The Working Actor NYC Podcast
? Being a working actor in New York City isn’t easy. Maybe you’re hustling to book better roles, or you’re just starting out and trying to break into show business. Auditions, rejections, survival jobs, and navigating an industry that often feels impossible — we get it. We’ve been there. With decades on stage and screen, Patrick Richwood (Hollywood films, TV, national tours) and Benjamin Howes (Broadway, Off-Broadway, national tours, TV and film) share candid conversations that are honest, often hilarious, and always grounded in real experience. From backstage stories and industry secrets to practical tips and coping strategies, The Working Actor NYC podcast gives you the inside scoop on what it really takes to build, maintain, and love your acting career. Whether your dream is Broadway, the big screen, or anything in between, join us for weekly episodes designed to help you work smarter, laugh louder, and stay in the game.
The Working Actor NYC
What does "success" actually mean to you — and are you sure you'd recognize it if you had it?This week, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood get real about the messy, moving target that is "making it" as an actor. Benjamin kicks things off fresh from a Bhangra boot camp (yes, at 55, and yes, his body survived), then the conversation turns to the big question: what does success actually feel like, and why do we so rarely say out loud what we're really chasing?They talk fame vs. simply being "recognizable," the surreal experience of being stopped in a park by a stranger who's seen your work, the financial milestones that quietly redefine what success means, and why turning down work doesn't always feel as good as you'd think. Plus: opening night party survival tactics (bring a sandwich), the "divine dissatisfaction" that never really goes away no matter how far you climb, and why comparing yourself to your past self might be the only comparison worth making.By the end, they land somewhere neither of them expected: maybe success was never about the external markers at all — maybe it's just happiness, in disguise.
The Working Actor NYC
What happens when acting and life both need you at the same time?Actors spend a lot of time worrying about life derailing our careers. We get sick on the day of an audition. A family emergency happens during a run. An important event collides with a callback. And somewhere in our heads is that old rule: the show must go on.But sometimes there isn't a choice where everybody wins. There are just two things that matter to you competing for the same space on the calendar.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood talk about calling out of shows, performing when you probably shouldn't, the particular agony of missing an audition you'll never get back, and the "coulda, shoulda, if only" thinking that follows. We dig into where the "never miss a show" mythology actually comes from (it's older than Ethel Merman), the real story behind "break a leg," and what it's like when an entire cast gets sick and the understudies aren't ready.And then we turn the question around: What weddings, birthdays, trips and other pieces of our lives have we missed because we were protecting our careers — or simply protecting our availability in case an opportunity came along? Benjamin shares a personal story about a career-altering moment he almost missed, and how he's had to make peace with the calendar all over again this week, as he heads to a family funeral while a new show waits for him.There isn't an easy answer. Acting matters to us. So do the people and experiences that make up our lives. Maybe building a sustainable acting career means accepting that sometimes acting and life are going to compete for the calendar — and deciding which one gets the date.
The Working Actor NYC
What happens when actors stop waiting for the industry to give them permission to be creative? Actors spend so much of their careers waiting: waiting for the audition, the callback, the offer, the next opportunity to actually do the thing we trained to do. But casting gets to decide when we get hired — it doesn't get to decide when we get to be artists. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood explore what it means to take radical ownership of your creative life — and why “creating your own work” is only one small part of that. ? Creativity as play ? Creativity as expression ?️ Creativity as practice ✍️ Creativity as authorship ? Creativity as career strategy From acting and writing to making content, cooking, painting, building things — does it matter what you're creating if you're exercising your imagination? And perhaps the bigger question: Have actors given the industry too much power over when we're allowed to feel like artists?
The Working Actor NYC
Ever wondered what it's actually like to make a living as an actor?This episode starts with a Field Report on the early closing announcement of Cats: The Jellicle Ball on Broadway, and what it says about the economics of producing theatre today. But from there, Patrick Richwood and I head down a rabbit hole of stories that only working actors seem to collect.We talk about performing musicals in 100-degree heat, wearing costumes that feel like ovens, surviving outdoor productions, passing out on set, backstage bears, collapsing theatre walls, performing for audiences smaller than the cast, and the strange psychology of sitting in the front row. We even finish with some of the wonderfully awkward realities of filming intimate scenes.It's funny. It's ridiculous. And it's an honest look behind the curtain at a profession that audiences rarely get to see.Whether you're an actor, a theatre lover, or you're simply curious about what really happens behind the scenes, I think you'll enjoy this one.
