04/22/2026
Managers guide the journey.
Agents close the deals. But in practice, the lines can blur. Join us for a candid conversation with industry insiders as we unpack the real differences between actor management and agency representation. Expect honest insights, practical advice, and a behind-the-scenes look at how these partnerships work together to build sustainable, long-term careers.
i7 Saturday, April 25 | 10:30 a.m. | Virgin Hotel
Dallas, Manor
Linda McAlister is the owner of Linda McAlister Talent () a family-run business with deep industry roots. She has been involved in legislative efforts working for rebates/incentives for the state of Texas’ moving image industry since 1999. She was one of the six creators of the Texas Media Production Alliance (), a successful trade organization and is now on the board of TXMPA.
Linda is a member of Texas Media Production Alliance (board member), Dallas Producers Association (), and Women In Film. Linda’s passion for movies and television began at birth and continue on in a legacy started by her father.
Giovannie Cruz () is an American actress of Puerto Rican descent who grew up speaking English and Spanish. Represented by Linda McAlister Talent, Giovannie’s talent and perseverance have helped her land over 30 commercials for major market brands, and she continues to book roles in film, television, voiceover, and video games including roles in back-to-back Warner Brothers films.
Doug Mankoff is a producer and executive producer of fifteen independent films including
THIRTEEN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT ONE THING and THE BIG EMPTY. He is currently the CEO of Echo Lake Entertainment
(), which he founded in
1997. He is also a member of both the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Producers Guild of America.
Tickets available at the link in our bio!