25 Acting Mistakes You MUST Stop Making Today

Send us a textWhat does it really take to build a creative career that lasts—not just survives, but thrives? In this powerful episode of Acting Smarter Now, Lydia Nicole sits down with legendary artist, author, and educator Dr. Synthia St. James to break it all down.From painting the iconic cover of Waiting to Exhale to creating the historic Kwanzaa postage stamp, Dr. St. James shares how she transformed raw talent into a globally recognized brand. This is not a “wait to be discovered” story—this is a masterclass in self-determination, strategy, and creative ownership.Inside this conversation, you’ll learn:• How to balance day jobs without dimming your creative fire• Why PR, licensing, and visibility matter more than you think• How to stop asking for permission and start building power• What it really means to design your own creative laneWhether you’re an actor, painter, writer, or multi-hyphenate creative navigating Los Angeles, Hollywood, or your own corner of the world, this episode delivers real-world wisdom you can apply now.This is your reminder: your art is valuable, your vision matters, and your career deserves intention.Like, subscribe, and share this episode with a creative who needs a mindset shift.Let’s stop waiting to be discovered and start becoming undeniable.#ActingSmarterNow #CreativeCareer #MasterTheBusinessOfArt #ActingCareer #CareerAdvice #HollywoodInsights#ArtTips #CreativeEntrepreneurship #ArtCareerAdvice #BuildYourOwnPathCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:15 - Passion for Art06:40 - Artistic Inspiration09:38 - First Art Sale11:21 - Parental Support for Artists19:26 - Return to Los Angeles22:08 - Importance of a Day Job26:35 - Transition to Acting28:20 - Inner City Cultural Center30:15 - Finding an Agent34:00 - First Job Experience36:35 - First Art Exhibit42:40 - Shift to Abstract Art49:07 - Teaching Business to Artists51:45 - Licensing Art Decisions57:41 - Benefits of Licensing1:02:30 - Kwanzaa Stamp Creation1:07:15 - Artist Responsibilities1:19:41 - Birthday Trips Reflection1:20:28 - Starting Self-Care1:22:15 - Regular Self-Care Trips1:25:54 - Setting Goals as a Youth1:30:08 - Incorporating Affirmations1:32:34 - Exercises for Artists1:35:48 - Tips for Emerging Artists1:39:59 - Promoting Your Art1:44:35 - Embracing Technology1:51:29 - Legacy Aspirations🎬 Welcome to Lydia Nicole’s World! 🎤Get ready to dive into the bold, hilarious, and downright inspiring universe of Lydia Nicole—a creative dynamo who’s worn all the hats: actor, stand-up comedian, writer, producer, music marketer, and even radio programmer. Basically, if Hollywood had a Swiss Army knife, it would be Lydia!🔥 What’s in it for you?✨ Candid conversations with industry pros—actors, producers, and creatives who’ve been there, done that, and have stories to prove it!✨ Insider secrets to Hollywood’s glitz and grind, sprinkled with Lydia’s signature wit and wisdom.✨ The Acting Smarter Now series—think of it as your go-to guide for acting, resilience, spirituality, and surviving the wild world of showbiz with your soul intact.But wait, there’s more! Lydia’s channel is packed with acting tips, industry hacks, and real-life lessons that’ll have you laughing, learning, and leveling up in your career. Whether you're dreaming of your big break, plotting your next project, or just here for some juicy Hollywood tea, this channel is your backstage pass to a smarter, funnier, and more fulfilGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to mastering dramaturgy and transforming your acting career! In this episode of Acting Smarter Now, Lydia Nicole dives deep into valuable insights every actor needs to know, featuring an exclusive interview with Che'Rae Adams, the artistic director of PlayPen Theater and a skilled dramaturge. Discover how techniques like the Michael Chekhov movement-based approach can accelerate character development, avoid emotional burnout, and build authenticity in your performances. Che'Rae shares her journey from actor to director, tips for writing solo shows, and the importance of collaboration in the creative process.Whether you're preparing for a one-person show or navigating the complexities of Hollywood, this video is packed with actionable advice to help you elevate your craft. Learn how to create impactful scenes, refine your storytelling, and develop meaningful industry relationships. Plus, hear how theater can change perspectives, shape communities, and fuel your creative legacy.Don't miss out on these essential acting tips and career strategies! Hit that like button, subscribe to the channel, and share this video with fellow creatives. Let’s turn your passion into unstoppable success. #actingcareer #CommonSenseMamita #actingclasses #Hollywoodinsights #dramaturgy #MichaelChekhovtechnique #creativejourney #careeradvice #actorslife#actortraining #dramaturgytips #soloshows #soloperformance #playwritingtipsCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:01 - Michael Chekhov Technique03:39 - Transition from Acting to Directing05:26 - Internship at the Mark Taper Forum08:20 - Internship at the Seattle Rep10:57 - The Road12:35 - Writer Guidance in Theatre15:27 - Concept