Show Biz Pod

S2 E18: Real Estate for Actors – How Tyler Symone Built a Flexible Parallel Career

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:45:34 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire sit down with NYC-based actor and real estate agent Tyler Symone to talk about one of the most common parallel careers in the performing arts: real estate. Tyler shares how she transitioned from a draining remote survival job into a full-time career in real estate while continuing to pursue theater. They discuss the realities of commission-based income, building a client base from scratch, and why letting go of shame around doing work outside your art can actually expand your creative freedom.

What We Talked About

Why real estate has become a popular parallel career for actors and performers
Tyler’s journey from a remote insurance job to becoming a licensed NYC real estate agent
The reality of starting in real estate: building your own leads and working fully on commission
The surprising similarities between acting and real estate
Managing unpredictable income and the importance of saving during strong months
Practical advice for creatives interested in getting their real estate license and getting started

Links & Resources:

Keller Williams NYC – Tyler’s brokerage
New York Real Estate Institute – real estate licensing and education
Follow Tyler for NYC real estate and creative career insights
Instagram
TikTok

Connect With Us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/showbiz.pod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@show.biz.pod
Website: https://www.showbizpod.com
Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

S2 E17: From Self-Tapes to Style – How Actor Brooke Falcone Built Peach Sky Boutique

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:45:02 +0000

Actor and entrepreneur Brooke Falcone shares how she launched Peach Sky Boutique while pursuing acting, the practical steps behind starting an online boutique, and why business ownership can be a powerful tool for financial stability and flexibility as a creative. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually looks like to run a business alongside an acting career, this episode is for you.

What We Talked About

Why Brooke started Peach Sky Boutique after experiencing burnout from relying solely on acting income
The real logistics of launching a small business — from setting up an LLC to running a Shopify store
How she balances acting, running an online boutique, and coaching tumbling and cheer Marketing strategies that actually worked for her (including social media experimentation and community-driven promotion)
The surprising overlap between acting skills and running a business
Why business ownership can give creatives more flexibility and sustainability in their careers

Links & Resources:

Peach Sky Boutique — Brooke’s online clothing brand
Brooke's acting website
The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
The Power of the Actor by Ivana Chubbuck
Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

Connect With Us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/showbiz.pod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@show.biz.pod
Website: https://www.showbizpod.com

S2 E16: Your Network is Your Net Worth - Networking For Creatives (Without The Cringe)

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:30:42 +0000

Does networking HAVE to give you the ick? In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down how to network outside your comfort zone by building genuine relationships. If you’ve ever found it hard to bridge the gap of relationship-building in a public setting, this is the episode for you!

What We Talked About

How most creative jobs are passed through relationships instead of job boards
The difference between networking and building real community
How to stay top of mind without being annoying or transactional
Sending “one scary email a day” and why rejection isn’t the worst outcome
The power of genuine compliments, handwritten thank-you notes, and thoughtful follow-up
How being a connector and hype person for others builds long-term reciprocity

Links & Resources:

Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

Connect With Us:

S2 E15: From Princess Parties to Producing: How Makayla McIntosh Scaled a Family Entertainment Company Remotely

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:43:36 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with actor, producer, and entrepreneur Makayla McIntosh to talk about building an entertainment company that started as a high school accident and now runs remotely across state lines as she pursues her art. From princess parties to producing films, Makayla shares how business ownership has funded her art, reduced industry pressure, and expanded her creative freedom.

What We Talked About

How Makayla accidentally started her company in high school and turned it into a long-term, scalable business
Why you can’t rely on the entertainment industry to be your “everything”
Running a business remotely while living between Las Vegas, Vancouver, and beyond
Hiring a team and learning to relinquish control as a creative founder
The surprising overlap between producing films and running live events
Why building a business can actually take pressure off your artistic career
Tools and systems that make creative businesses sustainable
Why AI will never replace live human connection (and why that matters for artists)

Links & Resources:

HoneyBook (CRM platform Makayla uses to manage bookings and contracts)
Castle on a Cloud Entertainment Website
Castle on a Cloud Entertainment Instagram
Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

Connect With Us:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/showbiz.pod
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@showbiz.pod
Website – https://www.showbizpod.com

S2 E14: Ask Us Anything: Money for Artists, Our Side Hustles & NYC Actor Life

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:40:02 +0000

In this Ask Us Anything episode, Carissa and Emma Claire answer real listener questions about money, side hustles, entrepreneurship, burnout, and balancing creative careers in NYC. From budgeting and taxes to UGC, voiceover, and hustle culture, this is an honest conversation about building sustainable creative lives. If you’ve ever thought “am I doing this right?” this episode is for you.

