Getting Started

How to Build an Acting Career While Keeping Your Day Job

So, you’ve caught the acting bug—but you’re not quite ready to quit your 9-to-5 and survive on canned soup and hope. Smart move. The truth is, most working actors aren’t living off their acting gigs alone. They’re building careers piece by piece—while bartending, teaching, freelancing, or clocking in at a desk job. And you know what? That’s not failure. That’s strategy.

Let’s talk about how to pursue acting seriously without quitting your job, going broke, or losing your mind.

Understanding the Landscape (a.k.a. You’re Not Alone)

Acting isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme—it’s a long game. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, acting jobs are projected to grow just 3% between 2019 and 2029. That’s about average. What isn’t average is the competition.

A 2018 survey by the UK actors’ union Equity found that 61% of actors earned less than £5,000 per year from acting. Translation: even talented, trained professionals often need a second income.

This doesn’t mean acting’s a pipe dream. It just means building a career while keeping a “survival job” is the norm, not the exception.

Choosing the Right Work Setup

Part-Time or Freelance Jobs

Pros:

Flexible hours mean you can say “yes” to last-minute auditions.
Easier to fit in classes, workshops, or filming gigs.
Less burnout if managed well.

Cons:

Less stable income.
May lack health benefits or long-term security.

Tip: Think service industry, remote work, tutoring, voiceover gigs—anything with flexible hours and no guilt trips when you take time off.

Full-Time Job with Predictable Hours

Pros:

Steady paycheck = less financial stress.
Benefits like health insurance, retirement, etc.
Some structure can help you stay focused.

Cons:

You’ll need to get creative to fit in auditions and shoots.
PTO becomes gold—spend it wisely.

Pro Move: Talk to your boss. Seriously. You don’t have to tell them you’re starring in Shakespeare in the Park, but some employers are surprisingly supportive of creative pursuits.

Smart Scheduling: The Actor’s Real Superpower

Balancing two lives means you’ve got to treat your time like it’s currency.

Use digital calendars (like Google Calendar or Notion) to block time for auditions, work, and rest.
Set weekly acting goals—not vague ones like “get famous,” but tangible ones: Submit to 5 roles. Practice 2 monologues. Attend 1 virtual casting Q&A.
Schedule downtime. Burnout doesn’t make you a hero—it just makes you tired and less creative.

🎯 Ready to make a plan? Grab The Working Actor Starter Kit to map out your goals, set up your tools, and stop feeling stuck.

The Great Debate: Play It Safe or Dive In?

Some say don’t quit your job until you’ve booked five network co-stars and a national commercial. Others say leap and build the parachute on the way down.

Here’s the real truth: only you know what level of risk you can handle.

If you’re losing sleep over money, keep the job. If you’ve got a safety net and the freedom to try something bold? Maybe it’s time for a bigger leap.

There’s no shame in either path. The only shame is in standing still because you’re afraid to start.

Use Tech to Your Advantage

Online Auditions Are a Game-Changer

Platforms like Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks let you record self-tapes on your schedule. You don’t need to live in LA or NYC anymore—you just need a decent ring light (ugh, don’t make me say it) and a clean backdrop.

💡 Want a self-tape setup that doesn’t break the bank? Check out my recommended gear on the Actor Resources page.

Build a Digital Presence

Casting directors Google you. So give them something to find:

Create a simple actor website or profile page with your headshots, resume, and reel.
Use Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to post monologues, sketches, or behind-the-scenes content.
Don’t stress about going viral. Just be consistent and authentic.

Networking Without the Awkward Small Talk

Attend Workshops and Local Events

Look for local showcases, meetups, or even free Zoom panels. You don’t need to “schmooze”—you need to connect. Ask questions. Be curious. Follow up.

Join Actor Communities

Facebook groups, Discord servers, and local theatre boards are great places to find gigs, vent about weird auditions, and celebrate wins.

Protect Your Passion (and Your Mental Health)

Reignite your spark. Watch great performances. Re-read your favorite play. Remind yourself why you’re doing this.
Unplug regularly. Constant hustle leads to burnout. And no, you’re not “falling behind” if you rest.
Celebrate the small stuff. Booked a student film? Got a callback? Finally memorized that tricky scene? That’s a win.