The Working Actor NYC
Stop waiting for permission to own the parts of your career that already belong to you.What does it really mean to be in control of your acting career?In this Independence Day episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the difference between control, ownership and true creative independence. Using real comments from actors in the community, they explore what belongs to you, what belongs to your team, and what nobody gets to control at all.From agents, auditions and financial independence to craft, confidence, self-sufficiency and the work you do before anyone gives you permission, this conversation is a practical and honest look at how actors can take more ownership of their careers without pretending they control the entire industry.Because the more clearly you know what belongs to you, the less time you waste worrying about what doesn’t.
The Working Actor NYC
Why does walking into a room full of your peers feel so intimidating? Benjamin and Patrick unpack the invisible scorecard we all carry—and why genuine curiosity might be the best networking strategy you'll ever learn.When you walk into a room full of people in your industry... what's the first thing your brain starts measuring?Who's more successful?Who already knows everyone?Who looks more confident?Who just looked over your shoulder?Whether it's a film festival, a casting director workshop, an opening night, or a networking event, many of us stop having conversations and start auditioning for the room.This week on The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the invisible scorecard we all seem to carry—and why "schmoozing" feels so uncomfortable for so many creative people.Using Benjamin's recent experience at Tribeca Film Festival as a jumping-off point, they explore:Why networking often feels fakeThe psychology of comparing ourselves to everyone in the roomHow curiosity changes every conversationWhy community—not performance—is what actually builds careersThe simple question that transformed Benjamin's experience of the festivalOne realization sits at the heart of the conversation:"I stopped trying to be interesting. I became interested."If you've ever walked into an industry event feeling like everyone else belonged more than you did, this episode is for you.
The Working Actor NYC
Actors deal with rejection a lot. This week, we're ranking their coping strategies from healthy to completely unhinged. This week on The Working Actor NYC Podcast, we're diving into one of the most important—and ridiculous—parts of being an actor: coping with the ups and downs of the business. After a field report from Tribeca Festival, where Benjamin shares what he's learning from inside one of the world's most important film festivals, we turn our attention to the weird, wonderful, and occasionally alarming ways actors deal with rejection, uncertainty, and career chaos. Meditation? Healthy. Calling your actor friends? Probably healthy. Aggressively vacuuming your apartment after not booking the role? The jury is still out. We rate real actor coping strategies submitted by viewers and deciding whether they're Healthy, Questionable, or Completely Unhinged.
The Working Actor NYC
Every actor has at least one audition story they still think about at 2am.This week, we gathered around the internet campfire to relive some of the funniest, most mortifying, most chaotic audition stories we’ve ever heard — hopping into a bread truck to make it to Ripley Grier, singing West Side Story with a surprise bell choir accompaniment, self tapes shot like Oscar-winning cinema before anyone knew what a self tape even was, and the kind of unhinged audition notes that still haunt actors decades later. Somewhere between the trauma and the laughter, we realized every actor has survived at least one audition that should have sent them directly into witness protection.But underneath the chaos is something real: the resilience it takes to keep showing up. We talk about rejection, overthinking, bad direction, casting workshops, awkward industry moments, and the weird emotional endurance test that is building a career as an actor. If you’ve ever walked out of an audition replaying every second in your head… this episode is for you. Pull up a chair, bring your own horror story, and join us for one of the funniest and most honest conversations we’ve had yet.