What We Talked About

• Why we started Show Biz Pod and how our branding came together so intentionally

• Where to actually start with personal finance as a creative

• Saving money in NYC (buy nothing groups, Facebook Marketplace, and sneaky discounts)

• Doing your own taxes vs. outsourcing as a freelancer

• Balancing a day job, dream job, social life, and mental health

• When hustle culture goes too far

• How to get started as an entrepreneur when you don’t know what you’re doing

• Getting into voiceover and UGC in today’s market

• Why UGC is becoming the new commercial lane for actors

Links & Resources:

Rocket Money – https://www.rocketmoney.com

• Acorns – https://www.acorns.com

• Buy Nothing – https://buynothingproject.org

• FreeTaxUSA – https://www.freetaxusa.com

• Backstage – https://www.backstage.com

• Fiverr – https://www.fiverr.com

• Too Good To Go – https://www.toogoodtogo.com

• Canva – https://www.canva.com

Connect With Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/showbiz.pod

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@showbiz.pod

• Website: https://www.showbizpod.com

S2 E13: Investing 101 For Creatives - How To Watch Your Money Grow

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:30:59 +0000

Investing can feel intimidating - especially as a creative when your income is irregular and your job doesn’t come with a 401k. But don’t fear! In this episode, we sit down with Chief Investment Officer of Due West Wealth, Troy Harmon, to break down investing fundamentals in a way that actually makes sense for creatives. We talk simply about long-term strategy, beginner mistakes, and how building wealth can increase your creative freedom!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

What investing should actually look like for beginners
Why diversification matters more than picking hot stocks
ETFs vs mutual funds
Why starting small now beats waiting until you make more money
How inflation quietly erodes your savings (and how investing fights back)
Emergency funds, high-yield savings, and when to keep money liquid
Retirement options for freelancers and creatives without a 401k
How financial stability can give you more freedom to pursue creative work

RESOURCES & LINKS

Learn more about Troy’s investing services here
Mention ShowBizPod when you contact Troy & receive 10% off his beginner investing program
Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

CONNECT WITH US:

S2 E12: The Actor’s Guide to Digital Presence: Branding Tips from Jenna Leigh Miller

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:45:46 +0000

This week, we’re talking personal branding, social media, and digital presence for artists with actor and brand coach, Jenna Leigh Miller. Jenna shares how her online presence helped her book auditions, sign with a manager, and build multiple businesses while still pursuing her dreams of #JennaForBroadway!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

How Jenna built a social media management agency and brand coaching business while pursuing theatre
Why casting teams are Googling artists and how your Instagram can work as a digital portfolio
Whether actors really need to post on social media (and what to do if you hate posting)
The mindset shifts that make social media less intimidating and more strategic
Tools that helped Jenna scale her business
Practical first steps for artists building a digital presence without getting overwhelmed
Work-life balance as a multi-hyphenate

RESOURCES & LINKS

Follow Jenna here: @JennaLeighMiller
Check out Problem Solved by Jenna here!
Social media scheduling tool: Later.com (affiliate link available)
Show Biz Pod newsletter: The Direct Deposit
Be a guest on our show!

CONNECT WITH US:

S2 E11: Retirement 101 - How & Why To Start Saving Now

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:30:41 +0000

Retirement might feel like a problem for later in life...especially if you’re freelancing, auditioning, or stacking side hustles just to make rent right now. But planning for retirement is one of the most powerful things a creative person can do to protect themselves. In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down retirement in a clear, approachable way and explain how artists can start building security even without a 401k or consistent income.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

What a retirement account actually is
Why creatives need to care about retirement
The difference between Roth IRAs, 401ks, and brokerage accounts
Why Roth IRAs are especially powerful for freelancers, performers, and self-employed creatives
How compound interest works and why starting early matters
The order of operations for saving if you have access to multiple accounts
How to automate retirement contributions so saving happens without extra effort

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Helpful Nerd Wallet Articles!
The best index funds and how to start investing
Investing 101
Retirement 101
Brokerages mentioned: Fidelity, Schwab, and Vanguard
Break Your Budget with Michela Allocca

CONNECT WITH US:

That’s all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E10: Money Mindset for Creatives: Healing Financial Anxiety & Self-Worth with Therapist Amy Dykes

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:50:41 +0000

Why does money feel so emotional for creatives? In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire sit down with licensed therapist and lifelong creative Amy Dykes (MS, APC, NCC, E-YRT) to unpack financial anxiety, avoidance, and the deeply ingrained starving artist narrative.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why so many creatives struggle with fear, shame, and avoidance around money
How family upbringing and cultural narratives shape our relationship with finances
The emotional toll of rejection and inconsistent income on self-worth
Why avoidance is often a nervous system response, not laziness or failure
The damaging impact of the “starving artist” myth
How perfectionism shows up in financial habits
Practical ways to identify limiting money beliefs
Journaling prompts and mindfulness tools to build financial self-awareness

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Find more about Amy’s counseling here.
Download Amy’s Money Mindset Mini Journal here!
Sign up for The Direct Deposit, our free weekly recap newsletter
Download the 5 Things Financial Checklist and other free tools
Explore more about us at www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

That’s all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E9: What College Won’t Teach You: Money, Business Building, & Side Hustles with BFA Student Ruby Wolter

