Lydia Nicole's Acting Smarter Now Podcast

Lydia Nicole

Immerse yourself in the rich, dynamic world of 'Acting Smarter Now" with Lydia Nicole,your vibrant guide to mastering the business and craft of acting. With Lydia, aseasoned industry veteran of 40 years, you'll experience a journey of practicalwisdom, brimming with empowerment, and street-wise common sense. 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. 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. '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. Hop on board for the ride of a lifetime with Lydia. Engage withher on social media, stay updated with her latest episodes, and make yourartistic and business journey smarter, confident, and joyful!

  1. JAN 30

    His Unlikely Path from Acting Extra to Studio Owner

    Send us a text From actor to producer, this 13-year journey to success is filled with lessons, grit, and game-changing insights.  Join me, Lydia Nicole, as I sit down with Juming Delmas, a former actor turned producer, content creator, and founder of Juming Delmas Studios. We dive into his incredible transformation from chasing acting dreams to owning his creative lane in production. Whether you're navigating the unpredictable world of acting or dreaming of taking charge behind the camera, this conversation is for YOU.  Discover the toughest challenges actors face, the importance of staying adaptable, why goal-setting is crucial, and how to pivot when you've reached what you thought was "the end." Jamine shares raw stories about sacrifices—like sleeping in parks and subways—grinding for opportunities, and the pivotal moment he achieved his lifelong goal of working with Will Smith. But what happens when you achieve the dream? How do you move forward? This episode is packed with actionable advice on building resilience, balancing creativity with business ownership, and staying authentic in your craft.  Whether you're just starting your acting career, considering joining SAG, or looking for inspiration to reignite your goals, this is your wake-up call! #ActingTips #HollywoodInsights #CommonSenseMamita #ActingCareer #ActingClasses #LosAngeles Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this video with your creative community! Let’s break through together and take your career from undiscovered to unstoppable. Drop your thoughts in the comments below—what’s your ultimate career goal, and how are you working toward it? Let’s keep the conversation going!  #actingcareer #fromactortoproducer #actingjourney #actingcoach #filmproduction 01:05 - Challenges as an Actor 03:03 - Inspiration to Become an Actor 10:55 - Journey to New York 13:15 - Breakthrough Moments in Acting 16:11 - Pivotal Changes in Career 18:25 - Goal Setting in Acting 18:44 - Timeframe for Achieving Goals 22:07 - Beginning Goal Setting 25:55 - Achieving Your Goals 27:20 - Defining Personal Freedom 30:40 - Overcoming Struggles 35:58 - Actors Union Insights 40:30 - Transitioning to Union Status 43:24 - Getting Noticed as an Actor 46:29 - Actor-Agent Relationships 48:23 - Adapting to Industry Changes 49:29 - Financial Struggles in Acting 51:35 - Competing in the Acting Field 55:53 - Importance of Acting Training 1:00:47 - Starting a Production Company 1:04:30 - Actors as Employees 1:08:12 - Faith and Patience in Acting 1:12:55 - Justifying Laziness with Faith 1:15:58 - Faith and Taking Action 1:21:00 - Finding the Right Fit 1:25:45 - Understanding Career Desires 1:30:38 - Social Media Marketing for Actors 1:33:49 - Strategy in Content Creation 1:35:30 - Job Acquisition Tips 1:39:55 - Starting from Scratch 1:41:13 - Daily Learning in Acting 1:47:07 - Community and Culture in Acting 1:50:33 - Knowing Your Mission as an Actor Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

    2 hr
  2. JAN 22

    How to Fund & Make Your Short Film Successfully

    Send us a text Discover how to fund and make your short film successfully with insider tips, real-world advice, and inspiring stories from creative professionals who’ve done it! 🎥 In this video, I sit down with the incredible Melvin Taylor II, actor, writer, and creator of the award-winning short film "Baldi," to explore his journey of turning a powerful personal story into a film that resonates. From working a day job to budgeting time and money effectively, Melvin shares how he crowdfunded his project, submitted it to over 60 film festivals, and won multiple awards, including Best Cast at the Diversity Showcase. Whether you're a filmmaker navigating the challenges of production or an actor dreaming of launching your career, this video is packed with actionable insights on time management, networking, and creating a professional team to bring your vision to life. Learn the importance of planning ahead, leveraging crowdfunding platforms, and preparing your film for festival success. Get ready to step up your game with tips on balancing creative pursuits with financial stability, crafting compelling stories, and connecting with industry professionals. Don’t miss this empowering conversation designed to inspire, motivate, and equip you to take your career to new heights. Remember to like, subscribe, and share this video with fellow creatives! Let’s keep the hustle alive and turn dreams into reality. #actingcareer #CommonSenseMamita #shortfilm #filmmakingtips #Hollywoodinsights #actingclasses #careeradvice #LydiaNicole #filmmakingtips #timemanagementforactors #actingcareeradvice #actingcareertips #crowdfundingstrategies CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Writing a Short Film for Yourself 15:31 - Baldi - The Film Concept 16:22 - Scriptwriting Process 18:25 - Producing the Film 24:30 - Budgeting Strategies 26:41 - Crowdfunding Techniques 30:55 - Navigating Film Festivals 33:32 - Festival Submission Requirements 36:00 - Importance of On-Set Photography 38:16 - Building Film Social Media Presence 40:38 - Selecting Film Festivals for Submission 43:40 - Baldi's Film Festival Submissions 46:14 - Intentionality in Festival Submissions 48:45 - Future Festival Submission Criteria 53:20 - Effective Networking Tips 58:35 - Image Awards Campaign Strategies 1:03:11 - Promoting Your Project 1:11:40 - Film Festival Strategy Insights 1:12:24 - Attending Cannes Film Festival 1:20:02 - Short Film Production Advice 1:28:32 - Reasons for Moving to New York 1:31:37 - Relocating to New York City 1:34:50 - Landing a Job at CBS 1:37:52 - Career Beginnings at WHCR 1:40:10 - Starting a YouTube Channel 1:47:26 - Entering Production Work 1:52:54 - Securing Your Next Job 1:55:07 - On-Set Etiquette Essentials 1:58:04 - Financial Management in Film 2:01:14 - Acting Smarter in Your Career 2:04:57 - Coaching for Auditions 2:12:27 - Goal Setting in Your Career 2:14:00 - Future Accomplishments in 3 Years Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