The Working Actor NYC
The rejection you didn't see coming.What happens when you help build a project… and then the project moves forward without you?In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC podcast, Benjamin and Patrick dig into one of the most painful — and least discussed — experiences actors face: being part of the reading, workshop, lab, or regional production… and then not being invited back.Benjamin shares his recent experience of being dropped from a Broadway-bound project, and members of the acting community share their own stories of rejection, replacement, heartbreak, resilience, and recovery.This episode includes: • stories from actors who helped build shows and were later replaced • conversations about self-worth and rejection in the acting industry • thoughts on how actors recover emotionally and professionally • field reports from NYC casting offices and the theater community • a discussion about series regular auditions, managers, and “moving up the ladder” in TVFeaturing stories and perspectives from: Kimberly Doreen Burns Lauren Pastorek Jackie PetrocciaIf you’ve ever felt left behind by this business… this episode is for you.
The Working Actor NYC
Do you need to be selfish to succeed as an actor… or is that just insecurity in disguise?We break down confidence, ego, and the real behaviors that shape a career in the room.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, we tackle a deceptively simple question: do you have to be selfish to succeed as an actor? What starts as a surprising on-set interaction quickly opens up a deeper conversation about confidence, status signaling, and the fine line between self-belief and ego. From actors subtly “flashing credentials” to moments of bold self-positioning in the room, we unpack what these behaviors actually mean—and whether they help or hurt in a collaborative industry.Along the way, we break down real audition struggles, including a listener-submitted story about a dance call gone wrong, and explore the mental habits that can either derail or save you in high-pressure moments. We also dig into the idea of “infrastructure” in an actor’s career—from daily habits to unexpected homework like watching television with intention—and how clarity, resilience, and self-awareness ultimately shape long-term success more than any single moment of confidence or ego.
The Working Actor NYC
Are you falling behind as an actor… or does it just feel that way?In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive into one of the most destructive beliefs actors carry: the idea that everyone else is ahead.They unpack the comparison trap, the illusion created by social media, and why acting careers don’t follow timelines — even though we keep trying to force them onto one. They also discuss late starts, the long middle of an acting career, and why longevity matters more than early success.If you’ve ever felt like you started too late, haven’t booked enough, or watched others “pass you by,” this conversation will change how you think about your career.Because you’re not behind. You’re just in the middle.
The Working Actor NYC
Type gets you in the room. Brand gets you cast.In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood introduce their new format — featuring real-world field reports, live audience questions, and deep dives into essential acting career topics.This week, they tackle one of the most misunderstood concepts in the industry: type vs brand — and how understanding the difference can help actors move from co-star roles to series regular opportunities.Featuring insights from casting director sessions and practical tools actors can apply immediately.
The Working Actor NYC
If self-tapes feel like punishment, there’s a good chance you’re approaching them completely wrong. Self-tapes didn’t kill auditions. They just changed the rules.Self-tape auditions are now the standard for film, TV, and many theatre projects — but many actors still treat self tapes like a chore instead of a creative opportunity. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood share practical self-tape audition tips, discuss how to approach acting self tapes creatively, and talk about what actually helps actors stand out on camera.Self-tapes have completely changed the way actors audition — and a lot of actors still treat them like a chore.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the mindset shift that can make self-taping not just tolerable… but actually creative and empowering.Yes, many actors miss the energy of being in the room with casting directors. But the self-tape era has also opened up new opportunities: more control over your performance, the ability to collaborate with your own community of readers, and a chance to approach the audition like a miniature piece of storytelling.We talk about:• Why self-tapes feel isolating — and why that might be a myth • How building a circle of readers can actually strengthen your acting community • Whether props help or hurt your audition • Why overproducing your self-tape can backfire • The difference between playing it safe and making specific choices • How to start thinking of self-tapes as a creative opportunity instead of a burdenBecause here’s the truth: the rules of the industry have changed. And the actors who adapt fastest are the ones who keep working.If you’re still treating self-tapes like something you have to get through, this conversation might help you start using them to your advantage.
The Working Actor NYC
A conversation about longevity, identity, and staying alive to the work.Acting careers don’t follow straight lines — they move through seasons.In this episode, we explore the reality every long-term actor eventually faces: the transition from one chapter of work to another. Roles evolve, identities shift, and the challenge becomes not holding onto what once worked, but staying responsive to what the work is asking of you now.We discuss:The emotional reality of aging into new casting territoryLetting go of roles that defined earlier chaptersWhy some actors struggle during transitionsHow curiosity sustains longevity in the professionPractical ways to recognize where your career is heading nextThis conversation isn’t about surviving change. It’s about remaining artistically alive as your career evolves.Because longevity in acting isn’t about holding on — it’s about knowing when to release.
