Professional celebrity acting coach with the expertise and industry insider experience to help you book your next role and fast-track your career in Film and Television.

Find out more about Carolyn

• When did you start practicing? How did this passion find you

  Acting found me when I was just five years old. My siblings and I would put on little holiday plays, and even back then, I was the one who absolutely loved it, no matter what part I got to play. At eight, I took things a step further-I wrote, produced, and starred in a Christmas play at my school called The Girl Who Didn't Believe in Christmas. I convinced my friends to join, and from that moment on, I knew storytelling was something I wanted to do forever.
  
  But my journey wasn't always smooth. In junior high, I auditioned for a play and didn't make it. I was crushed, but that experience taught me my first big lesson in acting: if at first you don't succeed, keep trying. So I did. The next year, I landed a role in How to Eat Like a Child, and I began to build a little theater community that made me feel like I belonged.
  
  Then, one day, my mom surprised me by taking me to a modeling contest at the Mall of America. I never imagined I'd win, but out of 400 girls, I was chosen to go to New York for Ford Models, representing beauty from the Midwest. That was my first time on TV. From there, I got my first agent in Minnesota, took classes, booked local jobs, and, eventually, I found myself in Los Angeles at 15 for pilot season. I left high school in the middle of the year, even got kicked out for being gone too long-but it was worth it because, within two weeks, I booked my first TV show.
  
  Yet, I kept struggling with auditions. I loved acting, but memorizing lines and trying to get every word right felt forced and took away the magic I once felt. I searched for years to find a teacher who understood how to make acting feel alive and real again. Finally, after almost a decade of searching, I found my mentor who showed me what it truly meant to be a storyteller. I studied with her for over ten years, and with her guidance, I worked across every corner of the industry-from studio films to indie projects, commercials, and even voiceover. I got to experience the ups and downs of this business, and each one taught me something.
  
  Then came one of the most unexpected and fulfilling moments of my career: my mentor asked if I'd be open to teaching. I gave it a try, and I was hooked. Teaching allowed me to pass on the lessons I had learned, helping other actors find their voice and purpose. When I became a parent, I began coaching privately and found an even deeper connection to teaching.
  
  One day, I sat in on an online acting class and was heartbroken seeing actors not getting the support they deserved. I knew I had to change that. That's why I started Red Carpet Acting Studio-to give actors a place where they could truly grow, find themselves, and feel supported in the same way I searched for during my journey. Now, my mission is to empower other actors to tell their stories with the same passion that's guided me all my life.

• Which artists or works affect you the most?

  The artists and works that move me the most are those that prioritize the power of story above all else. I always tell my students that the story will save you because, ultimately, story is king. What resonates with us isn't an actor who's simply delivering lines or trying to 'get it right'-it's witnessing someone who is truly experiencing the world of the story.
  
  I guide my students to think not like actors, but like human beings. There's no 'character' to hide behind; instead, I encourage them to see it as themselves in an imaginary, real-life situation, engaging in a conversation with purpose. This direct connection allows them to experience the story rather than perform it, which is what impacts an audience. When an actor is authentically experiencing something, that truth radiates and pulls viewers into the story in a way that's impossible to ignore.
  
  In my teaching, I address the unique challenges actors face and provide specific, tailored solutions. I get to know each student on a deep level-their strengths, their essence, and where they need growth. Together, we explore stories that will develop them not only as actors but as storytellers who can deliver deeply meaningful work. We work toward a long-term vision while ensuring they have the tools to succeed in the here and now, whether for an audition tomorrow or a role that could shape their career.
  
  Ultimately, these are the artists and the kind of work that touch us most-those who are fully immersed, vulnerable, and experiencing the world of the story. It's that authenticity that leaves a lasting impact.

• What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in acting?

  Success in acting comes down to mastering two distinct but interconnected areas: the craft itself and navigating the industry. Each requires its own set of qualities and skills.
  
  
  On the Craft:
  
  First, an actor must understand what their job entails and how to excel at it. This involves recognizing the challenges of acting and learning the solutions to those challenges. A great coach frames this in a way that empowers you, much like an athlete. It's not just about the technique but also about the mentality -what and how you think about what you do.
  
  A coach should guide you towards realizing your full potential as a storyteller. You need a clear process to understand your work, your strengths, and your weaknesses, continuously pushing you to the next level. Key qualities include accessibility, innocence, vulnerability, a childlike curiosity, and imaginative creativity.
  
  Commitment to daily practice is crucial. You should work on long-term projects that develop you artistically for a distinguished career, alongside short-term projects that prepare you for immediate auditions. I personally tailor long-term stories for my students and continually challenge them with short-term stories to sharpen their audition skills.
  