Sentence vs Logline16:38 - Writing Your Own Project21:00 - Writing Process Tips23:24 - Che'Rae’s 6-Week Class27:18 - Timing for Writing Your Story32:59 - Processing Trauma Before Performance35:55 - Rewriting Techniques39:05 - Workshopping Plays43:35 - Rehearsal Strategies48:40 - Learning from Designers50:20 - Actionable Feedback for Directors53:20 - Teaching Boundaries in Theatre56:32 - Actor-Director Communication1:04:00 - Rehearsal Time Management1:05:14 - Importance of Internships1:10:38 - Building Relationships in Theatre1:22:57 - Setting Artistic Goals1:28:54 - Community Involvement in Theatre1:35:03 - Fundraising and Grant Writing1:36:46 - New Play Development Insights1:39:53 - Love for Theatre1:40:44 - Legacy in Theatre1:43:10 - Appreciation in Theatre1:44:05 - Supporting PlayPennGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textAs the new year approaches, it's time to focus on your **acting** **career**! I'm sharing essential insights on **how to set goals** and cultivate the **success** mindset you need to thrive. This episode is all about **personal development** to prepare for an incredible year ahead.Stop wasting time on ineffective resolutions—discover the actor’s guide to setting real, powerful goals 🎯. Whether you’re a new actor or a seasoned pro, this video breaks down how to set clear, intentional targets to supercharge your acting career. Learn what separates goals from tasks and resolutions, how to turn ambition into action, and the secrets to staying motivated when the industry feels overwhelming. Lydia Nicole brings her years of experience as an actor and producer to share inspiring personal stories—including how goal-setting helped her land roles with legends like Robert Redford and produce award-nominated films. You’ll hear actionable tips on creating a vision for your career, aligning your goals with purpose, and avoiding common pitfalls that hold actors back. If you’re tired of drifting and ready for structure, clarity, and momentum, this video is your roadmap to success. Gain insights into the importance of creative maintenance and learn why setting goals regularly is essential for staying ahead in Hollywood. Don’t let another year pass by without progress—your career deserves direction, and your dreams deserve to be realized.Watch now to transform your acting journey, subscribe for more empowering content, and share this video with fellow creatives who need a boost! #actingcareer #CommonSenseMamita #actingtips #HollywoodinsightsCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:50 - What are Goals02:25 - What Goals Are Not06:01 - Why People Get Goals Wrong07:39 - Setting Goals from a Young Age12:12 - Setting Goals for Your Career13:14 - How to Set Goals18:09 - Don’t Let Your Feelings Stop You20:02 - How to Win Awards27:05 - Benefits of Goal Setting28:47 - Why Actors Must Set Goals Regularly33:18 - Goal Setting Workshop for Actors36:20 - Sign Up for the Actor Goal Setting Workshop37:38 - Ongoing Goal Setting After the WorkshopGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textReady to stop waiting for your acting career to magically take off—and finally take the wheel? Hollywood rewards the bold, and if you're reading this, that means you're ready to step into that version of yourself.I’m Lydia Nicole, your no-nonsense guide to building the confidence, clarity, and career momentum most actors wish they had. Thousands of actors already use my free on-demand acting library on YouTube—over 900 videos and 50+ curated playlists—to level up their craft, mindset, business, and booking strategy. If you're not one of them yet…you’re already behind.This is your chance to tap into the exact tools that help actors:• sharpen their craft and make unforgettable choices• master auditions and self-tapes• build a powerful, authentic actor brand• create their own opportunities (instead of waiting to be chosen)• strengthen their mindset so they can survive—and thrive—in Hollywood• get real-world business strategies most acting classes never teachWhether you're starting fresh, reinventing yourself, or climbing to your next level, you’ll find playlists on everything from goal setting, dynamic demo reels, financial literacy, and Hollywood hyphen life, to interviews with industry pros and the hard-earned lessons I’ve learned along my journey.And here's what most actors don’t know: the ones who rise?They don’t wait for permission.They build their own table, their own lane, their own magic.If you're serious about transforming your career, hit that Subscribe button on Lydia Nicole Live—because each day you don’t is a day someone else outworks you.And if you’re craving accountability, community, and top-tier coaching, join me inside the Acting Smarter Circle, running September 8th–December 15th. Actors who join don’t just improve—they elevate.You're a diamond.It's time the world sees you shine. ✨#actingcareer #CommonSenseMamita #actingtips #Hollywoodinsights #actingclasses #careeradvice #LosAngeles #actingresources #actingmindset #auditiontips #financialliteracyforactors #businessadviceforactorsCHAPTERS:00:00 - Welcome00:38 - Lydia Nicole Live02:11 - New Acting Starter Kit02:33 - Audition Tips for Actors02:59 - Business