The Working Actor NYC
A BFA doesn't make you a working actor.What’s the difference between foundational training and ongoing training as a professional actor?In this episode, we unpack the distinction between degree-based programs (BFA/MFA) and the kind of training actors pursue once they’re working in the industry.Neither of us came up through conservatory programs — but we’re both deeply committed to ongoing training. Benjamin talks about the classes that shaped him at HB Studio in New York. Patrick reflects on the private studio in Hollywood that transformed his craft. In both cases, the work demanded imagination, truth, and personal responsibility — not just trying to impress a teacher.We explore:The strengths of foundational programsThe pitfalls of thinking a degree means you’re “done”Why some actors struggle to transition from student to professionalHow class can become a shield from the marketplaceAnd why community and continued growth matter at every levelTraining doesn’t end when school does. And the actors who last are the ones who keep sharpening the tool.If you’re navigating your own path — whether in school, out of school, or years into your career — this conversation will help you think about training in a more strategic way.
The Working Actor NYC
Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood are back with Season 2 of The Working Actor NYC Podcast — and they’re starting 2026 with an honest conversation about goals, momentum, and what’s actually changing in the acting industry.In this episode, they talk about:Why traditional goal-setting doesn’t always serve actorsThe difference between chasing moments and building momentumIndustry shifts they’re already noticing in 2026How working actors can orient themselves without burning out or clinging to outdated ideasThis isn’t about resolutions or hype. It’s about clarity, adaptability, and staying awake to the work as it evolves.Whether you’re resetting after a tough year or looking ahead with intention, this episode is about starting the season grounded, curious, and connected.
The Working Actor NYC
This is our Christmas week episode — and a look back at a year that changed everything.In this conversation, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood reflect on 2025: the growth, the surprises, and the evolution of The Working Actor NYC.What started as an audio-only podcast recorded at a dining table became: • a video podcast • a full YouTube channel • daily short-form content • weekly long-form episodes • and, unexpectedly, a coaching practice serving actors around the worldWe talk about: – the origin story of The Working Actor NYC – our most popular and favorite podcast episodes – what content resonated most this year – how coaching grew out of the work organically – and the community that made all of it possibleMostly, this episode is about gratitude. For the listeners. For the viewers. And for each other.Thank you for being here. Truly.?
The Working Actor NYC
Every working actor knows the feeling: watching a truly top-level performer and thinking… “How do they do that every day?”In this episode, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes break down the real habits, routines, and rituals we’ve seen in the pros — the ones that keep them consistent, resilient, and ready, even when life throws curveballs.We talk about things like: ? Would you still show up to the theatre every day if an injury kept you offstage? Some performers do — to stay connected to the show, keep their body in therapy, listen from the wings, and remain a part of the company. That level of commitment is a habit, not an accident.? Mindset that keeps you from spiraling ? Diet, hydration, and fuel that actually support performing ? Warm-ups and physical routines Broadway actors swear by ? And yes — plenty of the usual chaos and jokes you expect when Patrick and Benjamin get togetherThese habits aren’t about perfection. They’re about the tiny choices that keep you grounded, prepared, and professional — whether you’re on Broadway, on tour, or building momentum in your hometown.
The Working Actor NYC
It’s the holidays, and that means one thing: people everywhere are trying to figure out what on earth to buy the actor in their life. So in this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Patrick and I put together the ultimate gift guide — featuring 20 actor gifts that range from genuinely helpful… to deeply questionable… to what fever dream did this Etsy creator wake up from? We’ve got everything from: ? A website promising “How To Get A Restaurant Job With Zero Experience” ?️ A “Smells Like World’s Best Actor” candle ?️ A Tony Award replica (tell me you don’t want one…) ?️ Your own face on street furniture (yes, really) ? A Sweeney Todd straight razor (please don’t give this to method actors) ? A Shakespeare throw blanket for the drama queen in your life ?? And… The Working Actor NYC Merch Table, obviously. (Truly the perfect gift. I don’t make the rules.) Some gifts are sweet. Some are ridiculous. Some are surprisingly awesome. And one of them is literally a bus stop bench with your headshot on it. But honestly? The best gift for your actor might just be what we talk about at the end: love, support, and a soft place to land when the industry gets loud. Happy holidays from The Working Actor NYC — now go get your theatre kid something magical.
