That One Audition with Alyshia Ochse

Today’s guest, Wynn Everett, is riding an incredible professional wave, having booked five shows this year. She takes us through her early years studying theater in Georgia, then landing a five-year job running the green room at Good Morning America—where she met everyone from bestselling authors to First Ladies and Hollywood stars. Those connections would later prove invaluable. Wynn reflects on the patience and clear intent it took to finally land representation at Gersh. She also shares some unforgettable “That One Audition” stories, including a hilarious rhythm argument with Aaron Sorkin over the word “tits” that secured her role in Charlie Wilson’s War. She also reveals her highly specific audition process, using music and physical “maps," and explains why her radical decision to move back to the Southeast became the best career choice she ever made. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Wynn Everett right here. Credits: Chad Powers M.I.A. Agent Carter Doom Patrol The Newsroom Merv DTF St. Louis This is Us Ordinary Joe Young Rock Sweet Magnolias The Walking Dead Teenage Bounty Hunters Modern Family Grey's Anatomy Charlie Wilson's War Guest Links: IMDB: Wynn Everett, Actress, Producer THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Notes aren’t criticism—they’re invitations. In this episode, Alyshia shares how to stop chasing “doing it right,” why feelings can mislead you, and how to treat casting adjustments as chances to discover something new. THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

In today’s episode, we sit down with the legendary William Stanford Davis, the Emmy-winning actor who’s stolen scenes (and hearts) as the unforgettable Mr. Johnson on Abbott Elementary. From his roots in St. Louis to chasing standup comedy in Los Angeles, William’s path to Hollywood is as inspiring as it is unexpected. He opens up about breaking into the industry, the lessons he learned from mentors like Martin Landau, and the risks that shaped his craft. And of course, we talk Abbott Elementary. Davis shares the story behind his iconic character, including a risky, improvised line in his audition that might have sealed the deal. He also gives us an insider look into the dynamic ensemble, the balance between script and improvisation, and how he approaches every set as a team player who makes sure to learn everyone’s name. These are the unforgettable stories that landed William Stanford Davis right here. Credits: Abbott Elementary Side Quest Snowpiercer Curb Your Enthusiasm Ray Donovan The Big Bang Theory Perry Mason It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Shameless Truth Be Told Swagger Chicago Med Guest Links: IMDB: William Stanford Davis, Actor, Director, Sound Department THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

This week on That One Audition, Alyshia unpacks why actors often ask the wrong questions in auditions. Story always comes before “teller,” and authenticity lives in the script itself. Learn how to build the house before decorating it — and why giving yourself to the story is what makes casting lean in. THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today, we're thrilled to catch up with an actor who truly embodies the "malleable" spirit of our industry, Brandon Jay McLaren. Since our last conversation in 2021, Brandon has been on an incredible run on hit shows like The Rookie, Snowfall, and The Cleaning Lady. Brandon shares how he masterfully juggled shooting Snowfall and The Rookie simultaneously, even requiring a wig transformation. Plus, Brandon shares what it was like working with his acting hero, Toni Collette, on his upcoming, genre-bending Netflix series, Wayward, which drops September 25th. We'll also delve into the current industry "lull," his pivot into creating his own projects, and his candid thoughts on self-tapes versus in-person auditions. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Brandon Jay McLaren right here. Credits: Snowfall The Killing Wayward The Rookie Graceland The Cleaning Lady Firefly Lane UnREAL Ransom Chicago Fire Tucker and Dale vs Evil She's the Man Guest Links: IMDB: Brandon Jay McLaren THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

In this episode, Alyshia dives into the trap of relying too heavily on character breakdowns—and why it can sabotage your auditions. Casting directors aren’t looking for someone to play at the breakdown; they’re looking for the actor who brings the puzzle piece they didn’t know they needed. Using Katherine LaNasa’s Emmy-winning performance in The Pitt as a powerful example, Alyshia shares how ignoring the breakdown and leaning into humility helped her stand out in a sea of actors all playing the same “note.” Plus, hear insights from past guest Sheila on how finding a single moment in the script can unlock choices that are uniquely yours. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to “give them what they want,” this episode is your reminder: you are the best asset in the room. Read the script first, trust your instrument, and stop chasing the breakdown. 🎭 Slaytember starts this week! Audit a class and see what it feels like to be on the other side of the casting table. 💪 Subscribe now for insightful discussions, empowering interviews, and practical advice to enhance your career longevity and satisfaction. THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today we sit down with Sheila Carrasco, who brings “Flower” to life on the hit CBS comedy Ghosts. After earning her BFA at NYU, she spent three years self-producing plays without an agent before pursuing an MFA at Harvard’s American Repertory Theater, where she honed her comedic skills and character work. That path led her to the Groundlings’ famed Sunday Company, where she found her voice and signed with CAA. Sheila shares the twists of her Ghosts audition including the COVID shutdown that nearly derailed it to the creative choices that shaped Flower. She also gives insights on ensemble improv and lessons learned from industry veterans, including her time as a stand-in on The Good Place. Her story is a testament to perseverance, finding your niche, and why it “takes 10 years to start working as an actor” and “20 years to build a career.” These are the unforgettable stories that landed Sheila Carrasco right here. Credits: Ghosts The Good Place Jane the Virgin American Housewife Life in Pieces The Odd Couple I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson #VanLife Guest Links: IMDB: Sheila Carrasco, Actress, Producer THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: For exclusive content surrounding this and all podcast episodes, sign up for our amazing newsletter at AlyshiaOchse.com. And don't forget to snap and post a photo while listening to the show and tag me: @alyshiaochse & @thatoneaudition SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th MAGIC MIND: 60% off ONEAUDITION60 THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly PATREON: @thatoneaudition CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com ITUNES: Subscribe to That One Audition on iTunes SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher EPISODE CREDITS: WRITER: Erin McCluskey WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings ASSISTANT: Elle Powell SOCIAL OUTREACH: Alara Ceri