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 12:45:41 +0000

College is often framed as the finish line before a creative career begins, but for most artists, it’s actually the starting point. In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire sit down with current BFA student Ruby Wolter to talk about what school doesn’t teach artists about money, business, and long-term sustainability.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why college is the beginning of your career, not a waiting room
How Ruby turned her own college audition experience into a coaching business
When a “fun Instagram account” becomes a real income stream
The reality that auditioning is unpaid labor and how to financially plan for it
Why being a multi-hyphenate is a strategic choice, not a fallback
Letting go of the starving artist mentality early and building sustainability from the start

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Follow Ruby Wolter and RubyInRehearsal
Ruby’s book: The Audition Chronicles
Sign up for The Direct Deposit, our free weekly recap newsletter
Download the 5 Things Financial Checklist and other free tools
Explore more episodes at www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

S2 E8: A Financial Reset for Creatives - Budgeting, Saving, & Realistic Money Goals

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:50:19 +0000

Do you actually need extreme budgets and perfectly curated New Year’s resolutions to “be good with money”? Or is there another way to reset your finances that actually works for creatives?

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down how to approach money in the New Year without shame, pressure, or unrealistic expectations. For a mindset reset + tangible steps you can actually stick to, give it a listen.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How to reflect on last year’s spending without guilt or shame
What a “financial reset” really means (and what it doesn’t)
Realistic budgeting strategies for freelancers and artists
How to save money with inconsistent or seasonal income
Setting financial goals that fit your lifestyle - not TikTok’s
Why progress over perfection is the key to better money habits

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Sign up for The Direct Deposit - our free weekly recap newsletter!
5 Things Financial Checklist + other free tools to organize your money
Free Budget Tracker Spreadsheet
Be sure to check out our budgeting & savings episodes!
Submit a topic idea or guest pitch at www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

That’s all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E7: Portfolio Careers Explained: Designing One Career With All your Creative Passions

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:45:42 +0000

Most creatives don’t have just one job, and while this may feel chaotic, multiple income streams is the most strategic way to set yourself up for success in 2026 & beyond in most creative industries. In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down the concept of portfolio careers and why most artists are already living them (whether they realize it or not).

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

What a portfolio career actually is (and how it’s different from just side hustling)
The Gen Z shift toward income stacking and contract-based work
How artists have a competitive advantage in today’s freelance economy
The three layers of a portfolio career: anchor income, creative gigs, and scalable income
The reality of health insurance, seasonal income, and long-term planning as a creative
Why the language you use to describe your work matters more than you think

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Sign up for The Direct Deposit - our free weekly recap newsletter!
The Multi-Hyphen Life by Emma Gannon
Follow Anna McKenzie for portfolio career inspo
Tools for building your portfolio: Canva & Wix
Platforms mentioned: Fiverr, Cohley, Billo, Vidovo, Backstage Creator Profiles
5 Things Financial Checklist + other free tools to organize your money
Submit a topic idea or guest pitch at www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

That’s all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E6: Lawyer by Day, Model by Night - How Alyssa Ferreone Built A Multi-Passionate Life

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:45:03 +0000

Wearing suits by day & attending shoots at night, Alyssa Ferreone is living proof that you don’t have to choose between your practical and creative dreams. In this episode, we talk with the New York City-based attorney, model, and content creator about how she decided to take agency of her own life & start creating content and modeling on her terms. She balances a demanding legal career with a rapidly growing online presence, so we decided to ask how she does it & how negotiation, boundaries, and embracing the “cringe” are the key the making it work.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How Alyssa balances being a construction litigation attorney with modeling and content creation
The overlap between law and creative work
How she built a modeling career by posting online
Red flags to watch for in content contracts
Tips for burnout, boundaries, and staying in your creative flow
How her newsletter “Gloss Briefing” blends legal structure with lifestyle content
The power of networking with other women in business and making your own seat at the table

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Follow Alyssa on TikTok and Instagram:
Read her newsletter, Gloss Briefing: glossbriefing.substack.com
Alyssa’s firm: Cohen Seglias
Creator Conference Mentioned: Create & Cultivate
Alyssa’s inspo: Eli Rallo
Sign up for The Direct Deposit - our free weekly recap newsletter!
5 Things Financial Checklist + other free tools to organize your money
Submit a topic idea or guest pitch at www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

That’s all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E5: Is Free Work As A Creative Ever Worth It? Here's How To Decide...

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:25:41 +0000

Unpaid gigs with “great exposure,” a passion project with no budget, or a student film that might lead somewhere (but also... might not). In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down how to make smart, strategic choices about work that doesn’t offer monetary compensation, and how to know when it’s actually worth your time.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

The moments when working for free is actually valuable
The biggest red flags you should look out for before accepting a free gig
Why time, money, and energy are limited resources and how to protect them
Our personal stories of unpaid gigs that helped us (and ones we regret)
How to evaluate opportunity cost
Why “busy” doesn’t always mean “productive”
The rule of résumé, wallet, and soul and how to use it when weighing unpaid work

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

CONNECT WITH US:

That's all for now. See you next week! Xoxo

S2 E4: Negotiation for Artists: Knowing and Asking for Your Worth with Spencer Glass

