One Broke Actress

We are bringing back Rus Garofalo of Brass Taxes (where I personally do my taxes). He was a hit last year, and he’s back with even more tips to help us all make this terrifying time just a little bit less scary. When it comes to taxes for creative professionals, there are so many nuisances that others don’t have to deal with because it is such a volatile industry. We go into what the difficulties that come from the tax system not being designed for those in the gig economy, and answer commonly asked tax-related questions such as quarterly taxes, business write-offs, and when it's beneficial to establish an LLC or S Corp. We also talk about how we each need to find what works for us when it comes to our money, and that includes making informed decisions. So if you’re stressed right now, sit back, listen in, and get your notebook ready to approach taxes from a place of empowerment. (PSST: Be sure to listen to the end for a special OBA discount!!)

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Introducing Rus

02:40 — Understanding Taxes for Creatives

03:15— Changes in Tax Season from 2023 to 2024

04:50 — Preparing for Income Fluctuations

07:48 — Understanding W2 and 1099 Work

10:46 — The Importance of Business Expenses

17:20 — Understanding Estimated Tax Payments

28:09 — Write-offs for Actors

30:26 — Understanding Your Role as a Creative Professional

32:43 — Navigating the Gray Areas of Business Expenses

33:17 — Regular Record Keeping

41:09 — International Taxes

43:33 — Deciding When to Start an LLC or S Corp

45:46 — The Reality of Setting Up a Business Entity

48:28 — Making Informed Decisions that Work for YOU

52:21 — Final Thoughts on Taxes for Creative Professionals

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★  Listen to Rus’s first episode: Taxes for Actors 101

★ NYFA: Taking Care of the Future You: Retirement for Creatives with Brass Taxes

★ Email [email protected] to get the free expense tracker and Freelancer PDF!

★ Brass Taxes FAQ “I was thinking about forming an LLC or Corporation. Is that a good idea?”

★ Brass Taxes FAQ “How do I get started”

★ Brass Taxes FAQ “Your Brass Taxes Account”

★ Brass Taxes FAQ

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

In this riveting reflecting on the SAG-AFTRA Strike, Paramount Strike Captains Brittney Baxter, Iris Liu, and Brendan A. Bradley share their firsthand experiences from the picket lines. They discuss their motivations for joining the strike, their unique perspectives on union participation, the challenges they faced, and the transformation they underwent through the experience. Iris spills about how the strike was not just a professional task but a personal journey towards gaining control over her career, while Brendan elaborates about the importance of speaking up for change in the union. Brittany stresses how we all need to question and challenge our union while aiming for future contracts. The captains also share their perspective on how pre-union members should see their fight in the strike too. Finally, they each show gratitude to everyone who supported them and ensured they could still pursue their passion - acting. This candid conversation really warmed my heart, and I think it is going to provide a unique insight into the world of actors, strikes, and the power of standing together for change.

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Introduction and Guest Introductions

02:31 — Reflections on the Paramount Strike

03:21 — Iris's Journey into the Union and the Strike

06:01 — Brendan's Experience and Involvement in the Strike

09:35 — Brittney's Entry into the Strike

11:10 — Reflections on the Strike, Union Participation, and the Impact on Personal Lives

13:49 — Challenges and Triumphs during the Strike

14:53 — The Aftermath of the Strike

17:20 — Lessons Learned and Future Directions

30:38 — Commitment to the New Technology Committee

31:28 — The Struggles of Volunteering and Balancing Work

33:09 — AD: The Membership’s Headshot Class: https://themembership.co/the-headshot-class 

35:34 — Respecting Union Volunteers & Participating in the Union

36:38 — The Challenges of Balancing Union Work and Acting

37:51 — We Are Our Union

39:01 — The Power of Sharing Experiences & Filing Claims

40:42 — Support Systems

44:55 — Advice for Non-Union Members

49:50 — What to Look Forward to from Iris, Brendan, and Brittney

56:00 — Wrapping Up

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ Brendan’s IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1731701/