Bottom Line: Your Acting Journey, Your Terms

Balancing a day job and an acting career isn’t about compromise—it’s about strategy. You’re not “less committed” because you also want health insurance and rent money. You’re more prepared.

So keep showing up. Keep submitting. Keep learning.

🎬 Need help getting started or getting back on track? My Free Getting Started Guide is a no-fluff roadmap for beginners and late starters alike.

The Truth About Acting Coaches

Getting Started, Training

When They Help — and When to Run

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of acting. Whether you’re a late bloomer chasing a new dream or reigniting an old flame, chances are you’ve asked yourself: “Should I get an acting coach?”

Great question. Grab a seat—because we’re breaking down when coaches are worth their weight in gold, and when you should sprint in the other direction (preferably off-stage).

What Does an Acting Coach Actually Do?

Think of a great acting coach like a Swiss Army knife for your career. They help you:

Refine your technique
Tap into emotional authenticity
Prepare for auditions
Navigate career choices
Avoid that weird thing your eyebrow does when you’re nervous

Coaching isn’t new. It dates all the way back to ancient Greek theater and evolved dramatically with the rise of Stanislavski, Strasberg’s Method, and the Meisner Technique. Today, in the era of streaming overload and self-taped auditions, coaching is more relevant than ever—and more available than ever (for better or worse).

The Pros of Hiring an Acting Coach

🧠 Personalized Feedback

YouTube is great. But it won’t pause your scene to help you drop into a stronger emotional beat. A coach sees what you don’t and offers feedback tailored to you—not a generic audience.

🔧 Skill Development

Maybe you’ve never heard of the Chekhov Technique or how to layer objectives into a monologue. A good coach will expand your toolkit beyond your comfort zone.

🤝 Networking Perks

It’s not just who you know—it’s who knows you. Many coaches are well-connected and can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

🥊 Accountability

Left to our own devices, we actors are world-class procrastinators. Coaching gives you structure, deadlines, and someone who notices when you’re slacking.

The Cons of Hiring an Acting Coach

💸 Cost

Good coaching isn’t cheap. It’s an investment—but not one to make lightly. Be honest about your budget and goals before diving in.

🎭 Variable Quality

Some coaches are amazing. Some are… not. There’s no regulation in this space, which means anyone can claim the title.

🛑 Dependency

It’s easy to rely too much on a coach. At some point, you’ve got to take the training wheels off and trust yourself in the moment.

To Coach or Not to Coach: The Debate

🎓 The Supportive View

Plenty of actors swear by their coaches. The consistent feedback, skill-building, and guidance are invaluable—especially early on. Coaching is viewed as essential by many casting pros and working actors alike.

🧐 The Skeptical View

Others argue that the industry is oversaturated with underqualified coaches. Some charge premium prices with little to back it up. One seasoned actor put it best: “A good coach teaches you how to fish—not just hands you a fish.”

Red Flags: When to Run Like You’re in a Slasher Flick

🚩 Grand Promises

Anyone claiming they can make you famous is either lying or starting a cult. Real coaches develop your craft—not your IMDb page.

🚩 Flimsy Credentials

They don’t need a PhD, but they should have a resume with real-world experience, student testimonials, or actual training. Google them. Trust me.

🚩 Pressure Tactics

If they’re pushing you into pricey packages, “elite memberships,” or endless upsells, walk away. Respectful pros let their work—and your results—speak for themselves.

How to Choose the Right Acting Coach (Without Losing Your Shirt)

Finding the right coach is like dating: chemistry matters, and there are a few frogs along the way. Here’s your no-BS checklist:

Research Their Background
Look at their training, career, and past students. Instagram clout is not a qualification.
Attend a Trial Class
Many offer one-offs. Test the waters before diving into a full program.
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Yelp, Google, and actor forums are your friends. So are referrals from trusted actors.
Ask About Their Teaching Philosophy
Are they rigid or flexible? Do they teach “one way” or meet you where you are?
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off—even if you can’t explain why—listen to that feeling.

Final Thoughts: Trust, But Verify

Acting coaches can be a game-changer. The right one will sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and help you avoid rookie mistakes. But the wrong one? They’ll waste your time, your money, and maybe even your enthusiasm.

