Lydia Nicole's Acting Smarter Now Podcast

<p>Immerse yourself in the rich, dynamic world of 'Acting Smarter Now" with Lydia Nicole,<br />your vibrant guide to mastering the business and craft of acting. With Lydia, a<br />seasoned industry veteran of 40 years, you'll experience a journey of practical<br />wisdom, brimming with empowerment, and street-wise common sense.<br /><br /></p><p>Join Lydia Nicole as she transforms the mindset of actors and creatives, infusing confidence and cultivating fun while executing their craft. As a multifaceted creative—actor, stand-up comedian, radio programmer, music marketer, and more—Lydia offers a treasure trove of wisdom from both her victories and her blunders, allowing listeners to navigate their paths with more ease and insight.<br /><br /></p><p>Lydia brings the Hollywood scene right into your ears, conducting vibrant interviews with industry creatives, from budding actors to veteran producers. She effortlessly peels back the curtain on the glamorous yet challenging Hollywood landscape, providing a pragmatic roadmap for your creative journey while staying authentic to your artistic vision.<br /><br /></p><p>'Acting Smarter Now"  goes beyond art; it is about life, resilience, and spirituality in an industry that never stops spinning.  So, whether you're an aspiring comedian, an emerging filmmaker, or an established actor seeking refreshing perspectives, this podcast is your friendly companion, mid-week energizer, and dose of industry smarts.</p><p><br />Hop on board for the ride of a lifetime with Lydia. Engage with<br />her on social media, stay updated with her latest episodes, and make your<br />artistic and business journey smarter, confident, and joyful!</p>

10 Ways Actors Can Break the Broke Mindset

Are you tired of being stuck in the "broke mindset"? 💡 In this must-watch episode of Acting Smarter Now, I, Lydia Nicole, share 10 powerful ways for actors to break free from financial struggles and step into abundance! From shifting your mindset with affirmations to practical tips like treating your acting career like a business, I’ll show you how to stop letting scarcity hold you back. You’ll discover actionable strategies like investing in your skills, finding side hustles that align with ...

09-29
38:12

Networking Tips That Actually Work For You

Are you ready to level up your acting career? 🎭 In this video, I share 7 essential networking tips every actor MUST know to build authentic industry connections and long-lasting relationships. From avoiding "desperate actor energy" to leading with value, these actionable strategies will transform how you approach casting directors, producers, and other creatives. 💡 Networking isn’t about quick wins—it’s about playing the long game, fostering genuine relationships, and creating a commun...

09-26
26:28

The Shocking Truth Hollywood Doesn’t Want Actors to Know

Ready to take charge of your acting journey? In this empowering video, Lydia Nicole shares how to "Be the CEO of Your Acting Career 🎬" by treating your craft like a thriving business! From strategic planning to branding and networking, discover actionable acting tips that will help you navigate Hollywood with confidence and clarity. With personal anecdotes from her own career and invaluable insights into mastering tools like ChatGPT, Lydia explains how to build systems, set measurable goals,...

09-24
53:49

10 Ways Actors Can OWN Their Craft, Career & Community

Discover 10 impactful ways actors can embrace responsibility today to elevate their craft, career, and community! In this heartfelt episode, I share my journey from an aspiring actor to working alongside Hollywood legend Robert Redford. Learn how his passion for excellence, advocacy for independent voices, and environmental activism inspired me—and can inspire you—to live with purpose. We’ll explore what it means to take responsibility as an actor: for yourself, your craft, and your communit...

09-22
26:43

Stop Playing Small: Empower Your Acting Career Today!

Are you ready to stop playing small and take charge of your acting career? In this video, I share powerful insights to help you break free from victim mentality and step into your true potential as an actor. Learn how to overcome self-sabotage, impostor syndrome, and excuses that are holding you back from career success. It's time to create your opportunities, sharpen your craft, and embrace the visionary within you! Drawing from my own experiences and conversations with industry professiona...

09-17
45:47

Why Perfectionism Hurts Actors More Than You Think

Perfectionism can be the biggest trap for actors, keeping you stuck and silencing your authentic voice. In this video, I share why letting go of perfectionism is essential to thriving in your acting career and how embracing the process can unlock your growth, creativity, and confidence. 🎭 Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned actor, this is for you! 💡 As someone who's walked the path, I reveal personal stories from my own acting journey, including lessons learned from launchi...

09-15
27:52

Still Searching For Your Purpose? Watch This!

Still wondering what your real purpose is? In this video, I’m diving deep into connecting your acting career, personal life, and faith to uncover your purpose once and for all! Do you feel lost or stuck in your creative journey? Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a seasoned pro, or someone simply searching for meaning, this message is for YOU. I get real about my own journey in Hollywood, from landing roles like “Stand and Deliver” to finding a way to inspire others through my craft. I’...

09-14
30:49

How to Get a Theatrical Agent FAST in 2025

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

09-14
47:08

Secrets Every Actor Should Know About Working With Editors

Secrets Every Actor Should Know About Working With Editors Unlock the secrets every actor needs to know about working with editors to elevate your career! In this eye-opening interview, I sit down with one of my favorite editors, Bethany Fanthorpe, to uncover how the actor-editor relationship can make or break your projects. Whether you're crafting a standout demo reel, producing your own content, or preparing for a big opportunity, this conversation is packed with actionable career advice, i...