    2h 20m
  3. JAN 20

    Stop Manifesting Wrong - You Need to Hear This

    Send us a text Stop manifesting wrong! 🚀 In this powerful conversation, Lydia Nicole and Monique Nicole dive into how intentional manifestation, faith, and focused action can transform your career and personal life. From breaking down limiting beliefs to building habit-stacking accelerators, this video is packed with actionable insights to help you manifest success in the creative industry. Learn how to live intentionally, create a manifestation storyboard, and align with your purpose using spiritual principles. Lydia shares personal stories of overcoming challenges, finding joy, and stepping into her calling as an actor and coach. Plus, Monique reveals the life-changing strategies and wisdom she's gained from coaching purpose-driven women in her Manifestation Circle. Whether you're an actor in Los Angeles, a creative looking for clarity, or someone seeking alignment in your journey, this video has something for you. Don’t miss out on these tips for boosting your manifestation IQ and creating a fulfilling career in the arts.  Have questions or thoughts? Leave a comment below and join the conversation. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this video to inspire others. Let’s manifest greatness together! ✨ #ManifestationSecrets #ActingCareer #PurposeDrivenLiving #CreativeSuccess #CommonSenseMamita #creativevisualization #manifestationtechniques #intentionalliving #personaldevelopment #spiritualmanifestation CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:37 - What is Manifestation 01:17 - Excitement about Manifestation 03:13 - Understanding Manifestation 09:06 - Joel 2:25 Explained 12:24 - Walking Out Scripture 16:51 - Ministering to the Broken 20:46 - Joining the Manifestation Circle 23:59 - Manifestation Party Overview 27:46 - Seven Categories of Manifestation 31:30 - Habit Stacking & Storyboarding 37:40 - Power of Community in Manifestation 42:10 - First Step: Unblocking and Unclearing 44:30 - Unpacking Beliefs for Manifestation 49:12 - Practicing God's Presence 53:14 - Faith: Substance of Hope 56:03 - Shifting Your Mindset 01:00:09 - Importance of Supportive People 01:05:10 - Moving Forward in Manifestation 01:08:20 - Your Role vs. God's Role 01:13:30 - Understanding Scarcity 01:14:01 - Combating Scarcity Mindset 01:18:30 - Changing Your Questions 01:20:10 - Clearing Energy Between Desires 01:26:34 - Trusting God’s Timing 01:29:14 - Trusting God Over Man 01:33:39 - Connecting with Monique 01:36:43 - Outro Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