The Working Actor NYC
From Broadway to birthday clowns — we’re talking every acting job out there, and why they all count.In this episode, we take a wild ride through every corner of the acting world — from Broadway and Off-Broadway stages to national tours, regional houses, and community theatre. We break down film and TV work, commercials, and the surprising ways acting shows up in the corporate world — training videos, industrials, even tech demos and gaming voiceovers.And of course, we couldn’t resist diving into the weird acting jobs: children’s party clown, escape-room characters, historical re-enactors, Santa stand-ins… plus a few of our own stories you’ll have to hear to believe.Whether you’re a new actor figuring out your lane or a seasoned pro remembering your roots, this episode proves one thing: there are so many ways to make a life in this industry.
The Working Actor NYC
Spot the monster in your cast before opening night. Every actor has faced them — the narcissists, the laugh snatchers, the egomaniacs who turn rehearsals into nightmares. In this Halloween-inspired episode, Benjamin Howes sits down with actor Patrick Richwood to cast these toxic colleagues as monsters of the stage and set. Whether you’ve dealt with a Narcissactor, an Ego-Saurus Rex, or just a desperate Laugh Snatcher, this episode will help you keep your sanity, protect your craft, and remember: their monster is not your monster. ? Hosted by Benjamin Howes & Patrick Richwood The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. Visit us at https://theworkingactornyc.com/ ? Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!
The Working Actor NYC
There's a fine line between blowing off steam - and burning the whole cast.Every actor vents — it’s practically part of the job description. But when does a little healthy release turn into full-on toxic dumping that drags down the energy in the room? In this episode, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dig into the fine line between blowing off steam and becoming the person everyone avoids at rehearsal. Inspired by a listener’s real-life question about a castmate who wouldn’t stop badmouthing their own show, we talk about why we vent, how it bonds us, and what happens when it starts to poison the atmosphere instead of clearing it.With humor, empathy, and a lot of first-hand experience, Benjamin and Patrick share tools that help you stay on the healthy side of that line — from time-limiting your rants to signaling when you just need a minute to unload. They also explore how your emotional energy shapes your reputation in this small industry, and how to keep your venting productive, professional, and human. Whether you’re mid-rehearsal, mid-tour, or mid-meltdown, this episode will help you turn frustration into fuel — and remind you that venting clears the air, but dumping just clouds it.
The Working Actor NYC
From baby face to “dad bod” roles — the actor’s aging curve.Getting older in the acting industry comes with its own set of challenges — and some unexpected advantages. In this episode, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the realities of aging on stage and screen: the shifting dynamics of age in a cast, whether age brings respect or obsolescence, and how actors navigate playing older or younger than they really are.With humor, honesty, and a lot of lived experience, we tackle the lies actors are told about age, the truths we’ve learned along the way, and why the conversation matters now more than ever. Whether you’re fresh out of school or decades into your career, this episode will make you laugh, think, and hopefully feel a little less alone in the climb.
The Working Actor NYC
Your type gets you in the room. Your wheelhouse books it.Want to land more acting roles? It’s not just about “knowing your type.” In this episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin and Patrick break down the secret edge that helps actors actually book the room: your wheelhouse. You’ll learn what casting type really means, how it differs from your wheelhouse, and why understanding both is essential for building a consistent, hireable brand as an actor.We share personal examples, practical tools to discover your own type and wheelhouse, and how to strategically use them in auditions, headshots, reels, and networking. Whether you’re a student actor or a seasoned professional, this conversation will help you audition with confidence, stand out in crowded casting offices, and ultimately land more roles.Join our community at TheWorkingActorNYC.com and let us know how we're doing!
