Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1538243
30 SAG-AFTR A | Summer 2025 | sagaftra.org Podcast News tools to spend less time on paperwork and more time realizing their artistic vision," she said. "Filmmakers have told us they wanted a smoother process for signing professional union talent on their productions, and we're excited to deliver on that," said SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree- Ireland. "With everything in one place on the Producer Portal, there's no longer a need to track documents in multiple email chains — and the information is available 24/7." Particularly for smaller-budget projects, which often lack the bandwidth to manage a document-heavy process in a timely, organized way, the Producer Portal is a meaningful solution. Producers Guild of America Chief Executive Officer Susan Sprung said, "We're proud to collaborate with SAG-AFTRA on a tool that not only streamlines the process, but also empowers producers as they bring their creative visions to life. Our thanks to the entire SAG-AFTRA team, the PGA Independent Film Producers Task Force and IFTA for their hard work and dedication to this important project." Independent Film & Television Alliance President & CEO Jean Prewitt applauded the portal as a major step forward for independent producers navigating SAG- AFTRA processes. "This platform offers a transparent and accessible system for producers to track compliance amid the inherent challenges of production — from shifting schedules and changing personnel to uncertainties around requirements," she said. "SAG-AFTRA's commitment to this initiative strengthens its relationship with the independent sector and fosters greater confidence in the process. We commend SAG-AFTRA for its yearslong dedication to this project and thank the Producers Guild of America and IFTA's members for their support." The Producer Portal is now live for several contracts, including Theatrical (Basic or CBA), Low Budget Agreement, Ultra Low Budget Project Agreement, and Moderate Low Budget Project Agreement. Access to the Producer Portal is granted as part of the signatory application process for producers working on projects under these contracts. Additional entertainment contracts will be added in the future. More information is available at sagaftra.org/ProducerPortal. What's New in Your Ears From insight into networking to advice on making your self-tape stand out, the latest episodes of the SAG- AFTRA and En Español podcasts have got you covered. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. "The best time [to get] an agent is when you can find the proper [work] for an agent to pitch, sell and discuss [with] you. I always tell people, 'If you do interesting work, someone will find you. Focus on the work.'" DAISY WU The Gersh Agency Senior Partner How to Find, Keep and Work with the Right Agent Parts 1 & 2 "I prepare for a self-tape as if I'm going to audition … The key is to find out what works best for you." ROB BROWNSTEIN Acting Coach and SAG-AFTRA Professional Representatives Committee Chair What Every Actor Should Know About Auditioning "When it comes to day players or co-stars, don't try to do too much with your [self-tape] … The most work you should put in is researching the project and the director, and aligning your performance with that tone." JENNY JUE Casting Director What Really Happens After You Send in Your Self-Tape Producer Portal continues from page 20 Click on the colored squares above to check out these episodes! Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Overcast, Pocket Casts and TuneIn. The views expressed by the guests are their own and not that of SAG-AFTRA. Any mention of products or services does not imply SAG-AFTRA's endorsement.