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:48:31 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with actor and career coach Spencer Glass to talk about one of the most difficult and overlooked creative skills - negotiation and knowing your worth. Spencer shares real stories, mindset shifts, and tangible tools that help artists stop apologizing and start asking for what they really need in their career. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt uncomfortable asking for more or you’re worried that speaking up would make you seem “difficult” in your creative industry.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why taking off the “actor hat” and putting on the “business hat” is essential
How Spencer started coaching actors out of NYC coffee shops and scaled it into a thriving business
The myth that negotiation is rude and how to reframe it as clarity and leadership
Real-world negotiation language & email advice from Spencer’s own acting career
What you can negotiate in contracts besides just your paycheck
The concept of confident confrontation and building “I know I’m enough” energy
How small wins (like saying hi in an elevator) can train your brain to advocate for yourself

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Spencer’s website and coaching: www.spencerglass.com
Follow Spencer on Instagram: @hispencerglass
Follow Spencer on TikTok: @spencer.glass
Sign up for The Direct Deposit - our free weekly recap newsletter!
5 Things Financial Checklist + other free tools to organize your money

CONNECT WITH US:

That's all for now. See you next week! xoxo

S2 E3: Best Side Hustles for Artists: Ranking Every Gig We’ve Tried

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:45:16 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down and rank 15+ real-life side hustles they've actually done - Fiverr, babysitting, Etsy sales, background acting, Poshmark, and Pickle fashion rentals (just to name a few). Whether you're a performer, actor, freelancer, or multi-hyphenate looking to make money on your own terms, this episode gives you the honest truth about what's flexible, profitable, and what's simply not worth your time. If you’ve ever Googled “best side hustles for artists” or “creative freelance jobs,” this is your sign to tune in!

Get our FREE pdf "100 Side Hustles For Artists, Actors, and Creatives" here!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Our honest ratings of side hustles like Instacart, Etsy, Poshmark, Pickle, Fiverr, choir gigs, and more
Why not every gig is sustainable and how to know when it's not worth your time
How to think about scalability and creative alignment when evaluating new income streams
The surprising side hustles that actually paid well (and the ones we will never do again)
Go-to tools, platforms, and podcasts to help you explore new gigs and start earning

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Tools & Platforms Mentioned:
Fiverr: Freelance service marketplace
Pickle: Peer-to-peer fashion rental platform
Poshmark: Emma Claire’s Referral Link
Facebook Groups
Fun On Weekdays Networking & Career
Brand Ambassadors of New York
Brand Ambassadors of Atlanta

Podcasts:
The Side Hustle Show: Interviews with unique and scalable side hustlers
Side Checks Podcast: Creative business and side hustle insights (archived episodes available)
How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy: Etsy strategy tips for handmade and digital products

CONNECT WITH US:

That's all for now. See you next week! xoxo

S2 E2: Actor to Entrepreneur: How Jeremiah Smith Built The Casting Connection

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:42:57 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire sit down with actor and entrepreneur Jeremiah Smith to talk about how he built The Casting Connection - a platform that now helps thousands of actors find legit audition opportunities across the country. Jeremiah shares how solving his own problem led to a thriving tech-based business, how he balances it with a performing career, and what he’s learned about sustainability.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How Jeremiah transformed an idea into nationwide casting platform
What it’s really like to build a tech-based side hustle with zero business or coding background
How he balances regional acting contracts with daily platform maintenance
Why solving your own problem is often the best way to start a business
His biggest advice for artists wanting to build something that lasts

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

CONNECT WITH US:

That's all for now. See you next week! xoxo

S2 E1: Making Money Outside Your Art Isn’t Selling Out… Here’s Why

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:40:15 +0000

So.... is wanting to make money outside of your artistic field selling out? What if my "survival" job takes precedent sometimes? In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire get real about the guilt and stigma creatives often feel when their income doesn’t always come directly from their art. They talk about why business ownership and pursuing multiple streams of income can actually be empowering and used as a tool to sustain your life as a creative. For a pep talk + a tactical unpacking of what it means to be an artist in 2025 - give it a listen!

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why earning money outside of your art doesn't make you any less of an artist
Accepting that seasonal income is normal in creative careers and how to prepare for it
Why building multiple streams of income can support your dream, not distract from it
The case for business ownership as a flexible, sustainable path for creatives
Real stories of successful artists navigating survival jobs and 9-to-5s
Tools, mindsets, and habits that can help fund the art and the life you actually want

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Enter our giveaway by 11/19 here!
Join our email list for our newsletter - "The Direct Deposit" here.
RSVP to our launch party on 11/12 in NYC here.
5 THINGS CREATIVES CAN DO TODAY TO IMPROVE THEIR FINANCIAL FUTURE (free PDF) linked here.
Get our FREE pdf "100 Side Hustles For Artists, Actors, and Creatives" here!

CONNECT WITH US:

That's all for now. See you next week! xoxo

S1 E18: Season 1 Finale - The Ultimate Resource Roundup!