So take your time. Ask questions. And remember—it’s your journey. You’re allowed to be choosy.

🎬 Want more help navigating the first steps of your acting journey?
The Working Actor Starter Kit includes a step-by-step roadmap, red flag checklist, and coaching tips that’ll save you time, money, and emotional whiplash.

Break a leg—but don’t break the bank.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the author and not a substitute for professional career or legal advice.

Is It Too Late for Me to Start Acting?

Acting, Encouragement, Getting Started

A Brutally Honest (but Hopeful) Guide for Late Bloomers

So, you’re staring into the mirror asking, “Is it too late for me to start acting?” First off, kudos for even entertaining the idea. Whether you’re 35 or 75, the thought of stepping into the limelight is both exhilarating and—let’s be real—a little terrifying.

Here’s the short answer: No, it’s not too late. In fact, your timing might be better than you think. Let’s unpack the myths, the facts, and the game plan—without any sugarcoating.

The Industry Landscape: A Changing Scene

The Average Age of Actors: Not What You Think

Did you know the average age of working actors in the U.S. is 47? According to SAG-AFTRA data, this industry isn’t just for the young and Botoxed. In fact, there’s rising demand for older actors—especially in commercials, TV, and voiceover work.

Industries like healthcare, finance, and senior lifestyle brands want relatable, mature faces. Translation? You’re not delusional—you’re in demand.

Casting Trends: The Golden Age Range

Casting breakdowns frequently request actors aged 50 to 70+. That’s not a fluke—it’s a trend. Audiences want to see people they actually relate to. Wrinkles, wisdom, life experience? Those are casting gold. Your lived experience becomes your unique selling point, not a drawback.

Not sure how to even begin? My Start Where You Are guide was made for this exact moment—it’s the gentle but clear roadmap I wish I’d had when I started late. Check it out here.

Pros and Cons of Starting Later in Life

The Upside:

Breaking Stereotypes:
Talent, charisma, and lived experience often outshine youth. Forget chasing the “young and pretty” mold—authenticity wins.
Data-Backed Hope:
You’re not dreaming. You’re supported by real numbers and real-world examples.
Niche Markets:
Some roles simply require older actors—reverse mortgage ads, retirement communities, medical dramas, family matriarchs. You’re not competing with 20-year-olds. You’re in your own lane.

The Trade-Offs:

Avoiding False Promises:
No, you’re probably not going to become the next Morgan Freeman (but hey, even he started late). The goal isn’t fame—it’s fulfillment.
Emotional Pushback:
“I’m too old for this” is the mental loop you’ll need to shut down regularly. Growth isn’t comfortable. But neither is regret.

Traditional vs. Modern Thinking

The Old View: “Start Young or Don’t Start at All”

The entertainment world used to worship youth above all else. That belief still echoes in casting rooms and training programs—but it’s fading.

The Modern View: “Experience is Your Edge”

Today’s industry values depth and authenticity. And who better to deliver that than someone who’s lived a little (or a lot)? You’re not faking the tears—you’ve earned them. That gives you a creative advantage.

New here and not sure what to focus on first? My free guide Start Where You Are will help you find your footing without wasting time or money on the wrong things. Grab your copy.

The Elephant in the Room: Gaps and Contradictions

Acting Education Still Skews Young

Many acting schools still gear their training toward 20-somethings trying to break into Hollywood. Frustrating, right? But don’t worry—there are plenty of coaches and programs tailored to mature talent.

And yes, Start Where You Are includes tips on choosing classes that won’t treat you like a college kid or upsell you into a scam.

Visibility Still Lags Behind

While demand is growing, we’re not yet seeing hordes of late-starters in the spotlight. But someone has to lead the charge. Why not you?

Making the Leap: First Steps That Actually Matter

1. Invest in Training
Look for workshops and coaches who understand the unique needs of late-blooming actors. Community theaters and online platforms are often welcoming and flexible.

2. Network Smartly
Join local acting groups. Participate in table reads. Volunteer backstage. Your next opportunity might start over a shared cup of bad coffee.

3. Get Professional Headshots
No glamour shots, no heavy filters. Get headshots that show who you are right now. That’s who casting directors want to see.

