"From the two agencies
that called me back
I signed with
The Mine.


Thanks so much for all your wisdom, time and “inner monologues” guiding me
in the right direction.


I love you Paul!"

-- A'LISA MILES, actress
(Access to Agents Participant)

"Paul Russell's
constructive criticism,
and reality of the acting profession is uniquely
detailed and incredibly
truthful."

-- BERNARD TELSEY, casting director
(Rent, Sex & The City: The Movie, Wicked)

"Since completing Access to Agents, I received a call-back to audition for Schiowitz, Connor, Ankrum & Wolf, followed by an interview, and the offer to sign with their agency!"

Thanks again for the insight and opportunity!!"

Michael Sample
actor
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"I just got a call from Independent Artists Agency and now I'm signed!!

I cannot thank you enough for all your help, understanding, support and kindness. You, sir, are a prince!

It’s refreshing to know that there’s someone out there who’s willing to go to bat for actors and who provides a supportive environment and the tools to help us succeed, or at least keep going with a sense of empowerment and positivity.

It’s hard to stay in this business and keep your sense of optimism, but you certainly make it ‘easier’. Thank you for all that you do and for the spirit of kindness that you do it with."

Christina Delainie
actress
(Access to Agents & Private Student)

"From the two agencies that called me back I signed with The Mine. I love you Paul!

Thanks so much for all your wisdom, time and “inner monologues” guiding me in the right direction. As this was my first try to make a real go of it in NYC, this class was just what I needed to get inspired and get my ass in gear.

I’m truly taking all of your advice to heart and have already begun to make changes. I know with your voice in my ear, I’ll make the best choices. Thanks again!"

A'lisa Miles
actress
(Access to Agents - non musical & musical theater versions - Student)

"Thanks to you I jumped a huge hurdle which is representation!

Judy Boals Talent & Literary called me back and now I'm signed. Thank you."

Michael Givens
actor
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"I don't know if there are proper words to express my gratitude to you for your "tough love" approach to my career.

This business is full of shysters, con-artists and souls so jaded art will sadly never reach them; you however are the Real McCoy. Beneath your gruff exterior, staunch professionalism and hard-ass perfectionism is a charismatic, discerning and inspired genius. I feel extremely fortunate to have had the good sense to trust you...

Because of your sound (and at times dutifully painful) counsel, I now feel prepared to present myself to anyone, no matter the situation, with poise and confidence. You're an actor's dream.

With whatever comes of my career, in my life there are a handful of people whose enthusiasm and inspiration keep me going during the rough times, and I am honored to count you among those damn few."

Nicole Poole
actress
(Private & Access to Agents Student)

"I wanted to take a few seconds and say "Thanks!". Whether or not I get signed, I have learned quite a bit about marketing and have also been fortunate to develop friendships with all of my fellow classmates. You have this great ability to speak with authority and experience without coming off as a "know it all".

You make the environment safe which allows creativity and growth. You also give the actors an environment to make choices (right or wrong ones) and you make suggestions and ask questions which make us validate our acting choices and realize whether they are "safe choices" or honest ones.

The best thing for me, however, is that I have been able to meet and talk with you. I have, and continue to, read your posts and your blog. I have immense respect for what you do and the manner in which you do it. You seem to have the same "blue collar" work ethic and mentality towards the business that I do. While making money doing this career path would be great, doing great work is equally important.

So thanks for everything! I genuinely appreciate you and all that you continue to do. Thanks for your patience, compassion, sense of humor, honesty, wisdom, experience, and dedication to the Arts."

UPDATE:

"My Barry Kolker interview went well. I signed.

As I've mentioned countless times, I greatly appreciate all that you do and all that you offer people. It's not just about the workshops or the book, but rather, you really inspire people to want to be the best for themselves and, in a great way, for you.

My only regret is that people don't take advantage of the opportunities that you present them."

Alex Dittmer
actor
(Access to Agents Student)

"Thank you so much for referring me to Independent Artists Agency... It was wonderful meeting with them and even more wonderful signing with them!

Reading your book and taking your class has been invaluable. Thank you!"

Benjamin J. McHugh
actor
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"Your Access to Agents class was really a wonderful experience. Between your book, your guidance, your staff and the high quality agents you bring in, it’s really an amazing opportunity.

The knowledge I've gained from your class was afresh perspective on the business. I really appreciate your honesty and guidance. It was just the honesty I needed at this point in my career.

With my new found wisdom and confidence I look forward to seeing you again ar the the audition table. Thanks!"

UPDATE:

"I received a call from Schiowitz, Connor, Ankrum and Wolf Talent Agency (who were on your panel). The call was for a representation audition next week.This is such a wonderful opportunity for me and I just wanted to thank you for your guidance and positivity during your class."

