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What 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 lane

Whether 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 #BuildYourOwnPath
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:15 - Passion for Art
06:40 - Artistic Inspiration
09:38 - First Art Sale
11:21 - Parental Support for Artists
19:26 - Return to Los Angeles
22:08 - Importance of a Day Job
26:35 - Transition to Acting
28:20 - Inner City Cultural Center
30:15 - Finding an Agent
34:00 - First Job Experience
36:35 - First Art Exhibit
42:40 - Shift to Abstract Art
49:07 - Teaching Business to Artists
51:45 - Licensing Art Decisions
57:41 - Benefits of Licensing
1:02:30 - Kwanzaa Stamp Creation
1:07:15 - Artist Responsibilities
1:19:41 - Birthday Trips Reflection
1:20:28 - Starting Self-Care
1:22:15 - Regular Self-Care Trips
1:25:54 - Setting Goals as a Youth
1:30:08 - Incorporating Affirmations
1:32:34 - Exercises for Artists
1:35:48 - Tips for Emerging Artists
1:39:59 - Promoting Your Art
1:44:35 - Embracing Technology
1:51:29 - 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 fulfil

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

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Unlock 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 #playwritingtips

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:01 - Michael Chekhov Technique
03:39 - Transition from Acting to Directing
05:26 - Internship at the Mark Taper Forum
08:20 - Internship at the Seattle Rep
10:57 - The Road
12:35 - Writer Guidance in Theatre
15:27 - Concept Sentence vs Logline
16:38 - Writing Your Own Project
21:00 - Writing Process Tips
23:24 - Che'Rae’s 6-Week Class
27:18 - Timing for Writing Your Story
32:59 - Processing Trauma Before Performance
35:55 - Rewriting Techniques
39:05 - Workshopping Plays
43:35 - Rehearsal Strategies
48:40 - Learning from Designers
50:20 - Actionable Feedback for Directors
53:20 - Teaching Boundaries in Theatre
56:32 - Actor-Director Communication
1:04:00 - Rehearsal Time Management
1:05:14 - Importance of Internships
1:10:38 - Building Relationships in Theatre
1:22:57 - Setting Artistic Goals
1:28:54 - Community Involvement in Theatre
1:35:03 - Fundraising and Grant Writing
1:36:46 - New Play Development Insights
1:39:53 - Love for Theatre
1:40:44 - Legacy in Theatre
1:43:10 - Appreciation in Theatre
1:44:05 - Supporting PlayPenn

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

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As 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 #Hollywoodinsights
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
00:50 - What are Goals
02:25 - What Goals Are Not
06:01 - Why People Get Goals Wrong
07:39 - Setting Goals from a Young Age
12:12 - Setting Goals for Your Career
13:14 - How to Set Goals
18:09 - Don’t Let Your Feelings Stop You
20:02 - How to Win Awards
27:05 - Benefits of Goal Setting
28:47 - Why Actors Must Set Goals Regularly
33:18 - Goal Setting Workshop for Actors
36:20 - Sign Up for the Actor Goal Setting Workshop
37:38 - Ongoing Goal Setting After the Workshop

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

Support the show