The Working Actor NYC
Rejection isn’t the end — it’s part of the job. Actors face rejection constantly — but what does it really mean, and how do you keep going when it hurts? In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, hosts Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down the truth about rejection: why it feels so personal, why it’s not a verdict on your talent or your worth, and how to shift your mindset so it doesn’t derail your career. You’ll learn 8 practical strategies for handling rejection as an actor, from building resilience and reframing the “no,” to protecting your mental health and staying motivated between auditions. Whether you’re a working actor in NYC, a student actor just starting out, or a performer looking to book more work, this episode will give you the tools to survive rejection and thrive in your acting career. The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. ? Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!
The Working Actor NYC
Stop guessing. Start submitting smart. Want a legit acting agent? Here's how to actually get one — and keep them. In this Part 2 deep dive of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down what really works when it comes to landing great representation in today’s industry. Now that your materials are ready (headshot, resumé, reel, website), what’s next? We walk you through the submission process — how to get your work in front of the right agents, at the right time, in the right way. No more sending your career into the void. Plus: how to maintain a great relationship with your rep once you’ve signed, and how to recognize the red flags that might mean it’s time to move on. ? The Working Actor NYC is your go-to resource for honest, real-world insight into building a career in acting. Every other Monday, catch our co-hosted Podcast episodes — packed with candid stories and laughs — and on alternating Mondays, dig into our Practical series: tactical solo episodes full of actionable tips and tools to help you work smarter, stay inspired, and build the acting career you actually want. ? Hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with insider intel, actor tools, and behind-the-scenes truths from the heart of the industry. You got this. Keep going!
The Working Actor NYC
Getting a good agent isn't luck - it's strategy.In this first half of our two-part deep dive, we're breaking down what it really takes to land a legit agent—and what you need to know before you even hit "send" on that email.We’re covering:What agents can and can’t do for your careerPatrick’s real-life stories from both Hollywood and New YorkThe exact materials you’ll need to stand out: headshots, resumés, reels, and websitesWhether you're just starting out or need a serious materials refresh, this episode has you covered—with Benjamin and Patrick’s signature humor and honesty.? Part 2 drops August 18th, where we’ll tackle the science of submissions: how to get your materials in front of the right people at the right time, build strong relationships with your rep, and know when it’s time to walk away.Subscribe now so you don’t miss it!
The Working Actor NYC
Ever walked out of an audition sweating bullets and replaying every word in your head? Same. Let’s fix that.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood break down the real, messy, very human anxiety that comes with being a working actor—and what we actually do about it.We cover 14 practical coping strategies that have helped us (and countless friends) navigate: ? Post-audition silence and uncertainty ? Financial instability when your next gig isn’t lined up ? The endless, soul-crushing comparison game …and all the other wild curveballs that make actor life both amazing and anxiety-inducing.With honesty, humor, and a few decades of collective experience, we share how to keep your sanity, stay creative, and keep moving forward—even on the hard days.If you’ve ever thought, “Is it just me?”—spoiler: it’s not. And you don’t have to white-knuckle it alone.
The Working Actor NYC
Feeling stuck? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive into procrastination and perfectionism — the two sneaky career killers actors face every day. ?We share why it happens, what it looks like specifically for actors today, and real strategies to break the cycle: accountability buddies, “schedule over mood,” and more.We’ve been there. We get it. And we’re here to help you get unstuck.? Subscribe for honest, funny and practical talk about making it as a working actor in NYC and beyond.
The Working Actor NYC
Watching the Tonys as an actor: Here's what hit us.What do the 2025 Tony Awards have to teach working actors who are… not currently at Radio City? In this episode, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes talk about everything from the incredible diversity of this year’s winners to the emotional rollercoaster of watching your friends sing live on national TV while you’re eating leftovers in sweatpants. ?♂️We dig into how representation really does matter, how comparison can sneak in if you’re not careful, and why seeing your peers succeed can actually be fuel—not failure. Spoiler: no one is immune to the occasional spiral, but there are ways through it.If you've ever watched the Tonys and thought, “Why not me?”—this one’s for you. ?