  
  Navigating the Industry:
  
  Here, resilience and toughness are paramount. I often say you need "the heart of a baby, the hide of a rhino." This means maintaining your passion and sensitivity while developing a thick skin to handle rejection and the harsh realities of the business.
  
  In essence, to succeed, actors must blend these artistic and professional skills, fostering both their craft with dedication and their career with strategic resilience.

• What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  To stay focused on creative projects, I'd advise on a few key strategies. First, instill a sense of urgency. There should be a deadline, a timeline. Completing a project is as vital as starting one. You can create this urgency by setting a deadline or finding your internal "I must." Rainer Maria Rilke talks about this necessity in "Letters to a Young Poet." Ask yourself, what is your "I must"? Why is acting or writing urgent for you? What's your mission?
  
  Next, make your creative work a priority. It should be one of your top daily and weekly commitments. Set aside time, use a timer if necessary, and work on your project, shutting out all distractions. Reflect on what your top three priorities are in life right now. For me, my work as an acting coach is one of them, so I dedicate a significant portion of my time to it.
  
  Think of it like going to the gym; there's often resistance, but once you start, you're usually glad you did. The same applies to creative projects. You don't need to feel inspired to start; sometimes, inspiration comes from the act of doing. There's a famous quote by writer Faulkner "I Only Write When Inspiration Strikes. Fortunately It Strikes at Nine Every Morning." The joke is that he works whether he's feeling like it or not. It's essential to disciple yourself to work daily, especially early in your career. That's part of paying your dues and becoming an expert. Having a structured routine helps immensely.
  
  Also, maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your creativity. As Jordan Peterson points out, waking up at the same time each day is excellent for mental health, and never skip breakfast; it's crucial for cognitive function, which you need for strategic and creative thinking.
  
  Lastly, you often have to say no to other things to say yes to your creative work. Prioritizing your project might mean declining other commitments or distractions.

• How would you describe your passion for acting coaching, and how does it make you feel?

  My passion for acting coaching is boundless and profound. It energizes, inspires, and thrills me. When I'm coaching, I lose all sense of time; I could literally spend every moment of my day doing this and feel completely fulfilled.
  
  I always communicate to my actors that my goal is to add value, provide them with practical tools, and deliver tangible results. I'm incredibly passionate about empowering young artists, shedding new light on the craft in ways they've never encountered before. Most actors I work with, once they grasp my teaching methods, feel like they've been searching for this approach all along and have finally found it.

• What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  I'm particularly proud of several roles that have defined my career. Firstly, my role in the TV show "Agent X" opposite Sharon Stone stands out. Booking one of the lead roles there was a dream come true. It was an incredible learning experience, working alongside legends like Sharon Stone, Jeff Hephner, Mike Colter, and James Earl Jones. As a lead, I felt it was crucial to be a leader both professionally and creatively.
  
  Another achievement I'm proud of is my role in the hit TV show "Castle" alongside Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic. Jumping at the opportunity to work with Nathan, who's a comedic icon, was fantastic. Being part of such a well-run show and contributing to television history was truly special.
  
  Lastly, starring in the independent film "The Grey Lady" with Eric Dane was a unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Filming on Nantucket Island pushed me beyond my limits into new storytelling territories. Working with Eric Dane and Natalie Zea was nothing short of amazing.

• Have you ever been surprised by a student, either by their ability or their quick progression?

  All the time! Each actor has their own unique journey. For some, it might take a while, and then suddenly, something just clicks. Others take to the work immediately, like a duck to water. I'm always surprised by how each person learns and grows, which is why I adopt a custom-tailored approach with each of my clients. No two actors are the same; they all have different needs, strengths, and weaknesses.

• Being a Superprof is an art. What is Your secret?

  My secret? Well, it's a combination of three key elements. Firstly, I've accumulated over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, which gives me a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in this business.
  
  Secondly, my background as an actor has been pivotal. I was fortunate enough to train with one of the greatest acting mentors to ever live, whose teachings have profoundly shaped my approach to coaching.
  
  And the third part? It's my genuine, authentic passion for transforming actors into empowered storytellers. I believe every actor has the potential to be a powerhouse in their craft, and I'm committed to helping them realize that.
  
  Lastly, my true secret is my teaching style. I employ a kind, playful approach that's all about building confidence. Unlike some teachers who might indulge in ego or belittle students, my methods are rooted in empathy, kindness, playfulness, curiosity, and real empowerment. It's about fostering an environment where actors can explore, grow, and shine without fear of judgment.