4. Start Auditioning—Now
Don’t wait until you “feel ready.” The best way to learn is by doing. Each audition is practice, even if it ends in a “no.”

5. Stay in the Loop
Subscribe to casting sites. Read industry blogs. Keep up with trends. Your awareness can be your edge.

Don’t want to figure it all out from scratch? I built Start Where You Are to help people like us skip the overwhelm. It’s short, practical, and totally free. Get it here.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not a Fantasy—It’s a Path

Starting later in life doesn’t mean you’re late to the game. It means you’ve got something real to offer—perspective, presence, and passion. Sure, it’s a winding path, but it’s yours to walk.

If you’re still wondering whether it’s too late to act, let me say this clearly: The only “too late” is never starting.

The spotlight isn’t just for the young. It’s for the bold. Step into it.

And if you want someone to walk you through those early steps without the fluff or the overwhelm, Start Where You Are is waiting for you. Click here to grab it.

You’re Thinking About Becoming an Actor? Good. Start Here.

Acting, Encouragement, Getting Started

If you’re reading this, there’s a decent chance you’ve said some version of:

“I’ve always wanted to try acting… but I never knew where to start.”

Maybe you’re 22. Maybe you’re 62. Maybe you’re coming out of a job you hated, or a career that’s winding down, or you just woke up one day and thought, Why the hell not?

Here’s the truth:
You don’t need permission to get started. You just need a plan.
And you don’t need to be young, connected, or classically trained. You just need to begin.

Figure Out What “Acting” Means to You

Acting is a huge umbrella. Are you curious about film and TV? Voiceover? Theater? Commercials? Background work? Improv?

You don’t have to decide everything up front. But knowing what excites you will help guide your first steps.

Not sure? Try everything. Sign up for a class. Audition for a play. Submit to a background casting call. You’ll learn what fits—and what doesn’t—by doing, not Googling.

You Don’t Need Fancy Headshots to Start

Let’s be clear: professional headshots are important—but not on Day One.

If you’re brand new, start by:

Taking clear, natural-light photos of yourself (no filters, no sunglasses)
Creating a basic resume with any relevant experience (even if it’s just your work history or life skills)

When you’re ready to audition for speaking roles or agents, then invest in pro headshots. For now, be resourceful.

Background Work Is a Legit Way to Start

One of the best ways to get comfortable on set is to start as a background actor (extra).

Learn set etiquette
See how things work behind the scenes
Get paid
And most importantly, figure out if this whole acting thing actually feels right

Background work doesn’t require an agent, a reel, or acting experience. Just follow directions, show up on time, and be professional.

Find a Class (But Don’t Fall for a Sales Pitch)

You do not need to spend thousands on some fast-track-to-fame program.

What you need:

A reputable class with a working actor or teacher who emphasizes technique over hype
A schedule that works with your life
A safe space to try, fail, grow, and try again

If you’re nervous, start with a workshop or drop-in class. You’ll get a taste of the work before you commit.

Know the Industry Scams (So You Can Avoid Them)

Quick rule of thumb: if someone promises to “make you famous,” keep walking.

Some red flags to watch for:

Anyone who charges you to audition
“Agents” who want money up front
Schools that make you sign a contract after one free class
Acting “conventions” that promise exposure, but mostly drain your wallet

Reputable agents get paid when you get paid. And good training takes time—not pressure tactics.

Rejection Isn’t Personal. It’s Part of the Process.

You will not book every role. Not even close.

But here’s the secret most actors learn (the hard way): It’s not really rejection—it’s selection.

Casting is a jigsaw puzzle. Sometimes you’re not the right shape, no matter how great your performance was. That doesn’t mean you failed. It means someone else fit the piece better.

Learn from it. Then let it go. Move on to the next thing.

Your Life Experience Is a Superpower

If you’re not fresh out of school—congrats. That’s not a weakness. It’s an asset.

You’ve worked jobs. You’ve raised kids. You’ve lived through stuff that gives you depth and insight younger actors can’t fake.

Don’t worry about “catching up.” Focus on being present, real, and connected. That’s what great acting is made of.

You Don’t Need to Be Famous to Be Successful

Acting success doesn’t mean red carpets and magazine covers.

