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 artistry
Smart strategies for saving and staying steady
How to build relationships that actually matter
Mindset shifts every actor needs in today’s industry
This 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 #LosAngeles
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:27 - The Power of Relationships
05:54 - Knowing Your Craft
09:21 - You Are the Solution to Their Problem
13:11 - Taking Direction in the Audition Room
14:39 - Side Hustles for Creatives
25:21 - Surviving vs Thriving
27:27 - Using Your Skills as a Side Hustle
34:03 - Robert Townsend's Journey from Indiana to LA
36:54 - Robert Townsend's UCLA Experience
39:52 - Robert Townsend at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts
40:04 - Robert Townsend's Time at USC
42:50 - Your Record Deal & The Me Too Movement
48:00 - How Did You Get Into Stand Up
51:20 - Hollywood Shuffle: The Film That Changed Everything
54:31 - Hollywood Shuffle's Influence
59:51 - Starting Your Directing Journey
1:04:51 - Beginning Documentaries
1:06:38 - Scandals in the Bay Area
1:10:05 - Keeping the Faith: Stories After Hurricane Katrina
1:15:44 - Being Robbed in West LA During Obama Inauguration
1:19:44 - Relationship vs Networking
1:23:45 - Importance of a Physical Business Card
1:28:58 - Rich vs Poor: Who Takes Who Out
1:38:35 - Influential People in Your Life
1:44:36 - Spirituality's Influence on Your Art
1:49:20 - Faith in Your Creative Journey
1:55:02 - The Role of Mentorship
2:01:19 - Benefits of the Directors Guild
2:04:24 - Tributes at the Directors Guild
2:09:43 - Legacy Aspirations
2:10:45 - Mentorship: Who Are You Guiding?
2:14:25 - Funding Your Film Projects
2:17:56 - Importance of Script Rewrites
2:21:35 - Understanding Script Coverage
2:25:24 - Sending Scripts to Tom Hanks
2:32:43 - Protecting Your Creative Work
2:36:10 - Collaborating with Other Writers
2:39:33 - Crowdfunding for Your Projects
2:42:55 - Seeking Grants
2:43:43 - Creating a Business Plan
2:47:50 - Pitch Deck Essentials
2:53:20 - Start Small and Grow Your Vision
2:55:00 - Importance of Insurance
2:56:40 - Leaving Things as You Found Them
2:58:20 - Understanding Deliverables
3:00:00 - What Are Deliverables in Film?
3:01:40 - Technology's Evolution Over Time
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