Social Media Tedium

Hey there, fabulous actors! Welcome back to Casting Actors Cast—the podcast that shines a light on your talent without frying your brain. I’m Jeffrey Dreisbach, your host, casting director, teacher, and lifelong fan of smart actors who want to build a career… not just a following.

So, today’s hot topic?

Social Media as a Branding Tool—Without Feeling Like an Influencer.

You know what I’m talking about. You're told to "build your presence," "grow your brand," "engage your audience"—and suddenly you’re spiraling into a vortex of hashtags, ring lights, and lip-sync challenges you didn’t ask for.

Don’t worry. We’re going to break it all down today—with some humor, real tips, and absolutely no dance routines required.

Segment 1: The Social Media Mindset – 4 minutes“It’s a Tool, Not Your Career”

Alright, let’s start with a little mindset shift.

 Social media is a tool—not your career.

You’re an actor, not a content farm. You don’t have to post every waking moment or become a brand mascot for oat milk just to be seen. Think of social media the way a stage manager thinks of gaffer tape—it’s there to support you, not become you.

Use it like:

• A highlight reel

• A digital business card

• A peek into your creative world

You’re not competing with influencers who make six figures to promote teeth whitening kits. You’re here to let casting, collaborators, and creatives see who you are and what you do.

So let’s agree: No pressure to be perfect. No pressure to post constantly. And no pressure to film your dog doing impressions of Daniel Day-Lewis. (Although… if they can, call me.)

Segment 2: Picking Your Platform – 3 minutes“Where Should You Live Online?”

Let’s talk strategy. You don’t have to be everywhere. Pick platforms that actually make sense for you and your goals.

 InstagramThink of it as your visual resume.

• Post headshots, rehearsal pics, short reels of monologues or scenes.

• Use Stories to show your personality without the pressure of permanence.

TikTokNot just for dances.

• Showcase character types, quick scenes, or even behind-the-scenes content.

• Build niche communities. There's a place for “actors who cry on cue” and “actors who always play the quirky roommate.”

 LinkedInYes. Really.

• Post about bookings, training, industry events.

• Connect with other actors, coaches, producers, even casting folks.

  
  

  Just… keep it professional. No bikini thirst traps. Unless it’s for an aquatic Hamlet reboot.

Pro tip: Pick one or two platforms max. Better to show up consistently on one than half-heartedly on five.

Segment 3: What to Post – 5 minutes“Authenticity is the New Aesthetic”

So now you’re wondering, “But what do I post?” You don’t have to be ‘interesting’—you just have to be interested.

Here are some guilt-free ideas:

✅ Behind-the-Scenes Moments

• “Here's how I prepped for today’s audition for ‘Detective with Emotional Baggage.’”

• Snapshots of your self-tape setup. (Yes, even the towel draped over a lamp.)

✅ Performance Clips

• Monologue reels

• Scene excerpts

• Voiceover samples if you're mic'd u

  
  
  
  

  p and fancy

✅ Process + Progress

• Lessons from acting class

• Quotes that inspire you

• Challenges you’ve overcome (“That time I forgot my lines and pretended I was choking on a muffin. It worked.”)

✅ Funny Outtakes

• Show your human side. People love bloopers. And by people, I mean casting directors with a sense of humor.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being you, consistently and creatively.

Segment 4: Engaging Without Overexposing – 4 minutes“You Don’t Have to Be Online 24/7 to Be Present”

Let’s talk boundaries. Because if you’re not careful, you’ll blink and realize you’ve spent 3 hours watching a hamster make pancakes.

Here’s how to stay connected without losing your mind:

 Set a Time Limit

• 15 minutes a day to post or engage. Done.

 Start Conversations

• Try a Q&A: “What’s your most awkward audition moment?”

• Or a poll: “Would you rather play a villain or a romantic lead?”

• Your followers = potential collaborators.

 Log Off Without Guilt

• Social media doesn’t define your worth.

• You’re allowed to not post for a week. Or a month. You’re not a toaster oven—you don’t need to be “on” all the time.

Segment 5: Build Your Brand, Not a Facade – 3 minutes“You Are the Brand. Not a Cartoon Version of You.”

Your brand isn’t something you “make up.” It’s already there.

Ask yourself:

• What kinds of roles do I love playing?

• What adjectives describe me as an actor? (Funny, intense, grounded, bold, etc.)

• How can I reflect that in my posts?

 Example:If you’re the grounded, dramatic type—maybe your posts lean more emotional, thoughtful, or behind-the-scenes.If you’re a comedic actor—lean into the absurdities of the actor's life. Self-tape fails? Share 'em!

Stay authentic. No need to invent a personality. You’re not a soda brand. You’re an actor with a heartbeat.

Closing – 2 minutes🎙️Alright, friends. Let’s land this digital plane.

Social media is your tool. Not your master.It’s here to:

• Reflect your artistry

• Build your network

• Show your growth

But it should never make you feel like you’re in a 24/7 audition for "America’s Next Top Influencer."

Post when you want. Share what matters. Be real. And then?

 Put the phone down. Go act. Go create. Go live. You’ll have way more to post about when you come back.

Call to ActionIf you found this helpful, would you do me a quick favor?

• Share this episode with an actor friend who’s stuck in the scroll.

• Tag me @CastingActorsCast if you post your favorite takeaway.

• And don’t forget to subscribe for more real talk, real tools, and real love for your actor journey.

Until next time…

Stay bold.

Stay booked.

And please… stay off TikTok after midnight.