The Working Actor NYC
Booked a Broadway show… by writing it himself. What if the thing that books you next isn’t another audition—but something you create yourself?In this episode, I sit down with Tony-nominated actor and writer Hunter Bell, whose self-created musical [title of show] made it all the way to Broadway—and earned him a Tony nomination for Best Book of a Musical.But this conversation isn’t just about musicals. It’s about how creating your own work—at any scale—can unlock your career. A scene with friends. A self-tape you write. A skit. A social media post. A short film. A web series. You don’t need permission to get started—you just need to start.Hunter shares first-hand advice on taking creative control, building something from scratch, and what it means to make your own space in the industry. And since we’ve been friends for 19 years (I was Hunter’s understudy on [title of show]!), you’ll also get some laughs, some real talk, and a ton of insight.✨ Whether you're a working actor, a student, or someone hustling to level up—this episode will leave you inspired to make something today.? Subscribe to The Working Actor NYC for more interviews, insights, and industry motivation.
The Working Actor NYC
Okay—real talk. How many times have you been told, 'You’ve gotta network!'... and immediately felt your soul leave your body?I know it’s not just me, because some of you responded on our TikTok and Instagram pages that you feel the same way.Whether you're on set, in the rehearsal room, or grabbing a drink after class—there’s this pressure, this low-key panic that says, 'Be likable. Be remembered. Make a connection!'But here’s the thing: most of us are going about it totally wrong.Networking doesn’t have to be awkward, fake, or cringe. In fact, if it feels like networking… you’re probably not doing it right.In this episode, we’re flipping the script. We are sharing real, honest ways to connect—with casting, crew, directors, even other actors—without ever feeling like you’re selling yourself.This is for the actor who wants real relationships, not just contacts in their phone.
The Working Actor NYC
Acting is hard. Staying in love with it is harder. Here's what helps.In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, seasoned Broadway and TV veterans Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes dive deep into what keeps working actors inspired through decades of triumphs and trials. A must-watch for working actors, acting students, and passionate performers, this honest, hilarious, and moving conversation explores why we fall in love with acting—and how we stay in love with it. From discovering your artistic tribe and navigating toxic rehearsal rooms to the power of collaboration, storytelling, and personal impact, this episode is a heartfelt masterclass in resilience, creativity, and community in the professional acting world. Whether you're just starting out or grinding in NYC’s audition rooms, this is your reminder of why we do what we do.
The Working Actor NYC
? What IS a big break, really? In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, seasoned performers Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive deep into the elusive concept of the “big break” in an actor’s career. From getting discovered by legendary director Garry Marshall to navigating showcase contracts and life-changing auditions, this conversation is packed with hilarious, heartfelt, and honest insights every working actor, acting student, and aspiring star needs to hear. Whether you're grinding in regional theatre, hustling in NYC, or aiming for your first TV role, this episode is a must-listen for actors in film, television, and theatre who want to book more jobs, build lasting careers, and raise their profile in the industry. ?✨
The Working Actor NYC
? How do I use Social Media to help me build my acting career, without burning out? How Does “Type” Differ from “Personal Brand” for Actors? In this candid and insightful conversation, seasoned New York City actors Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack some of the most pressing questions for today’s working actors: how does your “type” differ from your personal brand — and how does that impact casting in film, television, and theatre? This episode is a must-watch for actors at all levels who are trying to navigate social media without ending up under the bed, book more work, and increase their visibility with casting directors. With decades of Hollywood, Broadway, theatre, and screen experience between them, Patrick and Benjamin explore how branding, consistency, and self-expression intersect with modern-day casting decisions. If you're a working actor, studying acting, or ready to level up your profile and get in more rooms, this video offers real talk, personal strategies, and a whole lot of laughs. ❤️?
