That One Audition with Alyshia Ochse

Imagine moving to LA and just nine months later, finding yourself auditioning for, and landing, a role in the biggest movie ever, Top Gun! Chicago native, Jack Schumacher, will take us through his "ignorant bliss" audition process for Top Gun and the surreal moment he learned Tom Cruise was watching his audition tape. He also shares the excruciating, six-month audition saga to win the role of "Yancy Gray" in the new hit Netflix series, Ransom Canyon. Hear about the invaluable advice he received from Jon Hamm on the Top Gun set about listening and authenticity, his struggles with imposter syndrome, and why he believes falling on your face in acting class is crucial. Plus, he'll reveal his game-changing audition tips, including why he's not afraid to cut out his lines, inspired by Marlon Brando. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Jack Schumacher right here. Credits: Top Gun: Maverick Ransom Canyon 40 Dates and 40 Nights Welcome to Chippendales The Irrational Chicago P.D. S.W.A.T. Empire Guest Links: IMDB: Jack Schumacher, Actor 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

In this episode, "What if casting wasn’t about rejection — but about selection?"In this solo episode, Alyshia shares a powerful reality check on how to approach your auditions with authenticity, confidence, and story-driven choices that make you the answer casting directors are searching for. Learn how to: Casting directors don’t respond to “performed” acting — they respond to authenticity. This episode is all about how you can show up with truth, story, and specificity in every tape. 🔥 And if you’re ready to put this into practice, join us for Slaytember, a 3-week live training experience starting September 18th. You’ll tape, re-tape, and perform live in front of award-winning casting directors like Victor Vasquez, Danny Gordon, and Jamie Castro — with real feedback and a chance to showcase your work. 🎬 Only a few spots left! Can’t join as a full participant? Audit the class and learn exactly how casting works today. 💪 Subscribe now for insightful discussions, empowering interviews, and practical advice to enhance your career longevity and satisfaction. 🔗 Connect with That One Audition: 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 🌈 Subscribe today and be part of a community that celebrates resilience and passion in the world of acting! 🎙️ #ActorsResilience #RecoveryMindset #ThatOneAudition #PodcastJourney CREDITS: Host/Producer: Alyshia Ochse WRITER: Alyshia Ochse WE BSITE & GRAPHICS: Chase Jennings SOCIAL: Alara Cerikcioglu

From pre-med at Columbia to a Tony nomination on Broadway, Gabby Beans has carved out one of the most unique journeys in the industry. She shares how she navigated early setbacks (including being dropped by her first big manager) to build her career from the ground up with fearless off-Broadway work. That perseverance has more than paid off: Gabby earned a Tony Award nomination for her Broadway debut in The Skin of Our Teeth. Most recently, she’s stunned audiences on Broadway in Sam Gold’s Romeo + Juliet, taking on the dual roles of Mercutio and Friar Lawrence. On screen, Gabby’s credits are just as impressive—House of Cards, Succession, Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, and her recent breakout in Apple TV+’s Presumed Innocent alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, Ruth Negga, and Bill Camp. Gabby opens up about the highs and lows of her journey, why she loves Zoom chemistry reads, and the wisdom she’s gained from working with some of the industry’s most visionary directors. This episode proves that in a career where “nothing ever happens the way you think it will,” passion and persistence truly light the way. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Gabby Beans right here. Credits: Honey Don't! Presumed Innocent Succession Your Friends & Neighbors House of Cards The Good Fight ROMEO + JULIET (Broadway) Ray Donovan Blue Bloods Guest Links: IMDB: Gabby Beans, Actress, Writer, 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 COMING HOME COACHING: Come home to yourself 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

Description: 🎭 Actors often feel their biggest obstacle is themselves—but what if that’s just a limiting belief? In this episode, Alyshia talks with Melanie Curtis and Mark Collin, two world-class coaches who help people dissolve self-doubt and rewire the subconscious patterns holding them back. With expertise in trauma-informed healing, nervous system work, NLP, Reiki, and more, Melanie and Mark share how to break through the invisible walls of fear and step into unshakable self-belief—on stage, on set, and in life. 💪 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 COMING HOME COACHING: Come home to yourself 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

From the vibrant streets of Belize to the soundstages of Hollywood, Arlen Escarpeta has built a career defined by resilience, versatility, and heart. His path took him from performing arts schools to his first role on Boston Public and eventually to booking the “game-changer” American Dreams, where he learned to balance art with business and the importance of teamwork and human connection. In this episode, Arlen shares honest insights on sustaining a career, diversifying into voiceover and looping work, and his “tent pole” approach to building layered, specific characters—offering a rare, inspiring look at the resilience and craft behind a continuously working actor. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Arlen Escarpeta right here. Credits: FOUND The Oath David Makes Man The Magicians S.W.A.T. Final Destination 5 We Are Marshall I Am the Night Grimm Extant The Client List House American Dreams Guest Links: IMDB: Arlen Escarpeta, Actor, 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

