Model Behavior with Michael G. Gabel

Michael talks with actor and filmmaker Raleigh Cain about growing up in the Midwest and yet still somehow being drawn to the acting path. They also discuss why, in the rush to pump out content, a lot of projects end up being all polish, no substance. Then Raleigh shares the origins of her pilot 'Story of You,' before giving some sage advice: just go for a walk. @raleigh.cain

Michael talks with model and host Julana about her love of animals, and how the entertainment industry has actually gotten her closer to her dream job than her biology degree. They also discuss expanding her modeling career into hosting, and how the balance of preparation and improv is essential. Then she wants to show you the world on her YouTube series Wild Adventures with Julana! @julana

Michael talks with OnlyFans model Hank about how YouTube and The Cheetah Girls set her on a path of performative sexualization. They also talk about the hierarchy of sex workers—especially when it comes to stigma and safety—and the importance of establishing boundaries before getting into the industry. Then Hank explains why social media needs to chill and stop shadowbanning her. @sirstinkie

Michael talks with commercial superstar Jacely Fuentes about how a little good fortune and a lot of persistence (not stubbornness) led to a pop in the industry and a career that's only moving forward. They also discuss why she looks at each job as a puzzle to solve and how a shift toward casting might allow her to help others do the same. Then she offers a word of advice: just be you. No, seriously. Because you can't be Jacely. @jacelyfuentes

Michael talks with runway model Bianca Palmerin about what she likes about Miami Swim Week (the rush) and what she doesn't (the diet). They also discuss how she's seen the industry change over a 14 year career, and the new roles she's pushing herself towards. Then Bianca wants you to know that there's always room in your life for some Chunky Hunnies. @biancapalmerin

Michael talks with photographer Niki Cram about why, despite being a painfully shy child, having a camera in her hand gives her ultimate confidence. They also discuss the peaks and valleys of hustling in the self employment world, and the importance of carving out time for self care. Then Niki wants you to know she sweats an insane amount while shooting but she'll be the first to make fun of herself. @nikicram

Michael talks with photographer Argel Rojo about being obsessed with colors as a kid, leading him to a career behind the lens. They also discuss a recent editorial shoot they collaborated on, and how they created a playful space to have fun and be free. Then Argel talks through his process of making selections, editing, and finding the magic in every one of his shoots. @argelrojo

Michael talks with actor and photographer Ming Lo about bailing on corporate life to live a thousand lives on screen. They also discuss why technique and professionalism will get you into that 1% of working actors, not some romantic belief in the myth of the tortured artist. Then Ming wants you to know how staring at strangers in public can help with your craft. @mingtelo

Michael talks with model and yoga teacher Fran Brower about how she gracefully manages her classes, clients and bookings without being a total flake. They also discuss her unique ability to switch from backstage goofball to poised badass when she steps in front of the camera. And then Fran simply wants you to know how beautiful you are! @fit.withfran

Michael talks with new faces model Zak Scherbak about his path from rugged mountain man to LA it boy, and why the two aren't mutually exclusive. They also discuss how he uses an innate sense of balance and contrast to his advantage in the modeling industry. Then Zak gives you some important homework with the book Study of Pose: 1000 Poses by Coca Rocha. @zaksbk

Michael talks with writer Jeff Rowe before he heads to the Oscars this weekend for the movie he co-directed, The Mitchells vs. The Machines on Netflix. They discuss their Roller Coaster Tycoon origin stories and the Panda Express lunches that sent them on their ten-year journeys to today. Jeff also breaks down the beautiful agony of working on such a massive production as an animated feature film, and then teases his new project, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot with Seth Rogen. Cowabunga, dudes! @roweyourboatz

Michael talks with comedian Mike Glazer about the pitfalls of spreading yourself too thin creatively, and why he's craving authenticity more and more these days. Then they discuss his thoughts on comedy as social commentary, what it's like to find magical moments on stage, and how to kill a self-tape audition. Mike also needs you to know the origin story of ranch dressing. @glazerboohoohoo

Michael talks with beauty photographer Zach Sutton about how subtleties and microexpressions can create huge results. They also break down what the 'product' is in campaigns vs. test shoots, and why you should highlight your assets. Then Zach describes how the diversity and inclusivity of the modeling landscape is reflected in the marketplace of makeup brands themselves. But don't forget to produce. @zsuttonphoto

Michael talks with international model Justin Davis about how his seventeen-year career helped him change from an introvert to an extrovert. They also discuss the importance of being able to read people's energy, especially on-set. And Justin describes why his own podcast, Who Can Relate?, fulfills a sense of purpose in his life. @mrjustdavis

Michael talks with fashion designer Michelle Hébert about the trajectory of her 30-year dream career, and the myth of the overnight success. They also discuss how clothing can be so much more than utility by telling a story or creating a conversation. And, while there's beauty in nature's efficiency, Michelle explains why play is just as important. @michellehebertofficial

Michael talks with model Laura Quintana about how her lifestyle rebrand went since their last episode, and why they don't really think people should be allowed to 'rebrand'. They also discuss her recent travels, including a ten-day shoot for The North Face on Kauai and a trip to Iceland sponsored by 7-Eleven. @qnami

Michael talks with photographer David Muller about all things headshots: wardrobe, HMU, backdrops, lighting, even cameras and lenses. They also discuss mastering the art of the 'squinch' and the subtle differences between commercial and theatrical facial expressions. David then suggests why, despite all your preparation, you should stay open to new ideas and those rare happy accidents. @davidmullerphotography

Commercial agent Marta Parrillo returns! She and Michael talk about all the developments in their lives—professional and otherwise—since her last episode, as well as announce the Daniel Hoff Agency's Atlanta division opening next year. They also discuss the virtues of Friends vs. Seinfeld, share some gossipy celeb stories, and check in on Marta's good friend Jennifer. @martaritaville

Michael talks with agent Rick Ferrari of Ferrari Talent about how a very early education at NYC modeling agencies and Studio 54 informed his aesthetic sense, giving him permission to view the industry through a lens of unique beauty. They also discuss his role in creating the 90s heroin chic look, his strategy for building a talent department through convention disruption, and why he hates commercial headshots. @ferraritalentagency

Michael talks with model and actor Angel Lin about her Myers-Briggs Type and how this industry has pushed her to discover many different aspects of her personality. They also discuss finding new challenges, keeping things fresh, and why you can still make an impression even if you tend to be more observant and/or introverted. Then Angel tells the story behind her Squid Game Halloween costume that went viral on TikTok. @angelmydarling