Conversations with Johanna Mcginley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Johanna Mcginley

Hi Johanna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. Even in grade school, I was making and selling hemp keychains for local bands. That drive has never left me. In 2024, I founded Mime Wolf Inn, LLC, to channel that energy into casting services, acting coaching, and studio rentals. Before starting my own company, my journey in the industry began in 2014 as an extras casting assistant on major films like Transformers 4 and Batman v Superman. After gaining valuable experience as a talent agent at PCG Talent in Columbus for the last 5 years, I knew I wanted more control over my career and a way to stay involved in acting.

A key turning point came when producer Nathan Bielski gave me my first casting director credit in January of 2024, casting 50 extras for a Twenty One Pilots music video. That experience gave me the confidence to start my own business, lease an office, and fully embrace the entrepreneurial path. Mime Wolf Inn was born.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, struggles come in all forms, and for me, it was medical. In 2017, while working as a Set PA, my kidneys failed. I had to step away from multiple film projects to focus on saving my life. I was started on dialysis the same day I was diagnosed, and it was tough—eight hours every night, filled with discomfort and pain, but it was the only way to keep going. Despite the challenges, I couldn’t give up what I loved. I found a way to work on films while dialyzing, with the Assistant Director even giving me a trailer for 30 minutes so I could recharge and get back to it. After a year of dialysis, I received a life-saving kidney transplant from a deceased donor in 2018. As soon as I recovered, I jumped right back into the work I’m passionate about.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Casting Director, Acting Coach, Studio Owner, and Actor. I offer casting services – Mime Wolf Inn Casting – to producers; provide valuable guidance through acting coaching – Mime Wolf Inn Coaching; and I rent out my studio – The Loft at the Fort – to photographers and actors for auditions or shoots. Acting is also a deep passion of mine, and I pour my heart into every role I take on. I graduated in 2008 from the 2 yr program at the New York Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in NYC. Ive acted in multiple productions including an episode of Chicago PD (Season 10 Episode 8) in 2022 and Im (unfortunately someone had to do it) the racist woman from the film “Rustin” on Netflix in 2023.

I am most proud of starting my own business, Mime Wolf Inn LLC this year. I would think Im known for my ability to bring people together. Networking is key for this industry. Lastly, what sets me apart is my blend of diverse industry experience, entrepreneurial spirit, and resilience. I’ve worked in casting, talent representation, and film production, which gives me a broad understanding of the business from multiple angles. On top of that, my personal journey—overcoming major health challenges while staying committed to my passion—has made me more determined and adaptable. I approach every project with creativity, persistence, and the desire to uplift others, which allows me to offer something truly different.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success is about creating impact through spreading awareness. It’s not just about personal achievements but about reaching others, sharing knowledge, and making a difference in the lives of those around me. When I can inspire or inform others in a meaningful way, that’s when I feel truly successful.

Pricing:

• Studio Rental starts at $80/hr
• Acting Coaching starts at $50/hr
• Mentoring Sessions starts at $30/hr
• Audition Space starts at $15/20 mins

Contact Info:

• Website: www.johannamcginley.com/mimewolfinn OR www.theloftatthefort.com
• Instagram: johannamcginleyofficial OR mimewolfinncasting OR theloftatthefort
• Other: ACTOR EMAIL SIGN UP: https://airtable.com/appv5JmaVYZY1WUjK/pagjsizPBQa6nRjNr/form