LaBeouf. It takes Ayer back to his filmic roots of END OF WATCH and TRAINING DAY, wrapped in a modern-day GODFATHER type crime world.

Instagram: @bobbyjuniorsoto

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

Lisa and David talk with award-winning casting director Suzanne Goddard-Smythe about bringing your best to auditions, finding inspiration in classic performances, and what she looks for when casting the young actor.

This week’s Mailbag question: “How can I help my young actor prepare for an audition that requires an accent or dialect?”

SUZANNE GODDARD-SMYTHE

An Emmy nominated Casting Director for RAVEN’S HOME, Suzanne has worked in casting since 1998. She has cast network series such as BECKER, TITUS, GIRLFRIENDS, THE GAME, MALIBU COUNTRY as well as streaming and cable series such as WAREHOUSE 13, LIV & MADDIE, KC UNDERCOVER, THE WHO WAS SHOW?, SCHOOL OF ROCK, NO GOOD NICK, COUNTRY COMFORT and THAT GIRL LAY LAY.

Suzanne also was a casting director of the original HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL in 2013-14 playing in Los Angeles and Off-Broadway.

Video Games with Quantic Dream include BEYOND: TWO SOULS w/ Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe; DETROIT: BECOME HUMAN with Jesse Williams, Bryan Dechart, Clancy Brown; and STAR WARS: ECLIPSE.

Suzanne is a graduate of the UCLA Department of Theatre Arts.

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

Lisa and David talk with one of the West Coast’s top youth voice-over agents, Vince LeBica of DPN Talent Agency, about launching and building your career as a young voice-over artist.

This week’s Mailbag question: “What is the most important class that a young actor can take?”

VINCE LEBICA

Vince LeBica started at DPN Talent Agency in Beverly Hills 11 years ago. DPN is known as a top-tier voice-over agency in the U.S., and it was not long before Vince climbed their rankings to become a Talent Agent. While striving to attain his title in less than two years, Vince established a commercial youth voice-over department at DPN. Over the past nine years Vince has turned this department into one of the most competitive Commercial children's voice-over divisions on the West Coast.

In addition to working with kids, Vince’s main focus is general market Commercial, Promo and occasionally Celebrity business.

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

On this premiere episode of Season Two, Lisa and David talk with Thom Nemer, the talented young star of the Disney+ feature, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip," and his incredible mom, Lenny Levin.

This week’s Mailbag question: “How do you talk with kids about slowdowns in the industry?”

THOM NEMER

Thom Nemer has established himself through his diverse range of performances. His career commenced with a television advertisement for IHOP, followed by appearances in national commercials and print advertisements. Notably, he also performed an iconic stage concert show with Pete Townshend and Alice Ripley for The Who's production of "Tommy" in 2019, portraying the young Tommy.

As he continues his journey, Thom has garnered recognition for his recurring role in the popular television series "Snowfall" as Carlo, the Prime Amazon TV series "Packed" as James, and his appearance in the titular role of Alexander in the Disney+ film "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip."

Since the age of six, Thom has developed a natural affinity for the camera, viewing it as his second home. He embraces every opportunity he is on set, bringing characters to life and creating memories. Despite his young age, Thom amuses those around him with his spirited old soul, playful demeanor, humor, energy, and professionalism.

When not engaged in projects, Thom dedicates his time to his education, participating in workshops, engaging in sports, writing stories, reading books, playing music, and spending quality time with his family, friends, and canine companion.

Instagram: @thomnemerofficial

TikTok: @thomnemer

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

Lisa and David talk with the multi-talented TANNER BUCHANAN (Robby Keene on the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai”) about the benefits of taking artistic risks, the value of acting, dance and other training, staying true to your values, and the importance of always learning new things.

Lisa and David address this week’s mailbag question: “How do you know if tape submissions are being viewed?”

We hope you have enjoyed Season One of OPENING DOORS. Season Two coming soon. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to be notified of upcoming episodes!

TANNER BUCHANAN

Tanner Buchanan is an American actor who has demonstrated his commitment to the art of acting since the age of 10. He started acting classes with Lisa and David soon after. Tanner has gone on to co-star, guest star, and become a regular in several TV series and movies since he started acting in 2009.

Tanner is popularly known for his roles in “Designated Survivor” (ABC) as Leo Kirkman and “Cobra Kai” (Netflix) as Robby Keene.

Instagram: @tannerbuchananofficial

TikTok: @tannerbuchanan

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

Lisa and David speak with the multifaceted JAMES DUFF, an actor, Broadway playwright, Emmy-nominated screenwriter, and showrunner/creator about how the young actor can approach material with mature and controversial themes, why it’s okay to decline an audition if the role makes you uncomfortable, the importance of telling authentic stories, the role of the showrunner, and much more.

This week’s mailbag question: “What should I do if I’m getting conflicting advice from my agent and manager?”

JAMES DUFF

James Duff was born in New Orleans and raised in Texas where he studied piano, journalism and drama, eventually becoming a working actor, performing in several productions at Theatre Three (Chicago, The Taking Away of Little Willy, The Seagull), Dallas Repertory Theatre (Shenandoah, God’s Favorite), and Casa Mañana (Grease, Man of La Mancha), as well as doing voice overs, commercials and industrial films.

On moving to New York, Duff switched careers, deciding to concentrate on writing plays. His first drama, The War at Home, premiered at the Hampstead Theatre Company in London, and successfully traveled the world with productions in Israel, Belgium, Greece, South Africa, Sweden (directed by Ingmar Bergman) and a four-city tour of Germany. Retitled Home Front, it opened on Broadway in January of 1985. His second play, A Quarrel of Sparrows premiered at the Cleveland Playhouse in 1991 and went on to bow at The Promenade Theatre in New York City six months later. That same year, his first television movie, Doing Time on Maple Drive, aired on FOX, garnering Duff an Emmy nomination.

Other TV movies include Without A Kiss Goodbye and Betrayed. His series work includes stints writing and producing Popular, Felicity, The Agency and Star Trek: Enterprise, Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Picard. He is probably best known for creating, producing and writing The D.A., The Closer and its spinoff, Major Crimes. The Closer and Major Crimes both reached a worldwide audience of over eighty million viewers. Other work includes executive producing Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Picard. Currently, he is show running Sherlock & Daughter, currently prepping in Dublin.

Duff is married to actor Phillip P. Keene and lives in Paris and Southern California.

THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others.

Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace

Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace

Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com