Author Archives: Keith Hunter

Sarah Dugdale

I’ve had the pleasure of training under the brilliant Deb Podowski for over a decade. Deb’s dedication and investment in her students is unparalleled. She has been a game changer for me and has given me the tools, the work ethic, and the confidence to succeed in any role that comes my way. From the broad strokes to the tiniest details, Deb transforms actors from proficient to outstanding, and she doesn’t settle for anything but your best. Deb has elevated my work to heights I never dreamed I could reach.

Sarah Dugdale, Series Lead “Virgin River” on Netflix

Garfield Wilson

Deb literally changed the trajectory of my career as an actor and changed my life. She instilled in me the tools I needed to discover not only the craft but challenged me far outside of my comfort zone. She will always be the only acting coach I train with and is the reason I am the actor I am today.

Garfield Wilson, Ivy & Bean

Sarah Grey

Since working with Deb at 16, she has continuously encouraged, inspired, and pushed me to be better. I’ve always admired her ability to, intuitively and sharply, find our strengths and our areas that have room to grow. She’s held a space for me to explore and discover, and I am so grateful for that.”

Sarah Grey, Series Lead in Netflix series “The Order”

Tiera Skovbye

Deb’s dedication and passion as a teacher has given me space to grow and flourish as an actor. She has pushed me and motivated me to dig deeper and do my very best in every aspect of the craft. I’ve grown leaps and bounds under her careful guidance.

Tiera Skovbye, Series Lead “Nurses” 

Meganne Young

When I moved to Vancouver in 2018, joining an acting studio was at the top of my list. I wanted somewhere I could meet people, seeing as I knew no one upon arrival, find something to give me a little structure and, of course, work on my craft. Then I discovered Deb Podowski. With laser focus she was able to pinpoint my strengths, what needed work and the walls that needed breaking down. In a relatively short period of time, I can see that my craft has developed leaps and bounds from working with Deb. She has given me the confidence and support I needed to challenge myself and prepared me for the emotional places I’ve needed to take my characters. But the thing that is the most special about Deb is that her passion and support transcend what you need as an actor and is available to you as the complex human you are. She knows when to push you further and when you need to play. She offers you a safe space where you can choose to leave your reality at the door or use your scene to help you unpack your reality. So yes, as an actor I have undoubtedly grown from strength to strength under her guidance, but what I am most grateful for is her love and support outside the room, her kindness, her friendship and her compassion.

Meganne Young, “The Kissing Booth 1 & 2” on Netflix