08-21
43:35

What Does It Really Take To Make It In Hollywood?

What Does It Really Take To Make It In Hollywood? Are you ready to take control of your acting career without waiting for Hollywood to call? In this inspiring and insightful video, Lydia Nicole of Acting Smarter Now sits down with veteran actor and producer Tony Winters, who shares transformative advice from over 40 years in the industry. From his early days as a Universal Studios tour guide to starring in acclaimed projects and creating his own films, Tony proves that persistence, passion, a...

08-07
02:07:00

Avoid This Common Acting Mistake When You Work Alone

Avoid This Common Acting Mistake When You Work Alone The Big Mistake Actors Make When They Work Alone. Discover why being a lone actor can derail your career and learn how to build momentum, stay accountable, and connect with the right people to thrive in the industry. In this video, I share vital acting tips, personal experiences from my 50-year career, and Hollywood insights to help you avoid common pitfalls. From emotional burnout to missing out on industry opportunities, I break do...

08-03
20:32

Unlock Your Voice: Overcome Actor Insecurities

Unlock your true potential and find confidence in your voice with this transformative guide on overcoming actor insecurities! 🎙️ Whether you're a seasoned Hollywood star or just beginning your acting journey, this video is packed with actionable acting tips and career advice to help you embrace your unique sound and shine on stage or screen. Join me, Lydia Nicole, as I sit down with the extraordinary voice and dialect coach Denise Woods, whose work with Hollywood elite like Mahershala ...

07-26
03:16:30

Rejection-Proof Your Acting Career 💪

Rejection is NOT the end! In this video, I’m sharing essential actor mindset secrets 🎭 to help you thrive in your acting career. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, rejection is a part of the journey—but it doesn’t have to break you. Learn how to reframe rejection, protect your self-confidence, and build resilience with actionable tools and tips like creating a support network, strengthening your craft, and celebrating every win, big or small. Drawing from my own experiences ...

07-18
35:59

Stop Winging It In Workshops With This Easy Trick

Stop "spraying and praying" or winging your way through auditions! Master audition prep today with actionable acting tips, career success strategies, and inspiring Hollywood insights. Are you tired of generic auditions that don't represent your unique essence? I’ve been there, and I’m here to help you shine! From creating tailored scenes that fit your brand to delivering unforgettable slates, this video is packed with tools to elevate your acting career. I share personal lessons from my jour...

07-14
47:02

Secrets to Career Longevity in Acting

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to career longevity in acting? 🎭 Join me, Lydia Nicole, as I sit down with the incredible Wren T. Brown, a renowned actor, artistic director, and co-founder of the Ebony Repertory Theater—the first black professional theater in Los Angeles operating under an equity contract. With four generations of artistry in his family, Wren shares invaluable acting tips, Hollywood insights, and the power of preparation, purpose, and community in carving out a lasting ca...

07-11
01:30:12

How Actors Can Make $$$ with Shopify Today!

Are you an actor waiting for your big break? Learn how YOU can turn your creativity into cash with Shopify today! In this inspiring episode of Acting Smarter, I sit down with the incredible Shopify guru, Vero Lopez, to share actionable tips on building a thriving side hustle. Whether you're selling unique crafts, creating digital downloads, or offering acting classes, this video is packed with insights to help you succeed. As actors, we've all faced the struggle of balancing auditions with m...

07-01
01:02:46

The Phone Call That Saved a Hollywood Choreographer

Discover how Vincent Paterson found hope in Hollywood's darkest moments and reclaimed his sense of self-worth when everything seemed lost. In this candid conversation, Vincent opens up about confronting personal struggles, overcoming a deep mental health crisis, and rediscovering purpose through creativity. Hear about the turning point that saved his life, how faith and humor played a role, and the lessons he learned about resilience in the entertainment industry. Whether you're navigating y...

06-16
09:48

The Secret Color Trick Every Actor Needs to Know!

Are you prepared to revolutionize your acting career? Learn how colors can significantly impact your acting career! Join Lydia Nicole and top Hollywood color consultant Jill Kersh as they share invaluable acting tips and Hollywood insights on how the right colors can impact auditions, headshots, self-tapes, and even your confidence. From understanding jewel tones to choosing wardrobe pieces that make your face, eyes, and smile pop, this video is packed with actionable advice for actors lookin...

06-13
02:00:51

The Actress Who Refused to Give Up After 599 Rejections

What does it take to land your big break in Hollywood? Join Skye Townsend as she shares her inspiring journey through 600 auditions to her breakthrough role on "A Black Lady Sketch Show." In this heartfelt interview, we dive into her unwavering determination, the lessons she learned from her iconic father, Robert Townsend, and how she embraced her own path in comedy and acting. Skye opens up about balancing integrity with career goals, overcoming rejection, and finding joy in her craft. ...

06-06
01:20:54

Over 40 and Still Got It: How Older Actors Can Win Big Again

Still think acting after 40 is impossible? It’s TIME for your COMEBACK! 💥 Whether you’re returning to the industry or just starting over, this video is packed with game-changing acting tips, career advice, and Hollywood insights to reignite your journey. Age is not a limitation—it's your superpower! From tackling ageism to rebranding your acting career, I’ll guide you step by step on how to sharpen your craft, rediscover your passion, and own your narrative. Learn how to update your skills, ...

05-30
33:10

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