One Broke Actress Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: Working Actor Life: The Reality of Six-Figure Side Jobs
Host: Sam Valentine
Guest: Gabrielle Benloss
Release Date: February 13, 2025

1. Introduction to Side Hustles in Acting

Sam Valentine and Gabrielle Benloss kick off the episode by delving into the realities of managing side hustles alongside an acting career. They emphasize the misconceptions people have about the actors' lives and the necessity of having multiple income streams.

Notable Quote:

• Sam (00:00): "An honest account of actor life, plus a few lessons I learned in the process."

2. The Daily Juggle: Balancing Acting and Business

The hosts discuss a typical day filled with auditions, workshops, personal responsibilities, and business tasks. They highlight the importance of time management and maintaining physical and mental well-being amidst the chaos.

Notable Quotes:

• Gabrielle (00:22): "Sam's having a coffee at 3:18 because she's already gone to a callback. She's gone to an acting workshop."
• Sam (01:00): "Did do some Pilates this morning. Good to keep your mind right."

3. Navigating ADHD in Business Management

Sam opens up about her ADHD diagnosis and its impact on her business operations. She shares how medication and structured routines have helped her manage her responsibilities more effectively.

Notable Quotes:

• Sam (04:43): "I've been responding back and forth to some friend emergency texts and I have also been checking in on part-time employees."
• Gabrielle (05:48): "All of the plot falls into having a podcast production company because I know a lot about it from Sam."

4. Evolution of Their Businesses Amid Industry Strikes

The conversation shifts to how strikes and industry changes have influenced their business strategies. They discuss the pivot to focused business efforts during downturns and the importance of outsourcing to maintain efficiency.

Notable Quotes:

• Gabrielle (08:30): "I can move everything around and just focus on [a series regular audition] and give that my 100%."
• Sam (12:12): "I've signed with a new manager in the beginning of 2024. Once again, did a bonus podcast about that."

5. Financial Realities: Understanding True Earnings

They break down the financial aspects of running side hustles, highlighting the difference between gross income and actual take-home pay after taxes and expenses. This section demystifies the notion of “six-figure” earnings.

Notable Quotes:

• Gabrielle (43:04): "At the end of the day, Sam and I were making $1,225 split between two people, taking home $600 a month from our side hustle."
• Sam (44:05): "It's just only going to make your acting career more understandable. It's going to make you value yourself higher when you understand where money goes."

6. Success Stories: Real-Life Examples from the Community

The hosts share inspiring stories from their membership, illustrating how side hustles have enabled actors to secure roles and achieve career milestones. They highlight the journey of Michelle, a flight attendant turned successful theater actress.

Notable Quotes:

• Guibrielle (48:34): "Michelle booked a callback and ultimately secured a theater production role despite her demanding job as a flight attendant."
• Sam (50:06): "It's the new world, especially for theater, too. That's incredible."

7. Promoting Side Hustle Academy: Empowering Actors

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to promoting their Side Hustle Academy. They outline its benefits, including community support, expert guidance, and practical lessons designed to help actors build and scale their side businesses effectively.

Notable Quotes:

• Gabrielle (37:19): "Side Hustle Academy is something that is like our baby because it's really the steps that we walked through."
• Sam (50:18): "Side Hustle Academy is now on sale. We are so excited."

8. Conclusion: Encouraging Financial Independence and Flexibility

Sam and Gabrielle conclude by reinforcing the importance of financial independence through side hustles. They encourage listeners to explore their own business ideas, emphasizing that success is attainable with the right mindset and support system.

Notable Quotes:

• Sam (53:37): "Side Hustle Academy is not a pyramid scheme. We have no stake in this game other than the fact that we just legitimately want everyone to be able to afford something they want to get, especially something for their acting career."
• Gabrielle (54:31): "We would love to see you inside Hustle Academy."

Key Takeaways:

• Multiple Income Streams: Essential for financial stability in the unpredictable acting industry.
• Time and Energy Management: Crucial for balancing acting roles, side businesses, and personal well-being.
• Community and Support: Leveraging partnerships and memberships can significantly enhance business efficiency and personal growth.
• Realistic Financial Planning: Understanding the true earnings and expenses helps in setting achievable business goals.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Embracing change and seeking expert guidance can lead to sustained success.

Final Thoughts:

This episode offers a transparent look into the life of working actors who successfully manage side hustles. Sam and Gabrielle provide actionable advice, personal anecdotes, and valuable resources to empower actors to achieve financial independence without compromising their passion for acting.

For more insights and to join their Side Hustle Academy, visit One Broke Actress Podcast.