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:45:14 +0000

We made it to the end of Season 1 (!!) and we’re wrapping things up with a celebration of all the books, tools, creators, and community tips that helped shape this season. In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire round up every single resource mentioned by guests (and each other) throughout the first season of Show Biz Pod. Whether you’re ready to build better systems, manage your money, or take your creative career to the next level, this episode is your one-stop-shop.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

The books that changed the game for mindset, money, and creativity
Favorite podcasts, TikTok creators, and small business educators worth following
Community tips from our guests (including how to swap services & network authentically)
Coaching programs, mentorships, and studios that made a difference
Our go-to tools for taxes, scheduling, budgeting, and staying organized
Free resources we made just for you—linked on our website!

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Shop all book recs from this episode via our Amazon Storefront
Download our free budget template & financial checklist here!
Try our favorite tools: RocketMoney, Fetch, Notion, Google Calendar, Calendly
Follow our favorite creators: @breakyourbudget @itserinconfortin @mckenzie.mack @elirallo
Try our favorite educational resources: Innovative Studios, Caitlyn James Photography mentorships, Jen Waldman Studios
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)
Stay connected during the break: Instagram & TikTok @showbiz.pod
Join the email list for Season 2 updates & launches: www.showbizpod.com

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

SEE YOU IN THE FALL FOR SEASON 2 <3!!!!!!

S1 E17: From Crown to Coach: Landry Champlin on Building a Pageant Prep Business

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:45:55 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire chat with actor, pageant coach, and TikTok creator Landry Champlin about building a pageant coaching career rooted in confidence. After taking a step back from the pageant world, Landry built her coaching business from scratch and has turned it into her full-time job as a performer based in NYC. Tune in for Landry's take on burnout, imposter syndrome, and overall tips & tricks to navigating owning your own business while still pursuing theatre professionally.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

The mindset shifts that helped her move from fear to action when starting her business.
How a dream of moving to NYC led her to discover a passion for coaching pageant competitors.
The systems and tools she uses to stay grounded while juggling coaching, performing, and content creation.
Why doing it scared is part of the creative process—and how she reframed those fears.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Coaching: www.pageantprepbylandry.com
Instagram & TikTok: @pageantprepbylandry
Landry's Personal Instagram

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

S1 E16: From $5 Gigs to Full-Time Income: Fiverr 101 with Pro Seller Carissa Ferguson

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:45:59 +0000

In this episode, Emma Claire flips the script and puts co-host Carissa in the hot seat to break down how she built a thriving freelance business on Fiverr. From voiceover gigs to UGC TikTok content and more, Carissa has delivered over 1,000 five-star orders through the platform and she’s here to share how Fiverr works, how to stand out, and how it’s supported her creative career along the way.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

What Fiverr actually is and why Carissa chose it as her launchpad into freelancing.
How she went started from ground zero and turned her side hustle into a full time income.
Tips for writing standout gig descriptions, choosing pricing, and working the algorithm.
How she balances Fiverr work with her acting schedule and avoids burnout.
The pros, cons, and biggest lessons learned from growing her business online

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Carissa's Fiverr Profile
Fiverr Reddit Thread
Fiverr Forum
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

S1 E15: From Bartender To Business Owner With Julia Damatin

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:45:05 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire sit down with actor, CrossFit coach, and founder of Julia Jean Media, Julia Damatin, to talk about what it really looks like to shift from a draining survival job to thriving on your own terms. Julia shares how she went from bartending to building a full-time social media business with little experience, how her mindset around freedom and flexibility has changed, and why it’s actually cool to care deeply about your work (and less about what other people think).

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How Julia built a social media marketing business from the ground up with no formal background.
Why transitioning from bartending to business ownership gave her more flexibility in her acting career.
How fitness, discipline, and the “Actors Are Athletes” philosophy support her business and creative work.
The mindset shift and resources that helped her start to achieve her goals,

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Julia’s Media Company: Julia Jean Media
Fitness & Mindset: @actorsareathletes
Personal IG: @juliadamatin
Website: www.juliajeanmedia.com
Eli Rallo's TikTok
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

S1 E14: Saving With Strategy: Emergency Funds, Sinking Funds & More

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 14:20:41 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire break down how to actually save as a creative & on an inconsistent income. They talk about the difference between emergency funds and sinking funds, how to avoid panic when unexpected costs pop up, and why having a savings plan gives you more freedom to say yes to your creative goals.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why saving money isn't just about putting all of your spare change in one ambiguous pot.
The difference between emergency funds and sinking funds (and why you need both).
How to use “buckets” to stay organized and reduce guilt when it’s time to spend.
How much to save, where to keep it, and how to build the habit even with variable income.
Creative ways to reduce financial stress and give future-you some breathing room.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)
Our FREE Budgeting Template
Our FREE Resource: 5 Things Creatives Can Do Today To Improve Your Financial Future
Book Rec: I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Ep 13: Shoot Your Shot: Scaling A Photography Business while Dancing Professionally with Katy Weske

