S4E196: From Auditions to Film Sets: Building a Sustainable Acting Career

Get Reelisms Podcast Ep. 196: Zuzena Magsino on Breaking In, Community, AD Life, and AI in Film On episode 196 of the Get Reelisms podcast, hosts Adam Chase Rani and Christine Chen interview actor and assistant director Zuzena Magzino about her path into entertainment, from show choir and dance auditions to overcoming fear of being recorded and posting social content. After a five-year hiatus and serious health issues, she returned via a 2021 TikTok Dunkin’ casting call, booked the spot, and later moved to LA, emphasizing the importance of supportive circles, networking, persistence, and the reality that even “set” celebrities may struggle without financial literacy and protection from exploitation. The conversation covers filmmaking community, conflict resolution and chaos management on set, sexism and ego problems among crew, and concerns about AI replacing actors while acknowledging AI as a tool. They close with promotion for Getreelisms.com merchandise and an online film school.   About Christine W Chen: **Christine W. Chen** is a Taiwanese American filmmaker, Academy member (Short Films Branch), and versatile producer, director, and writer known for bold, character-driven storytelling. Through her production company, **Moth to Flame**, she has created award-winning short films, features, and branded content—including *Erzulie*, a feminist swamp thriller that had a limited theatrical run and now streams on major platforms. In addition to her directorial work, Christine is a seasoned **DGA 1st Assistant Director** and co-author of *Get Reelisms* and *ABCs of Filmmaking*, as well as the co-host of the *Get Reelisms Podcast*. For more information about Christine Chen: christinewchen.com About Adam Rani: **Adam Chase Rani** is a production designer and set dresser working in the Austin film market, bringing a sharp eye for visual storytelling and practical creativity to every project. During the pandemic, he co-founded the *Get Reelisms Podcast* with Christine Chen to foster community within the film industry. Together, they’ve built a platform that blends education, candid conversations, and industry insights to help filmmakers connect, learn, and grow.   About Guest Zucena Magsino: Zucena is a queer mixed Filipino-American actor from San Diego based in Los Angeles since 2024. They’ve recently studied at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and can be seen in an array of music videos, short films, vertical series, and TV mini series. Their lead role in Charlene, a Kilam Production, written by Mai Briggs premiered at LA Shorts International Film Festival 2026. And their series-regular debut as Leah in Marriage Material is now streaming on Apple TV for the US & Canada and Amazon Prime worldwide. When they’re not acting they’re creating their own projects, helping their community, or on set as an AD!    WEBISODE version of the Podcast   00:00 Fame Money Myth 00:43 Podcast Intro 01:09 Meet Zuzena 02:49 From Dance to Camera Fear 04:25 Social Media and Corporate Detour 06:27 Health Crisis Reset 06:54 Dunkin TikTok Breakthrough 08:45 Supportive Sets and Circles 14:27 Networking and Hustle Mindset 15:50 Making It Takes Years 17:26 Actors Not Set for Life 19:36 Brand Ownership and IP 20:45 AI Actors and Ethics 22:00 AI as Tool Not Replacement 23:47 Conflict as Collaboration 24:23 Miscommunication on Set 25:21 Egos and Drama Queens 25:48 Veteran PA Meltdown 28:25 Second AD Maid Mode 29:33 Safety and Respect 31:08 Tranquility Through Chaos 33:55 Stern Voice and Strikes 35:12 Women Leading on Set 39:04 Collaboration and Continuity 41:17 Landing the Plane 41:30 Housekeeping and Film School [Official Get Reelisms Page](getreelisms.com) Get Reelisms Amazon Store Instagram