It might mean:

Booking your first commercial
Performing in community theater
Voicing a podcast character
Getting cast in an indie film
Simply growing in confidence and creativity

If it lights you up, it counts.

Want Help Getting Started? I’ve Got You Covered.

If you’re still exploring the idea of acting, I’ve got a free beginner’s guide designed especially for late starters.

It’s called the Beginner’s Guide to Breaking Into Acting After Retirement — but honestly, it’s helpful no matter how old you are. This short, practical resource will help you:

Understand how the industry works
Learn what to skip (so you don’t waste money)
Take your first real step with confidence

Grab your free copy here

Already know you want to do this — but still battling a few doubts?

Then check out Start Where You Are, my $6.99 mindset guide for actors who didn’t start at 22 and are tired of feeling “too late.”

It’s a fast, encouraging read with zero fluff — just truth, perspective, and a clear reminder that you’re right on time.

Start reading here

Final Thought

There is no deadline on doing something that excites you.
You’re not too late. You’re not too old. And you’re not alone.

If acting keeps calling your name, don’t ignore it. You don’t need a reason or a resume. You just need a first step.

And you’ve already taken it—by reading this far.

Now go take the next one.

Heads up: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. Think of it as tossing a tip in the jar so I can keep creating helpful stuff (and maybe upgrade my lighting setup).

Overcoming Inertia – or – Bloom Where You are Planted

Acting, Encouragement, Getting Started, Wisdom

Welcome back!

And thanks for reading! This week I’d like to talk a little bit about what I’ll call “overcoming inertia”. What do I mean by that? I mean, (to use a few cliché phrases) – getting the ball rolling, a rolling stone gathers no moss, you can’t get where you are going If you stay where you’re at, if you never start, you’re already finished…and other equally cringy things people say. What I want to talk about this week is pursuing your dreams instead of just dreaming about them.

REMEMBER:

Just a reminder here that when I use the term “actor” I mean it to encompass all forms of acting including voice, stage, and screen. Yeah, I know I say this every week, but it falls under the heading of “The things that go without saying are the things that most need to be said”. What follows applies relatively equally to all of these forms of acting.

A conversation

Several years ago, I was speaking to one of my in-laws and he was lamenting the fact that he was almost 40 years old, unmarried, childless and without a clear direction in his career (OK, simple truth is he had a job and not a career). He moaned that all of his friends were married, with children, had a good career and owned a home. He was living in a sibling’s spare room, single and working at some entry level job (I don’t recall what it was). He expected to be in the same place as his friends by this point in his life.

A question…

In response to his whining (did I say that out loud?) I asked him: If you expected to have these things by this time, what steps have you taken to get them? He looked at my quizzically and just said: Huh. Truth is, he just expected them to sort of, happen. When I explained to him that these things don’t just happen, but we have to pursue them he seemed dumbfounded. I don’t take credit for it, but now several years later he has a career he loves, a wife, three kids and owns a home. He didn’t get them overnight, but once he decided to start taking steps to achieve what he wanted…he did. He stopped letting life “just happen” to him.

A different conversation

Not bragging, but I am personally pretty well off. I am retired with two pensions and a fair amount of money set aside to carry me through this last phase of life. I made some good decisions early in life and am now reaping the benefits of them. Many of my family members over the years made comments about how “lucky” I was and how “unfair” it was that I had more than they did. I finally got fed up and told them: If you want what I have, do what I did.

More recently

Social media is a wonderful thing. I recently had a distant friend post something about how “lucky” veterans are to have VA benefits. And, yeah, the VA benefits are great, but the 20 years of active duty, while it had some great moments, were not always so great. The VA benefits are deferred payment for all the birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and other important family events we got to miss because we were deployed in some far-off place. The only response to something like that is: The recruiting office was open for them too!

And so…

Some recent events got me thinking about this, and it occurred to me that there are people in this world who just let life happen to them. They look at other people and think about how lucky they are or blame past events or other people for their “lot in life”. They do this without ever considering what actions they should take to change their situation. Here is what I have learned in 63 years of life: No one has a “lot in life”. Nothing is pre-determined, and you can ALWAYS do something about it. Granted, nothing happens overnight…but if you don’t take steps to change things then…nothing changes (at least not for the better).

