Listen "Why Side Hustles Are Your Secret Weapon"
Episode Synopsis
Ever feel like you’re hustling in circles? In this eye-opening and unapologetically honest episode of Acting Smarter, we reveal why side hustles aren’t just a necessity—they’re a power move for actors determined to thrive in Hollywood and beyond.Join me for a dynamic, truth-packed conversation with filmmaker and actor Bobby Mardis, as he breaks down how building your creative empire while auditioning can completely reshape your career. Bobby shares real stories from the trenches, what he learned working with legends like Robert Townsend, and the survival skills that helped him stay sharp, stay paid, and stay creative in Los Angeles.If you’re part of the 97% of actors balancing a job while chasing the dream, this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone—and you’re not behind. You’ll discover:How side hustles can fuel your artistrySmart strategies for saving and staying steadyHow to build relationships that actually matterMindset shifts every actor needs in today’s industryThis is your invitation to step into the driver’s seat of your acting life. Whether you're brand-new or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with tools, motivation, and a renewed fire to build a sustainable, empowered career.Ready to hustle smarter—not harder?Hit LIKE, SHARE this with your fellow creatives, and SUBSCRIBE for more real-world Hollywood wisdom, acting class gems, and no-nonsense career guidance from Lydia Nicole… your Common Sense Mamita!#actingcareer #sidehustles #HollywoodInsights #CommonSenseMamita #actingclasses #LosAngelesCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:27 - The Power of Relationships05:54 - Knowing Your Craft09:21 - You Are the Solution to Their Problem13:11 - Taking Direction in the Audition Room14:39 - Side Hustles for Creatives25:21 - Surviving vs Thriving27:27 - Using Your Skills as a Side Hustle34:03 - Robert Townsend's Journey from Indiana to LA36:54 - Robert Townsend's UCLA Experience39:52 - Robert Townsend at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts40:04 - Robert Townsend's Time at USC42:50 - Your Record Deal & The Me Too Movement48:00 - How Did You Get Into Stand Up51:20 - Hollywood Shuffle: The Film That Changed Everything54:31 - Hollywood Shuffle's Influence59:51 - Starting Your Directing Journey1:04:51 - Beginning Documentaries1:06:38 - Scandals in the Bay Area1:10:05 - Keeping the Faith: Stories After Hurricane Katrina1:15:44 - Being Robbed in West LA During Obama Inauguration1:19:44 - Relationship vs Networking1:23:45 - Importance of a Physical Business Card1:28:58 - Rich vs Poor: Who Takes Who Out1:38:35 - Influential People in Your Life1:44:36 - Spirituality's Influence on Your Art1:49:20 - Faith in Your Creative Journey1:55:02 - The Role of Mentorship2:01:19 - Benefits of the Directors Guild2:04:24 - Tributes at the Directors Guild2:09:43 - Legacy Aspirations2:10:45 - Mentorship: Who Are You Guiding?2:14:25 - Funding Your Film Projects2:17:56 - Importance of Script Rewrites2:21:35 - Understanding Script Coverage2:25:24 - Sending Scripts to Tom Hanks2:32:43 - Protecting Your Creative Work2:36:10 - Collaborating with Other Writers2:39:33 - Crowdfunding for Your Projects2:42:55 - Seeking Grants2:43:43 - Creating a Business Plan2:47:50 - Pitch Deck Essentials2:53:20 - Start Small and Grow Your Vision2:55:00 - Importance of Insurance2:56:40 - Leaving Things as You Found Them2:58:20 - Understanding Deliverables3:00:00 - What Are Deliverables in Film?3:01:40 - Technology's Evolution Over TimeGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show
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