Jason Rosoff
actor
(Access to Agents Student)

"Thank you so much for your time, honesty, guidance, and encouragement during the Access to Agents seminar.

I now have a more realistic perspective about the business and an intelligent business plan that will produce results I want for my career.

Never have I felt as satisfied with an investment of time and money as I feel about your class. I will be recommending your book, blog, and seminars to every actor I know!

I wish you all the best!"

Stephanie Caird
actress
(Access to Agents Student)

"I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your book and your class. Learning the little tricks, tips and ins/outs of the business has helped me to feel back in control of my own career.

Your direction and insight has truly empowered and inspired me! My confidence in myself and my craft is back and better than ever and I feel like I can take on the world! Kind of crazy I got all of that from just a book and in a four week class but I did – and I have you to thank for that.

It was an absolute pleasure to have met and have briefly worked with you. I certainly hope our paths may cross again soon! Thank you again so much for everything!!!"

Katie Martin
actress
(Access to Agents Student)

"We actors meet so many coaches and enablers along our journey but you are someone who will always stand out for your sincere support for us.

I found you by way of Twittergate because of how you stood up behind the actors. But I was so surprised between all your b’yotchin about typos and Special Skills to learn how truly sweet and caring you were towards us.

In the three short weeks you also turned us into a supportive group and towards each other. I honestly rooted for my “classmates” as much as I did for myself on the agent night. What could have easily been a competitive pressure environment you somehow made into a bonding experience. I will never forget your encouraging face behind Nicole, the reader. It meant so much. My feedback from the agents was spot on AND motivating… and I’ve got serious PRC tools to work with!

Thank you again for being so concerned and caring with us all. It means the world!"

Tara Casatuta
actress
(Access to Agents Student)

"Thank you so much for your time and insight over the past month. I certainly learned more about the “business” over the past four weeks than I did in any other class I’ve attended.

Thank you also for your supportive comments and insight on my scene. I hope our paths cross again soon."

Perryn Pomatto
actor
(Access to Agents Student)

"I can’t begin to express how much I enjoyed your class. I now have the tools I need to continue to pursue my goals and the agency (Independent Artists) to boot!

Thank you so very much for your insight, your encouragement, and your recommendation."

Crystal Kellogg
actress
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"After years of being an aimless actor I’m thankful for your seminar and its motivating effects.

I wasn’t sure what to expect before the seminar and was extremely pleased to find someone who wasn’t just cashing a check in the name of networking. Your desire to help actors is evident to all and if I may speak for many others, we very much appreciate it.

I’ve enclosed a small token of my appreciation. I hope it motivates you as you have motivated me. As an actor, I would selfishly prefer that you stick to dispensing show-biz wisdom until the cows come home.

Thanks again and best wishes."

Trey Zeigler
actor
(Access to Agents Student)

"You deserve a thank you!

You have opened my eyes to so much with your class and your book and I am so eager and excited for what my future may hold for me!

Your light-hearted and matter-of-fact approach to this industry has made the journey before me appear less daunting. Thank you for your time, your advice and encouragement!"

Erin Kelly Phillips
actress
(Access to Agents Student)

"Thank you so much for all of your helpful and insightful words of wisdom, guidance and advice. After reading your book and taking your class, I feel so much more prepared to market myself in this competitive industry.

I appreciated both your honesty about the business and your willingness to help actors gain the tools to improve.

I was actually thankful to have been chosen for the hot seat on the agent interview day because – while it was tough – I now feel better prepared to go in for an interview.

For me, your class was a bit like being given the recipe to the secret sauce and I’ve recommended both your book and the class to my students and friends. I really hope more people will take advantage of this awesome opportunity.

Thank you so much!"

Katie Irene Powell
actress
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"I cannot thank you enough for everything I learned from you!

Your honest insight is a thing to be valued in this business and I am incredibly grateful for it. Your devotion to giving actors the tools that they need to advance their careers is not only refreshing but deeply appreciated. I hope to work with you again one day. Thank you for everything!"

Blaire Whitney
actress
(Access to Agents Student)

"In this crazy world of show business it is a great comfort to know and work with people like you. People who take time to help others. People who share their knowledge. People who sincerely want others to succeed.

Thank you for giving me the kick-in-the-pants I needed. From your seminar I will take with me much valuable information that will only help me in my journey."

Jarrett Mallon
actor
(Access to Agents - musical theater version - Student)

"Thank you for the time and attention you've given me over the past four weeks. My confidence in regard to submission materials has risen dramatically... I'll be a force to be reckoned with."

UPDATE:

"Hey Paul,
Just wanted you to know, since I've upgraded my submission materials I've been called in by: Stephanie Klapper, The Wilma Theatre, and The Actors Theatre of Louisville.

Oh, I booked the Actors Theatre of Louisville gig.

Thanks"

Justin Holcomb
actor
(Access to Agents Student)