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:45:24 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire chat with dancer, choreographer, and photographer Katy Weske about how she turned a creative side hustle into a thriving photography business while navigating her college dance program & then performing professionally. From shooting headshots between contracts to managing a national client base, Katy shares what it takes to build a business that works with your artistry, not against it.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Katy's background & how she accidentally stumbled across photography.
The early steps she took to turn her photography hobby into a legit business.
What it’s really like to scale a service-based business while still choreographing and performing.
The systems and tools that keep her organized across roles.
How her business has given her more creative freedom to pursue her passion of dance.
Advice for artists who want to start a side hustle but don’t know where to begin.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Katy’s photography: @katyweske.photography
Katy's choregraphy: @katyweske.choreo
Personal: @katy.weske
Website: www.katyweskephotography.com

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Ep 12: Why Business Skills Are Just As Important As Creative Talent

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire discuss how and why they stopped thinking of their creative work as just art and started treating it like a brand or a business. They get real about why knowing your worth matters and how business skills like marketing and negotiation are key to turning your dreams into something sustainable.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Making the mindset shift from artist to entrepreneur
How key business skills like marketing, negotiation, and time management show up in creative work.
Why building systems and treating yourself like a CEO will help you build a sustainable career.
The tools and practices they use to balance art and business.
The importance of knowing your worth and how to advocate for yourself.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Google Calendar
Notion
Actor Aesthetic Podcast
The Actor's Life by Jenna Fisher
Download our FREE Budget Template designed for creatives
Download our FREE pdf resource for 5 things creative can do TODAY to improve their financial futures.

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Thanks for listening - see you next week!

Ep 11: Balancing Creative & Corporate with Charlotte B. Um

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire chat with NYC-based actor and influencer marketing manager Charlotte Um about how she navigates the challenging balance between her corporate career and her creative goals. From managing auditions in the midst of work deadlines to staying open to whatever may come her way, this conversation is an honest look at what it really takes to pursue two paths at once

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How difficult it is to fold up the self-tape blue/green screen (if you know, you know).
What life looked like post-grad for Charlotte and why she didn’t head straight to NYC.
How she balanced pursuing a fine arts degree at the University of Michigan with working advertising, marketing, and other business-related jobs during the summers.
The real challenges of managing a full-time job while also pursuing acting in NYC and how she makes it work.
Why she’s open about not having a perfectly clear life plan and how she’s learned to find comfort in that.
The unexpected ways her acting skills have helped her thrive in the corporate world & advice for those wanting to jump in to similar positions.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Charlotte recommends finding a non-theatre community!
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Ep 10: Budgeting 102 - Budgeting On A Fluctuating Income

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode, Emma Claire and Carissa dive into the challenges and solutions for budgeting when your income is unpredictable. Whether you’re a freelancer, artist, or creative professional juggling side gigs and fluctuating paychecks, this episode offers practical strategies to keep your finances steady—even when your income isn’t.

From baseline budgeting to income buffer accounts, they break down a budgeting system that works with your creative lifestyle and share real-life lessons from their own experiences navigating freelance finances. Check out their FREE budget template in addition to this episode to get your budgeting back on track!

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why inconsistent income makes traditional budgeting strategies difficult
The risks of spending money that hasn’t actually hit your account yet
How to identify your “bare minimum baseline” income
The four-tier system for prioritizing expenses and savings
The importance of an income buffer savings account (and how to use it)
Tools and mindset shifts to create stability during lean months
A quick recap of the steps to take control of your fluctuating income

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Download our FREE Budget Template designed for creatives
Listen to Ep 8: Budgeting 101 - The Blueprint For Your Bank Account
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @show.biz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Like the show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 9: The Practical Business That Let Me Quit My Job (& Keep Acting) Ft. Rosemary Gilmore

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:45:00 +0000

Episode 9: The Practical Business That Let Me Quit My Job (& Keep Acting) Ft. Rosemary Gilmore

In this episode, Carissa and Emma Claire chat with ATL-based film actor and entrepreneur Rosemary Gilmore about how launching a pool service business in Atlanta alongside her husband gave her the freedom and flexibility to pursue film acting on her own terms. From taking the leap into entrepreneurship with zero experience to navigating creative life with a business owner mindset, this episode is full of grounded advice for any creative looking to jump into the pool of starting their own business.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

How Rosemary transitioned from juggling multiple draining jobs to launching a business with her husband.
The journey of growing Heat My Pool from a side hustle into a full-time income stream.
Why choosing a business outside the creative industry actually gave her more freedom within it.
How she balances acting, producing, and entrepreneurship without burning out.
Practical advice for creatives who want to build a sustainable business without giving up on their artistic goals

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Rosemary's pool equipment service business (based in Atlanta, GA): Heat My Pool
Rosemary’s production company: Good Ghost Productions
Free Book Recommendation: New Thoughts For Actors by Jack Plotnick
Book Recommendation: The Artist's Way
Follow Rosemary!
Instagram
TikTok

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @showbiz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Like the show? Please subscribe, rate & review as it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 8: Budgeting 101 - The Blueprint For Your Bank Account