    1h 40m
  4. JAN 10

    Dream Big: Strategies for Actors & Creatives

    Send us a text Dream big and take your acting career to the next level with actionable strategies and inspiring insights!  In today’s episode, Lydia Nicole speaks with Sonya Denyse, an incredible visionary guide and dream strategist, about how actors and creatives can transform their dreams into daily success. From finding clarity and courage to overcoming challenges in Hollywood, this conversation is packed with practical advice and heartwarming anecdotes to motivate and empower you. Discover how discipline and dreaming intersect to create a purposeful career, learn about the importance of mindset, and gain tips on navigating industry hurdles, including toxic teams, impostor syndrome, and finding your unique voice. Sonia shares real-life stories that illustrate how reimagining your path can lead to breakthroughs, whether that’s pivoting creatively or embracing new tools like AI in entertainment.  If you’re an aspiring actor, seasoned artist, or someone seeking career success in the creative world, this video will reignite your passion and provide the tools to dream bigger, achieve more, and create lasting impact. Remember, your unique gifts are needed in the world—let’s help you share them!  Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more acting tips, career advice, and Hollywood insights. Let’s grow together and turn your dreams into unstoppable realities! #ActingCareer #CommonSenseMamita #DreamBig #creativitytools #artisticgrowth #goalsetting #artisticgrowth CHAPTERS: 00:31—What is a Dream Strategist 01:13 - Discovering Your Dream 05:28 - Anchoring in the Industry 07:15 - Expanding Your Community 08:34 - Being Centered in Authenticity 11:00 - Being of Service in the Industry 14:58 - Dreaming and Actors' Industry Reimagination 17:42 - The Discipline of Dreaming 20:20 - Importance of a Doula in Creative Work 24:45 - Identifying Toxic Team Members 27:33 - Employee vs. Entrepreneur Mindset 28:38 - Building Your Unique Creative Team 30:56 - Toxic Work Environments in the Arts 34:34 - Chaos and Creativity in the Process 36:40 - Negotiating with Your Lower Self 40:39 - Embracing Your Differences 44:48 - Dealing with Feelings of Being Different 49:22 - Importance of Owning Your Genius 53:01 - Harlem: A Hub for Dreams 54:06 - Childhood Artistic Abilities 1:00:46 - Deciding to Work Behind the Scenes 1:06:32 - The Concept of Fasting 1:08:13 - Experiences in the Church 1:11:50 - Understanding Your Relationship with Jesus 1:18:30 - Using AI as an Actor 1:22:30 - Transitioning to Theatre 1:23:44 - AI Tools for Actors 1:26:09 - Necessity of Social Media for Actors 1:32:05 - The Rise of Live Streaming 1:35:06 - Connecting Dreaming with Goal Setting 1:39:35 - Vision for the Next 3 Years 1:41:58 - The Importance of Connection for Creatives 1:46:38 - Sonya's Poem Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

    1h 51m
  5. JAN 7

    The Day Yareli Arizmendi Stopped Auditioning and Started Creating

    Send us a text Are you ready to break through the noise and make your mark in Hollywood?  In this episode of "Acting Smarter," I sit down with the incredible actress and producer Yareli Arizmendi to uncover her inspiring journey—from creating impactful projects like "A Day Without a Mexican" to using creativity as a tool for change. Together, we dive into the challenges and triumphs of navigating the entertainment industry, exploring the essential acting tips and insights you need to craft your own unstoppable career. Learn how to embrace your unique voice, create meaningful content, and turn Hollywood's hurdles into stepping stones. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your acting career, this conversation is packed with actionable advice, empowering stories, and Hollywood secrets you won't want to miss. 🌟  Don't wait for opportunity—create it! Subscribe for more career success stories, Hollywood insights, and tools to help you thrive in the creative industry. Like, share, and comment to join the conversation. Let's take your undiscovered talent to unstoppable heights together! 💥 #actingcareer #CommonSenseMamita #HollywoodInsights #ActingTips #CareerSuccess #womeninfilm #creatingcontentinhollywood #latinorepresentation #latinorepresentationfilm #politicalthemesinfilm CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:26 - Most Rebellious Thing You've Done 03:42 - Realizing Your Voice Matters 07:04 - Who is Yareli? 14:00 - Mother's Influence on Your Journey 18:45 - Discovering Your Passion for Acting 21:01 - Learning English as a Second Language 24:53 - High School Experience in Kansas 27:50 - College Life in San Diego 37:06 - College Education: Nutrition, Economics, Political Science 38:56 - Political Science and Theater Studies 46:03 - Connection with Like Water for Chocolate 55:09 - Auditioning for Like Water for Chocolate 57:10 - Film's Impact on Your Career 59:30 - Moving to LA and Academic Career Start 1:02:48 - Working in LA: First Steps 1:05:48 - Learning the Business of Acting 1:09:43 - Getting Your Union Card 1:14:00 - Embrace by the Latino Community 1:16:05 - A Day Without a Mexican Overview 1:23:20 - Working with Your Husband in Film 1:28:26 - Hollywood's DEI Rollback Discussion 1:29:48 - Sustaining Yourself Financially as an Artist 1:32:16 - Securing Film Funding Strategies 1:38:11 - Importance of Dignity in Art 1:43:00 - Overcoming Doubt and Finding Inspiration 1:47:24 - Protecting Your Creative Work 1:48:31 - Power of Social Media for Artists 1:52:21 - Making Money as an Artist 1:56:05 - Embracing Entrepreneurship in Art 1:59:49 - Artistic Goals for the Next 3 Years Get the Acting Smarter Digital Planner and Course bundle for free until Oct 15, 2025 Support the show

    2h 12m
  6. Nobody Teaches Creatives This: How to Master the Business of Art

    12/13/2025

    Nobody Teaches Creatives This: How to Master the Business of Art

    Send us a text 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 Support the show

    1h 56m
  7. Live Performance | The Unfair Advantage Most Actors Ignore

    12/11/2025

    Live Performance | The Unfair Advantage Most Actors Ignore

    Send us a text 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 Support the show

    1h 48m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Immerse yourself in the rich, dynamic world of 'Acting Smarter Now" with Lydia Nicole,your vibrant guide to mastering the business and craft of acting. With Lydia, aseasoned industry veteran of 40 years, you'll experience a journey of practicalwisdom, brimming with empowerment, and street-wise common sense. 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. 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. '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. Hop on board for the ride of a lifetime with Lydia. Engage withher on social media, stay updated with her latest episodes, and make yourartistic and business journey smarter, confident, and joyful!