In this episode of Podcasting Buffalo, the crew takes the show on the road for the first time — recording live from the brand-new home of Expressway Buffalo Cinema Rentals.

The crew sits down with Ben Mannarino and Elliot Spitzer to discuss the company’s evolution in Buffalo, NY — from the early days of Buffalo Camera to becoming a full-service cinema rental and production support powerhouse. They share their personal journeys, the growth of the local film industry, and how Expressway Buffalo has expanded into a true filmmaking pit crew — providing camera, grip, electric, trucking, and professional crew support for productions across the region.

An inside look at the infrastructure powering Buffalo’s film momentum.

In the Season 2 premiere of Podcasting Buffalo, the crew welcomes actor Abraham Benrubi — affectionately known to many as “Santa” from Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story. With a career spanning decades, Abraham is best known for his breakout role on ER, along with memorable turns in Parker Lewis Can’t Lose, George of the Jungle, Without a Paddle, Robot Chicken, and more.

Abe dives into his early career, the reality of sustaining consistent work in Hollywood, and why — even after years of success — he chose to return to acting classes to refine and reshape his craft. He shares invaluable advice for actors and filmmakers alike, including his now-legendary philosophy of the “3 Ps,” and delivers a passionate message about not waiting for Hollywood — but creating constantly, wherever you are.

The conversation turns to Buffalo’s creative momentum, with Abe praising Western New York’s crews, work ethic, and the undeniable passion of Bills Mafia. The crew highlights local gems like the Buffalo 48 Hour Film Project, Amazing Fantasy Fest, and the thriving WNY horror community — a genre space that fits perfectly with Abe’s creative roots.

An inspiring, grounded, and energizing kickoff to Season 2.

This week, the Podcasting Buffalo crew welcomes William Mattar of William Mattar Law Offices for a special edition episode all about branding, marketing, and the power of reinvention. A true Buffalo icon, Bill shares how his creative commercials and unforgettable jingle turned his firm into a household name—and what it takes to build a brand that truly stands out.

From viral campaigns to staying relevant in a changing media landscape, this episode is packed with lessons on keeping your business authentic and memorable. And of course, we close things out with a bonus recast of the courtroom comedy classic My Cousin Vinny!

This week, the crew kicks things off by talking about the iconic yearly William Mattar commercials—a Buffalo pop culture staple—and the honor Casting Buffalo has had in being part of them. From there, we dive into the importance of networking events for both cast and crew, and why the upcoming Casting Buffalo Actors Expo on Saturday, August 23rd is a must-attend for filmmakers and talent looking to grow their careers.

We’re joined in-studio by our first official female guest, Roselyn Kasmire—a local SAG actress who just landed a role in Michael Mailer’s Little Audrey after auditioning for a completely different part. We discuss the power of bold choices, the value of restraint, and how delivering one undeniable performance can leave a lasting impression that gets you cast—even if it’s not for the role you originally went for.

Finally, we break down the official 2025 Expo schedule, highlighting guest speakers Tom Fontana and Charlene Amoia, and exploring the can’t-miss workshops from Film Neighbor Network. From scoring fresh headshots to gaining production skills in the PA training course, this episode is your roadmap to making the most of this year’s Expo. We can’t wait to see you there!

This week, the crew sits down with Buffalo native and acclaimed actor William Fichtner for an inspiring conversation on craft, career, and chasing the dream. With Kyle tuning in remotely from Las Vegas, Jordan takes the lead as we dive into Bill’s reflections on the value of preparation, believing in yourself, and staying dedicated to the work—even when the odds are uncertain.

We revisit Coldbrook, the heartfelt drama Fichtner directed and shot in Western New York nearly eight years ago, and explore his recent performance in Michael Mailer’s Cutman. The team also highlights the upcoming Casting Buffalo Actors Expo on August 23rd—an event Bill calls a top-tier opportunity for actors to connect, grow, and take the next step.

To close, Bill teases a potential return to Buffalo in 2026 with a new project on the horizon.

This week, the crew pays tribute to Buffalo legend Joe Giambra, whose legacy lives on through the “I Love You Buffalo” podcast theme. We also share behind-the-scenes stories from the set of the latest Bills-themed holiday movie, reflecting on how the energy of Bills Mafia inspired both cast and crew.

The team dives into the path to becoming SAG-eligible, breaking down the different routes to union status and clearing up common misconceptions from a casting director’s perspective. Kyle presents a scene from Sinners, spotlighting Ryan Coogler’s powerful use of background performers and visual storytelling. To wrap it all up, Peter leads the crew in a spirited recast of the beloved baseball comedy Major League—complete with fastballs, curveballs, and a few unexpected picks.

This week, the crew is joined by costume designer Keith Nielsen, the creative mind behind more than a dozen holiday films—including A Biltmore Christmas and the upcoming Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story, both filmed in Buffalo, NY. Keith shares his journey from Mozart in the Jungle to Hallmark favorites, highlighting how thoughtful design, historical research, and storytelling are woven into every wardrobe choice.

We dive into the collaborative relationship between casting and costumes, with Kyle reflecting on how Marshall and costume legend Ruth Carter helped inspire the creation of Casting Buffalo. Actors get valuable advice on why knowing your sizing, speaking up about comfort, and trusting the costumers’ expertise is essential to the process. Finally, “Keith Costumes” becomes “Keith Casting” as he joins the crew to recast Remember the Titans—and while Harry tries to play catch-up, he’s understandably distracted with Ryan Gosling on the mind. (Aren’t we all?)

This week, the crew shares behind-the-scenes stories from casting Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin, including the unique challenge of finding authentic Amish background talent—and how far casting directors will go for the real deal. We talk about the importance of actors staying ready and answering the call when opportunity knocks, and we dive into plans for the 2025 Casting Buffalo Actors Expo, reflecting on past highlights and what’s ahead.

Peter spotlights a scene from Clover featuring the late JJ Alfieri—an actor, producer, and passionate advocate for Buffalo’s film community. To wrap things up, the crew tackles a recasting of the ’90s action classic Speed, searching for today’s perfect duo to take the wheel from Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.