Wed, 14 May 2025 11:45:00 +0000

Carissa and Emma Claire have the budget chat that your BFA program forgot! They break down the basics of building a budget that actually works for your creative lifestyle. From understanding where your money is going to using flexible tools that fit your rhythm, this is your starter pack for taking control of your finances without sacrificing joy or freedom.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

Why budgeting gives you more freedom, not less
How to define a budget that reflects your reality
The 4-part budget breakdown: Needs, Wants, Savings, Debt
Tools and templates for tracking your money
Common budgeting mistakes to avoid
Real-world advice tailored for creatives and freelancers

Whether you’re living gig-to-gig or navigating multiple side hustles, this episode is your no-judgment intro to making your money work for you.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero — a mindset-forward guide to shifting how you view money and wealth.
TikTok Creators for Budgeting Inspiration:
Michela Allocca (@breakyourbudget)
Erin Confortini (@itserinconfortini)
McKenzie Mack (@mckenzie.mack)
Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)
Download our FREE PDF Resource for 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve their Financial Futures

CONNECT WITH US:

Instagram: @showbiz.pod
TikTok: @show.biz.pod
Website: www.showbizpod.com

Like the show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep. 7: Casting, Styling, and Animal Handling—Oh My! How To Build A Career On-Stage and Off with Lara Hayhurst

Wed, 07 May 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode of Show Biz Pod, Emma Claire and Carissa sit down with Lara Hayhurst— actor, casting director, Bill Berloni trained animal handler, personal stylist, and Pace University graduate. She shares how she’s built a sustainable and ever-evolving career by embracing every opportunity on and off the stage.

Lara opens up about the power of versatility, the overlap between performing and her day jobs, and how saying “yes” (and showing up) kept her working on-stage and off.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

How Lara built a multi-hyphenate career & the various side hustles that have kept her sustained.
How she made the transition from the stage to behind the casting table.
Her experience as an animal handler trained by Bill Berloni.
How casting jobs have changed her perspective as an actor.
Actionable advice for creatives interested in various side hustles (animal handling, casting, styling, etc.)

FOLLOW LARA:

Larahayhurst.com
Instagram: @larahayhurst

LINKS & RESOURCES:

The Four Agreements
Broadway Tails by Bill Berloni
Download our FREE resource: 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve Their Financial Future
Open a high-yield savings account with Ally
Start investing with Acorns

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com

Instagram: @showbiz.pod

TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists and creatives find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 6: Stop Relying on One Check: Multiple Streams of Income 101

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode of Show Biz Pod, Emma Claire and Carissa break down the seven major types of income streams—what they are, how they work, and why diversifying your income is essential for artists. From rental income to capital gains, this episode will help you better understand the full landscape of how creatives should be diversifying their income.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

The 7 key types of income streams every creative should know.
The difference between active vs. passive income.
Personal examples of each income stream.
How to identify what income type fits your current skills and goals.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus: (referral link)
Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free: (referral link)
Download our FREE PDF Resource for 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve their Financial Futures

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com
Follow Show Biz Pod on Instagram: @showbiz.pod
Follow Show Biz Pod on TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the Show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 5: Crypto, Country, and Creative Control: Sammy Arriaga on Music NFTs

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:40:00 +0000

In this episode of Show Biz Pod, Emma Claire and Carissa sit down with country Latino artist and NFT trailblazer Sammy Arriaga. Originally from Miami and now based in Nashville, Sammy shares his journey as a first-generation Cuban-American building a music career while also successfully building a steady stream of income for himself via the world of crypto and music NFTs.

Whether you’re curious about NFT’s as a potential side hustle or just want to learn how artists are taking ownership and profiting off of their work in new ways, this conversation breaks it all down.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Sammy’s background as a musician and how he developed his sound
A beginner-friendly explanation of music NFTs and how they work
How NFTs became a real business model and source of income
The challenges of balancing music, business, and a digital marketplace
Misconceptions about crypto and pushback from the traditional music industry
Advice for artists and creatives interested in exploring web3
What’s next for Sammy, including new music and NFT drops

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Sammy Arriaga Official Website

Listen to his new single - “Moves Like Mexico”

Explore Sammy’s NFTs

Follow Sammy on Instagram: @sammyarriaga

OpenSea Digital Crypto Marketplace

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com

Like the show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 4: Post Tax Clarity For Artists - Smart Steps To Prepare You For Next Tax Season

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:45:00 +0000

In this episode of Show Biz Pod, Emma Claire and Carissa get real about taxes. They chat about a several simple steps artists can take today to make next year's tax season way less stressful. Whether you’re still recovering from tax season or already thinking ahead, these tips will help you stay proactive, organized, and financially empowered year-round.

Perfect for freelancers, performers, and self-employed creatives who want more control and clarity when it comes to money and taxes.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Track Your Expenses & Find Every Avenue For Write-offs.
Withhold Taxes From Your Own Paycheck.
Consider Quarterly Tax Payments.
Consider an LLC or business bank account.
Hire Help If You Can.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Start a high-yield savings account with Ally & get $100

IRS Underpayment of Estimated Tax Penalty Information

IRS Self-Employed Revenue Tax Center Information

30 Tax Write-offs for Actors

Cookie Finance Free Blog with Content Creator Financial Resources

Keeper App for Freelance Tax Tracking

Download our FREE PDF: 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve Their Financial Futures

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com

Follow on Instagram: @showbiz.pod

Follow on TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the show? Subscribe, rate & review—it helps other artists and creatives find us.