Maybe that sounds insensitive.

Look, I recognize everyone’s situation is different. Some people have health issues or disabilities that hold them back from pursuing a dream. Some have financial issues that limit what they can do right now. Some have responsibilities that reduce the amount of risk they can take. Not everyone can become an astronaut, or a pro basketball player, or President of the United States. Everyone’s situation is different. It may be necessary to let go of one dream and pursue another more attainable dream. I maintain there are steps you can take to begin improving your situation and move you toward the pursuit of a dream.

And here’s the thing…

The time to start pursuing a dream is NOW, not LATER. It doesn’t matter what your situation is, it doesn’t matter what happened in the past, it doesn’t matter how old you are or how long it will take to get there. I will caveat the, it doesn’t matter what happened in the past with: What happened in the past matters only insofar as how it informs what you do now. What happened in the past is useful only for how it informs your future (my kids hate this saying of mine).

It doesn’t matter how old you are…

I want to park on that for just a moment. Many people will think it is too late or it will take too long to achieve that dream. To that I say: poppycock! (OK, I just wanted to write poppycock). Seriously, think about this: If it is going to take 5 (or 10 or 15) years to achieve some milestone in your life, those 5 or more years will pass whether or not you pursue it. Whether or not you actually achieve it, at a minimum you’ve given yourself a goal and a purpose to focus on. And you’ll be a lot closer to the dream than you are now too.

What does all this have to do with acting?

If you’ve made it this far into the article, you may be wondering what this has to do with acting. Well, I’ll tell you. Everything, assuming your dream is to be an actor. Or maybe nothing if it is something else, but hey this is an acting blog, right?

How many people…?

I wonder how many people watch a show or movie, or listen to an audio book and think: “I could do that!” (This thought is EXACTLY what got me started) …and then just watch another show or listen to another audio book. I’m making an assumption here, because I doubt any studies have been done, but I am going to assume a fair number of people.

And you know what?

The truth is, you’re right. You COULD do that. But many times, you don’t. But you SHOULD. If it is something you dream of, and desire you absolutely should! Will you be the next big A-list star who makes millions and is a household name? Probably not (but it is remotely possible – I mean hey, SOMEONE has to win the lottery). But you CAN become a working actor. The simple truth is you’ll never know if you don’t try. Sure, there will be obstacles, there will be difficulties, there will be failures even. While it’s not guaranteed you’ll reach the level you dream of, one thing is certain: If you don’t try you are guaranteed not to achieve that dream. And, of course, if it turns out you are just a terrible actor, or acting winds up not being what you thought it was…discard that dream and find a new one.

But I have no idea how to pursue an acting or VO career!

Yep, I get it. None of us knew how to go about it at the beginning, so you are in good company. It took me two years to figure out how to start narrating audio books – 0/10 I don’t recommend THAT). And the way to do it is different for everyone, there is not one fool proof way to go about it. But there are a lot of people out there who have traveled the path and can help. If I was going to tell you exactly how to pursue the dream to be successful, I’d say: find someone who is doing it and ask them for help.

But I don’t KNOW any actors!

You may know one or more without realizing it. It’s not like we wear a name tag or special T-shirt or something and we don’t typically go around announcing it (unless we’re asked…then we can talk about it for hours). You can, however, head on over to social media and find groups that have actors and ask them. Almost every actor I know is MORE than happy to help someone just getting started. If you run into one of the rare ones who isn’t, leave them behind and find another who is. You just have to ask. And of course, I am also happy to help, feel free to reach out with questions.

Don’t just let life happen to you.

No matter what your dream or passion I encourage you to pursue it. Find people who can point you in the right direction, find a local community theater to get some experience…do SOMETHING to “get the ball rolling”. Remember: A rolling stone gathers no moss. Get rolling!

If you enjoyed this, please leave a comment below to let me know. If you DIDN’T enjoy it, well, I’d like to hear from you too! And please feel free to share this blog on social media or with other people you think might enjoy it.

If you haven’t already, please feel free to subscribe so you don’t miss anything – and as a thank you receive a free copy of my E-Book: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About getting Started in Voice Over but Didn’t Know Who to Ask!

GARY MASON

443.624.3014

gary@gary-mason.com