Today’s episode offers a special glimpse into The Practice Track Membership, where actors not only train but also get the rare perk of connecting directly with industry professionals. In this conversation, our members had the chance to sit down with comedian, writer, and actor Michael Strassner, whose path into Hollywood is as unexpected as it is inspiring. Michael shares how a simple Instagram connection with Jay Duplass sparked the creation of an independent film based on his life. He opens up about the hurdles of indie filmmaking, the courage it takes to be vulnerable in your art, and the grind of navigating post-production. From promoting his film to facing rejection head-on, Michael’s story is packed with real, actionable advice for actors and creatives alike. ✨ Whether you’re dreaming of making your own work, building connections, or finding the confidence to put yourself out there, this heartfelt conversation is a reminder that opportunity often comes from where you least expect it. AND let this conversation be the invite that you need to find your community in THE PRACTICE TRACK MEMBERSHIP. Click below to get on the waitlist to join! 💪 Subscribe now for insightful discussions, empowering interviews, and practical advice to enhance your career longevity and satisfaction. THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com APPLE PODCASTS: Subscribe to That One Audition on Apple Podcasts SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher CREDITS: Host/Producer: Alyshia Ochse Writer: Maddie McCormick WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings SOCIAL: Alara Cerikcioglu

Ravi Patel returns to the podcast with a wide-ranging, candid conversation about a career that refuses to fit into a single lane. Since his last appearance, Ravi has been everywhere—from Animal Control and Ghosts (where he’s now a consulting producer) to new documentaries, a musical, and even Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test. Ravi shares how he’s learned to thrive in “chaos with poise,” balancing multiple creative pursuits while working fewer hours, prioritizing family, and taking bold, unconventional swings. From walking away from a bad offer only to land a starring role on Animal Control, to his approach to improv on set, Ravi offers an honest and often hilarious look at what it means to build a purpose-driven career in an ever-changing industry. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Ravi Patel right here. Credits: Animal Control Ghosts Wonder Woman 1984 Three Women Master of None Ravi Patel's Pursuit of Happiness Justified: City Primeval Transformers American Housewife Wrecked Grey's Anatomy Santa Clarita Diet Guest Links: IMDB: Ravi Patel, Actor, Writer, Producer THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com APPLE PODCASTS: Subscribe to That One Audition on Apple Podcasts SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher CREDITS: Host/Producer: Alyshia Ochse Writer: Maddie McCormick WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings SOCIAL: Alara Cerikcioglu

Casting directors don’t actually know what producers want at the start of the process — they’re sending in choices to help define the role. So if you’re trying to “play what they want,” you’ll end up too vague to stand out. In this episode, Alyshia shares why specificity and authenticity are the keys to landing in the selection pile, why breakdowns are written for reps (not you), and how to stop wasting money on things like “actor slates.” Plus, learn how Slaytember flips the script: instead of paying for workshops where casting judges you, you’ll work material for three weeks and then present it to award-winning CDs — including Victor Vasquez, Danny Gordon, and Jamie Castro — in a space where they’ve been invited to see YOU shine. Subscribe now for insightful discussions, empowering interviews, and practical advice to enhance your career longevity and satisfaction. THAT ONE AUDITION'S LINKS: SLAYTEMBER: Starting September 18th THE BRIDGE FOR ACTORS: Become a WORKING ACTOR THE PRACTICE TRACK: Membership to Practice Weekly CONSULTING: Get 1-on-1 advice for your acting career from Alyshia Ochse COACHING: Get personalized coaching from Alyshia on your next audition or role INSTAGRAM: @alyshiaochse INSTAGRAM: @thatoneaudition WEBSITE: AlyshiaOchse.com APPLE PODCASTS: Subscribe to That One Audition on Apple Podcasts SPOTIFY: Subscribe to That One Audition on Spotify STITCHER: Subscribe to That One Audition on Stitcher CREDITS: Host/Producer: Alyshia Ochse Writer: Maddie McCormick WEBSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings SOCIAL: Alara Cerikcioglu