Advice for Actors03:56 - Actor Mindset04:39 - Money Advice for Actors05:25 - Hollywood Hyphens06:03 - One Person Show Tips07:01 - Filmmaking in Hollywood07:32 - Tools for Actors and Success Tips08:27 - Self-Care for Actors10:06 - Goal Setting for Actors13:01 - Set Etiquette in Film13:15 - Representation Matters in Acting13:49 - Acting Smarter Digital Planner16:40 - Acting Smarter Circle Community22:00 - Where to Find Resources for Actors24:10 - Closing Remarks25:09 - The Importance of Being Coached in ActingGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textEver 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 Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textReady to future-proof your kid’s acting career? In this episode of Acting Smarter Now, I’m sitting down with Annie Semenova, powerhouse creator of Unity, an online acting school that’s shaking up how kids and teens train for Hollywood and the age of AI.Unity isn’t just “another acting class.”It’s a global training ground for young performers who want to become:Confident storytellersCompassionate leadersSmart, tech-savvy creatorsWith working-actor teachers from shows like Shameless, Abbott Elementary, and Jane the Virgin, Unity gives kids insider-level training and real-world skills—empathy, creativity, leadership, and the ability to think for themselves in a fast-changing, AI-driven world.They’re not just running scenes…They’re writing, acting in, and creating their own short films.Annie opens up about:Her journey as a mom helping her daughter navigate the industryThe emotional and practical challenges parents faceHow Unity helps young actors stand in their power, own their uniqueness, and use technology as a tool—not a threatIf you’re a parent who wants your child to: Express themselves boldlyBuild real confidence (on and off camera)Be ready for an entertainment industry transformed by AI…then this conversation is absolutely for you.Like this videoDrop a comment with your child’s biggest acting dreamSubscribe for more acting tips, career strategy, and inspiring stories to help you and your young actor act smarter now.00:00 - Intro01:06 - Empowering Young Actors: Creativity, Confidence, Individuality03:42 - Impact of AI on the Acting Industry12:39 - Inspiration Behind Starting the Acting School16:05 - Overview of the Acting Curriculum24:13 - Age Groups for Acting Classes26:42 - Incorporating Leadership in Acting Training29:28 - OUTROGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textActors are quietly using AI to level up their careers… Are you one of them?In this video, I, Lydia Nicole—actress, producer, and no-nonsense acting career coach—am pulling back the curtain on the exact AI tools and strategies every modern actor should be using right now.You’ll learn how to use AI to:Elevate your craft without losing your soul or authenticityStreamline your audition and career workflow so you stop spinning your wheelsPolish your professional presence online and in the roomTurn rejection into fuel and rebuild your confidence with smart supportWe’ll talk about how I use tools like ChatGPT to:Break down scripts and characters faster and deeperSharpen your audition prep so you walk into the room grounded and readyUpgrade your branding—bios, emails, actor website copy, and moreFind the right people (like the perfect headshot photographer in Los Angeles)Create a real career strategy instead of just waiting for the phone to ring.AI is changing Hollywood—but it will never replace your creativity. Used wisely, it becomes your silent partner, helping you move faster, think clearly, and show up as the most potent version of yourself.If you’re tired of feeling behind, overwhelmed, or invisible in this industry, this is your sign:It’s time to act smarter, not just harder.Watch now to start shifting from undiscovered to undeniable.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:19 - What is AI05:48 - AI Benefits for Actors16:19 - Finding a Headshot Photographer19:17 - Preparing for Your Photoshoot20:40 - Auditing Your Marketing Materials21:30 - Researching Representation22:05 - Tracking Your Auditions22:40 - Planning Your Social Media23:12 - Networking with Confidence23:40 - Boosting Your Confidence24:30 - Planning Your Skill Growth25:38 - AI and Job Security26:10 - Embracing AI27:15 - The Longevity of AI28:25 - Join the Acting Smarter CircleGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textStep inside the pulse of LA’s 1980s Black radio revolution!In this powerful episode of Acting Smarter Now, Lydia Nicole takes you back to the golden era of KGFJ/KUTE102 FM, where voices became legends and young dreamers laid the foundation for today’s entertainment industry. Lydia reunites with her former KGFJ teammates, Denise Smith, Jacqueline Walker, and Andre Allen—sharing behind-the-scenes stories of hustle, history, and heart from their days as the Promotions Director, Receptionist, and Assistant Promotions Director during the station’s heyday.From hosting icons like Muhammad Ali to nurturing new talent and creating space for Black excellence in media, this conversation is overflowing with wisdom, laughter, and legacy. Discover what it took to thrive inside Inner City Broadcasting Corporation, one of the first Black-owned media powerhouses that changed the game forever. ✨Whether you’re chasing your acting dreams, building your brand, or love a good story about perseverance and purpose, this episode will leave you inspired to own your greatness and create your own lane in today’s entertainment world. 