The Working Actor NYC
Being an understudy is one of the most challenging and underappreciated roles in the acting world. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes dive deep into the highs, lows, and unexpected surprises of stepping into someone else’s shoes on stage. From nerve-wracking performances to career-changing moments, they share firsthand experiences and industry insights every actor—whether working, studying, or looking to book higher-profile roles—needs to hear. Tune in for backstage stories, expert tips, and a candid discussion on what it really means to be an understudy in theater!This conversation provides a fantastic look into the experiences of understudies in the theater world, with a lot of personal insights shared from both actors involved. The camaraderie, preparation, challenges, and even moments of invisibility—there's a depth of honesty and understanding here that comes with the territory of being an understudy. The light-hearted moments (like the story of garlic breath bonding) and the more serious reflections (the "invisibility cloak" and the weight of responsibility) create a full picture of what it's like to step into someone else's shoes while navigating the complexities of theater life.It also highlights some lesser-discussed aspects of the job, such as the emotional and physical challenges of understudying, the pressure to be ready, and the dynamics between understudies and the rest of the cast and crew. The balance between individuality and loyalty to the original performance is another compelling point, showing the nuance required in such a role.The personal stories about how understudies are sometimes sidelined or made to feel invisible, despite the effort and talent they bring to the table, are particularly striking. It speaks to a culture in the theater world that could do better to acknowledge and support these roles.There’s a deep understanding of the power of preparation and confidence too, and how important it is for an understudy to own their moment. The episode wraps up with a bit of humor and warmth, showing how embracing the moment, being present, and working together as a team are key to making these experiences work.Name Checked: Shirley MacLaine, Carol Haney, Peter Scolari, John Treacy Egan, Marilu Henner, Jim Parsons, Chris Sieber, Mario Andretti, Susan Blackwell
The Working Actor NYC
In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, veteran actors Patrick Richwood and Benjamin Howes delve into the evolving world of self-tapes and how they’ve become an essential part of booking more work, particularly in TV, film, and theater. They share personal insights, including how self-tapes have shaped their careers, how they manage tight turnaround times, and tips for ensuring your self-tape stands out. The conversation explores the challenges of virtual auditions, the importance of being adaptable with your performance, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of booking roles from self-tapes. If you're an actor looking to improve your self-taping process and book more roles that elevate your profile, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and real-world experiences. Tune in to discover how you can master the art of self-tapes and increase your chances of landing more high-profile work in the competitive world of acting. Name Checked: Jim Parsons, John Doyle, Lisa Birnbaum, Martin Short, Barbara Stanwyck, Susan Blackwell.
The Working Actor NYC
Working away from home and living out of a suitcase. Or two. And a backpack. Plus some boxes of stuff. Patrick and Benjamin discuss finding your place in a new town, what to pack, what to send ahead, and some survival strategies for long term away-from-home life.Name checked: Raymond J. Lee, Cameron Adams, Julia Cameron, Howard McGillin, Sal Mistretta, Angela Lansbury, George Hearn.
The Working Actor NYC
You still have to make money between acting jobs, so what do you do?- ACTUAL hustlers!- High school jobs- Can you do a show AND have a job?- Restaurant escapades- Mimes arent' scary!- Working for a world famous director- Teaching & coaching- Property princes & organizersName checked: Mike Nichols
The Working Actor NYC
Don't go stale, stay moist and tender. - Performing with talented friends - Stirring the energy soup - You're in charge Marjorie! - Get a hobby - Why do we do what we do? - Energy mindset - Doing it ugly until it's good - Ethel Merman. Just because .Name checked: Annabeth Gish, Colman Domingo, Ethel Merman
The Working Actor NYC
Getting to grips with Casting Directors! - Memories like elephants, for better or worse - Casting Directors can be good directors AND good eggs! - Building a relationship with Casting Directors - The importance of type - Television casting - The value of the open call/EPA/chorus call - Pay for play - Your old friend, mindset Name checked: Tara Rubin, Mel Brooks, Susan Stroman, Merri Sugarman, Bernie Telsey, Paul Hardt, Jay Binder, Gayle Seay, Scott Wojcik, Austin Pendleton, Rock Hudson
The Working Actor NYC
After the self tape comes the callback - IN PERSON! - Rituals about getting in the room - A chance to act, ONE NIGHT ONLY! - Mindset & chemistry - vs Self Tapes - How to start - The Reader - Great audition fails - Listening and taking adjustments - How much material is too much? Name checked: Al Pacino, Susan Blackwell, Tom Hanks, Alaska Thunderfxck, Sally Wilfert, Mel Brooks, Susan Stroman, Tina Landau, Merri Sugarman, Tara Rubin