Get ready for a truly insightful conversation with the incredible Jolene Purdy! After seeing her at a recent in-person audition, Alyshia immediately called her agent and declared, “I just met this actress—I swear to God she’s gonna get it!” From that moment, she knew Jolene had to come on the podcast. In today's episode, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories like that shared audition, where Jolene made bold, unexpected choices despite having very little information about the character. Her distinctive voice and interpretations often go against the writing—making it even better. That inventive spirit has fueled a career spanning her unforgettable debut in Donnie Darko to standout roles in Under the Dome, Orange Is the New Black, The White Lotus, and her latest work opposite Kevin Bacon in The Bondsman. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Jolene Purdy right here. CREDITS: The White Lotus The Bondsman WandaVision Firefly Lane The Magicians Orange Is the New Black The Resident Teachers Breaking Bad Superstore Under the Dome Glee Unseen Donnie Darko GUEST LINKS: IMDB: Jolene Purdy, Actress, Writer 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

In this episode, the industry is shifting — fast. Casting directors are under pressure, opportunities are shrinking, and actors are feeling the heat. In this power-packed solo episode, Alyshia breaks down exactly what’s happening in casting right now and how you can stay sharp, focused, and ready for the roles that are out there. If you’ve been self-taping into the void, wondering what stands out and how to get seen — this is your wake-up call. Alyshia shares what casting is really looking for, why specificity and confidence matter more than ever, and how to practice like it’s game day. 🔥 PLUS: Get the inside scoop on Slaytember — a 3-week live experience starting September 18th that puts you face-to-face with top casting directors, real notes, re-tapes, and a chance to showcase your work. ✨ Past guests include Jennifer Cooper, Felicia Fasano, Victor Vazquez, Alexis Winter & Chrissy Fiorilli-Ellington. 📌 Spots are limited. Link to apply is in the show notes. 💪 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

This episode, we’re following the wildly talented Courtney Taylor down her own self-made "yellow brick road." From her early days in Philly to a practical pivot to criminal justice and sociology in Delaware, acting wasn’t always on Courtney’s radar. But thanks to her movie-loving dad and a growing passion for performance, she eventually found her way to an agent—and a Marvel audition that changed how she approached her career. In this episode, Courtney shares how she carved her own path in the industry, from booking a co-star on Insecure by ad-libbing her way into a fully realized character, to landing a direct offer from Quinta Brunson via DMs for Abbott Elementary. We dive into her scene-stealing comedy work on Shrinking, her bold shift into drama on Ballard, and how she embraces stillness, research, and intuition in her performances. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Courtney Taylor right here. CREDITS: Ballard Abbott Elementary Shrinking Insecure Neon Killing It Send Help Single & Anxious The Company You Keep The Invitation GUEST LINKS: IMDB: Courtney Taylor, Actress, Director, Writer 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 dive into the remarkable journey of a crossover star Mariana Treviño, whose path defies convention and proves that an actor’s career is as personal as it is unpredictable. Mariana shares how her love for the craft—not money or fame—drew her in, from early days in New York to an organic rise to stardom back in Mexico. A breakthrough role in musical theater shifted her mindset from acting for fun to acting for a living. In this episode, she reflects on embracing mistakes in auditions, how “work begets work,” and navigating global representation after A Man Called Otto. Mariana also shares insights from working with icons like Tom Hanks and Owen Wilson, creating intimacy on set, and the challenges of performing in a second language. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Mariana Treviño right here. CREDITS: Stick A Man Called Otto Narcos: Mexico Mentrias, The Series Overboard GUEST LINKS: IMDB: Mariana Treviño, Actress 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: 48% off ONEAUDITION20 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 welcome back a truly special guest—one of only three returning guests in our show’s history—the incredible actor Alain Uy. Since his last appearance in January 2021, Alain’s career has soared, with standout roles in The Cleaning Lady, Power IV, and most recently Ballard. But here’s the twist: despite this impressive success, Alain candidly admits to quitting acting multiple times a year—sometimes even right before a premiere. Alain offers invaluable insight into his creative process. He shares his technical self-tape approach—including the unexpected power of the cold read—and how embracing imperfection can create audition magic. You’ll learn his simple but transformative framework for breaking down any scene as an argument, negotiation, or seduction. These are the unforgettable stories that landed Alain Uy right here. CREDITS: Ballard Station 19 True Detective Grey's Anatomy The Morning Show Power Book IV: Force The Cleaning Lady The Paper Tigers Helstrom Grimm Pure Genius The Last Ship Rizzoli & Isles GUEST LINKS: IMDB: Alain Uy, Actor, Producer, Director 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: 48% off ONEAUDITION20 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