See you next Wednesday!

Ep3: 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve their Financial Futures

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:59:00 +0000

In this episode of Show Bid Pod, Emma Claire and Carissa dive into five simple yet impactful steps that creatives can take right now to set themselves up for a stronger financial future. Whether you’re a performer, freelancer, or self-employed creative, these actionable tips will help you build financial stability and start making your money work for you—today.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Opening a high-yield savings account (HYSA) vs. traditional savings accounts
The benefits of a Roth IRA for retirement savings
Using apps like Acorns to start investing with spare change
Automating savings and investments to ensure consistent contributions
Tracking expenses with tools like Rocket Money or Google Sheets
Encouraging listeners to take action on one of the financial steps discussed

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Open an HYSA with Ally and receive a $100 bonus (referral link): https://www.ally.com/referral?code=8F3X5T4V7K

Sign up for Acorns and get $5 invested for free (referral link): https://www.acorns.com/share/?first_name=Emma&shareable_code=85JRKNU

Download our FREE PDF Resource for 5 Things Creatives Can Do TODAY to Improve their Financial Futures

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com
Follow Show Biz Pod on Instagram: @showbiz.pod
Follow Show Biz Pod on TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the Show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 2: Multi-Hyphenate with Multi-Businesses ft. Tara Lynn Steele

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:58:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Tara Lynn Steele to talk about what it really looks like to build multiple businesses as a creative — not as a backup plan, but as an intentional, sustainable part of her artistic career.

Tara Lynn walks us through her journey from performer and movement coach to multi-business owner, sharing how her creative skills have shaped the way she approaches entrepreneurship and how building multiple streams of income has actually supported her artistry, not sidelined it.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Building a multi-hyphenate career on purpose, not by accident
How Tara Lynn balances her dream job and her day jobs
The reality of starting and managing multiple businesses (and multiple to-do lists)
How creative skills directly translate to entrepreneurship
Managing variable income + financial mindset shifts for creatives
Why entrepreneurship gives artists more freedom, not less

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Tara Lynn recommended the following:

Reach Out by Molly Beck

Start With Why by Simon Sinnick

Pete Shepherd: https://humanperiscope.com/

Jen Waldman Studios: https://www.jws.community/

Innovate Voice Studios - The Badassery: https://www.innovativevoicestudio.com/badassery

CONNECT WITH TARA LYNN:

Follow Tara Lynn on Instagram: @taralynnsteele

Visit Tara Lynn’s Website: www.taralynnstele.com

Learn more about Steele Mobility: https://www.steelemobility.com/

Explore Unleash Your Superpowers: https://www.unleashyoursuperpowers.com/

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com
Follow Show Biz Pod on Instagram: @showbiz.pod
Follow Show Biz Pod on TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the Show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Ep 1: The Day Job Funds The Dream Job

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:57:00 +0000

In this debut episode of Showbiz Pod, hosts Carissa and Emma Claire dive into how their day jobs fuel their artistic careers. Carissa, a New York-based musical theater performer and freelance UGC creator/voiceover artist, shares how she turned a 14-year-old side hustle into a thriving business. Emma Claire, a New York film actor with a corporate strategy consulting career, talks about balancing her nine-to-five with acting in the city. Together, they discuss the importance of side hustles, entrepreneurship, and the financial strategy behind pursuing creative passions without relying on the "starving artist" mentality.

WE TALKED ABOUT:

Carissa and Emma Claire’s backgrounds in creative careers and business
The importance of having a day job that funds your creative pursuits
The flexibility and challenges of freelancing for creatives
Freelancing as a voice-over artist and UGC creator
Balancing a corporate job with acting and creative commitments
The overlap between corporate and creative roles
Strategies for balancing time between corporate work, freelance projects, and personal creative goals

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

LinkedIn for professional networking and showcasing work: www.linkedin.com

Carissa’s favorite UGC educational creator: https://www.tranugc.com/

CONNECT WITH SHOW BIZ POD:

Visit our Website: www.showbizpod.com
Follow Show Biz Pod on Instagram: @showbiz.pod
Follow Show Biz Pod on TikTok: @show.biz.pod

Like the Show? Subscribe, rate & review — it helps other artists & entrepreneurs find us!

See you next Wednesday!

Show Biz Pod Trailer!

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:05:00 +0000

Hi everyone! Welcome to Show Biz Pod - a weekly show that tackles creative careers, side hustles, entrepreneurship, personal finance, and how artists can and should strategically combine all four. For too long actors have been told to accept the starving artist mentality. Well, not anymore!

If you're an actor, artist or creative looking to take control of your career and your finances, we've got you covered. Tune in every Wednesday and join us as we build day jobs that fund our dream jobs. XO, Carissa & Emma Claire