This week, Kenya welcomes actor, writer, and podcast host Andrew Benjamin on the show.  Andrew shares how he stumbled into jiu-jitsu through a health and weight loss journey, opening up a new passion in his life for Japanese MMA. He reflects on his early start in acting, highlighting the serendipitous nature of how he entered the acting world despite the challenges of being a college grad. He and Kenya also chat about the writer’s strike and the domino effect it has upon the whole industry, along with how to stay engaged and connected with your soul’s purpose during the downtime. Andrew also shares his pointed take on AI’s impact on the entertainment industry.

 

Also Talked About:

 

• While working as a background actor, Andrew stays productive, using his time in holding to write for other creative endeavors. He’s not quite a “grumpy veteran” yet, but is more discerning about who he talks to during his free time. 

• Andrew’s first movie was “21”, a film about MIT students that took Vegas casinos for millions. He got called back to be a stand in, and has been working consistently ever since. 

• The domino impact of the Writer’s Strike and how it affects the industry, including acting, casting, and even vendors.

• If the rules for the strike aren’t clear, you aren’t alone. This is a confusing time but it’s important that we do something now rather than waiting years down the road. 

• Andrew candidly talks about how the strike has personally affected him and shares some anecdotal insights into the rules of engagement in Hollywood about continuing to write/produce while on strike. 

• Everyone is going through their own challenges, so be kind and try to have grace as you go about your day. 

• It’s not all red carpet moments in acting, and Andrew reminds actors to recognize the professionalism and dedication required in the field.

 

Say Hi To Us: 

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Source & Cast

Kenya: IG 

 

Guest:

Andrew: IG | We are Risin Podcast | MMA Sucka