💪🏾🔥 Celebrate community. Honor creativity. Amplify determination.Drop a comment with your favorite old-school radio memory—who were your go-to DJs or stations growing up? Let’s keep the spirit of Black radio alive!#ActingSmarterNow #CommonSenseMamita #KGFJ #BlackRadio #LosAngeles #CareerEmpowerment #RadioLegends #BehindTheMic #HollywoodStories #ActingCareerCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:11 - KGFJ AM 1230 and KUTE 102 FM02:56 - Hiring Process at KGFJ10:27 - Denise Smith - Promotions Director Insights11:27 - Working Experience at KGFJ19:59 - Remote Broadcast Experiences22:54 - Challenges for Young Black Women in Radio29:55 - Working for a Black-Owned Company31:39 - Jacqueline’s Career Transition to Radio36:04 - Importance of Diversity in Media39:58 - Community Involvement in Broadcasting43:48 - Being Selective in Career Choices46:23 - AI's Impact on Job Creation52:55 - Hal Jackson's Legacy55:50 - Behind the Scenes at a Radio Station01:01:40 - Carol Carper's Contributions01:06:42 - Denise Smith's Role at KGFJ01:10:10 - Denise Smith's Motivation01:11:13 - Lessons from Denise Smith01:11:51 - Lydia's Takeaways from Denise01:14:20 - Jacqueline’s Learning Experience with Denise01:19:39 - Final Thoughts on the Industry01:25:50 - OutroGet the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textSeason 3 of the Acting Smarter Now Podcast kicks off with a powerful transformation story!Actress Ginney Bilbray, one of our very own Acting Smarter Now participants, discovered this podcast, took the lessons to heart, and turned them into real results. From listener to leading lady, Ginney shares how applying actionable insights from the show inspired her to create and mount her deeply personal one-woman show, “A Pretty Normal Life.”Join Lydia Nicole as she dives into Ginney’s remarkable journey—how she embraced the power of storytelling, found her creative center, and built a project that reflects her truth. This episode is filled with aha moments and hard-earned wisdom from Ginney and some of Hollywood’s finest mentors, including Adilah Barnes, Don Reed, and Ivana Chubbuck.Whether you’re an emerging actor or a seasoned artist ready for your next breakthrough, this episode will light a fire under your creativity. Expect practical tools, mindset shifts, and the motivation you need to move from dreaming to doing.🎧 Subscribe, like, and share to keep growing with the Acting Smarter community.Let’s turn your acting dreams into unstoppable success—together.#ActingSmarterNow #ActingCareer #ActingTips #ActorMotivation #HollywoodSuccess #ActingPodcastCHAPTERS:00:00 - Ginney Bilbray's Journey01:55 - Lydia's Interviews Impact on Jenny05:45 - GInney's One-Woman Show Insights09:55 - Tips for One-Woman Show Success17:50 - The Power of Storytelling21:25 - Partnering with Nonprofits23:20 - Promoting Your Show Effectively25:55 - Documenting Your Artistic Journey28:20 - Creating an Effective Press Kit29:15 - Submitting Your Show to Theaters32:20 - Demands of a One-Person Show35:00 - Recommended Interviews to Watch39:50 - Standing in Your Center44:20 - Resources for Aspiring Actors47:56 - Helpful Technology for Performers50:10 - Embracing Your Self-Worth56:05 - New Experiences Every Night59:11 - You Owe Nothing to Others1:04:20 - Final Thoughts1:05:20 - Gratitude and Acknowledgments1:06:20 - OUTROWelcome to Lydia Nicole’s World! Get ready to dive into the bold, hilarious, and downright inspiring universe of Lydia Nicole—a creative dynamo who’s worn all the hats: actor, stand-up comedian, writer, producer, music marketer, and even radio programmer. Basically, if Hollywood had a Swiss Army knife, it would be Lydia!Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

Send us a textStep into your power, actor!   In this game-changing video, Lydia Nicole—actress, producer, and no-nonsense career coach—exposes the 25 acting mistakes that silently sabotage your success. From waiting to be “discovered” to skipping your training and ignoring your health, she breaks down how these habits can derail your dreams before you even hit the audition room.Through raw honesty and real Hollywood experience, Lydia shares how mastering her mindset, building the right relationships, and running her acting career like a business completely transformed her life. She even spills stories from her time working alongside legends like Robert Redford and Loretta Devine, revealing what it really takes to stand out in this industry.If you’re ready to level up your focus, build unshakable confidence, and turn your passion into a powerhouse career—this is your wake-up call. Stop waiting for permission. Stop waiting to be discovered. It’s time to become the choice.Hit that like button, subscribe, and join the #ActingSmarterNow community for the tools, truth, and mindset every actor needs to rise.Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show