★ Brendan’s Website: https://www.brendanabradley.com

★ Brendan’s IG @brendanabradley https://www.instagram.com/brendanabradley/

★ Brittney’s IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13093522/

★ Brittney’s Website: https://brittneybaxter.com

★ Brittney’s IG @brittney_baxter https://www.instagram.com/_brittney_baxter_/

★ Iris’ IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10962783/

★ Iris’ Website: https://www.irisliu.com

★ Iris’ IG @irisliuofficial https://www.instagram.com/irisliuofficial/

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

In our final installment of the Headshot miniseries, I’m welcoming back someone who I have shot with several times over the last decade: Leah Huebner. If you’ve looked through IMDb or iSpotTV, you’ve seen a Huener Headshot. Leah, a former actress turned professional portraitist, offers her unique perspective on the art and business of actor headshots. She goes into her process for selecting appropriate headshot clothes, setting the right mood, and choosing backdrops based on the genre or the feel of the show an actor is targeting. She also touches on the importance of authenticity and realistic portrayal of oneself in headshots, and how she wants to get all of her clients to show who they are in their sessions. Expect invaluable tips on time management, preparation, character representation, and maintaining vulnerability during headshot sessions, as well as an interesting conversation on gender representation in headshot photography that will help all of us break the binary.

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Introduction and Welcome

01:14 — Introducing Leah Huebner: The Headshot Photographer

02:55 — Leah's Journey and Expertise

04:27 — Understanding Headshot and Branding Sessions

08:05 — How Many Looks Do You Need in a Headshot Session?

10:34 — Navigating Opinions on Headshots

12:58 — Leah Huebner's Personal Journey and Self-Understanding

18:00 — AD: The Membership’s Headshot Class

20:28— The Importance of Authenticity in Headshots

20:37 — Common Mistakes in Headshot Sessions

22:48 — Dealing with Stress During the Shoot

24:30 — Leah’s Pet Peeves

25:46 — Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Clothing

29:07 — The Process of Shooting with the Photographer

32:16 — The Role of Guidance and Direction in a Shoot

34:45 — Final Thoughts and Advice for Actors

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ Listen to One Broke Actress “Leah Huebner {Headshots and Beyond}”

★ Leah’s Website

★ Leah’s IG @huebnerheadshots

★ Leah’s Personal IG @huebyzu

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

We’re back with another installment in our headshot photographer miniseries with Atlanta based photographer Chase Anderson. Recommended by our resident Atlanta Queen Gabrielle Byndloss, Chase is a renowned photographer who has used his acting experience to enhance his clients session and get shots that work. In this episode we get into Chase's journey from working as a server to being a notable photographer, why being an actor influences his work as a headshot photographer, and his unique approach to his photoshoot sessions. We also talk about 'market-specific' headshots, the trend towards editorial-style photography, and the fact that there is no absolute right or wrong in creating a successful headshot. His philosophy of enthusiasm, spontaneity, collaboration, and being yourself during a headshot session will, without a doubt, transform your next session.

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Introduction and Welcome

00:40 — Meet the Guest: Chase Anderson

01:06 — The Actor-Photographer Connection

01:20 — Chase's Journey into Photography

03:14 — The Impact of Photography on Acting

04:01 — The Art of Headshot Photography

05:50 — Breaking the Rules of Photography

11:20 — The Headshot Session Process

13:10 — AD: The Membership’s Headshot Class: https://themembership.co/the-headshot-class

15:48 — The Evolution of Headshots

23:14 — The Atlanta Market and Headshots

22:26 — The Actor's Attitude in Headshot Sessions

27:34 — Conclusion & How to work with Chase

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ Chase’s Website

★ Chase’s IMDb

★ Chase’s Personal IG @_chaseanderson

★ Chase’s Headshot Photography IG @chaseandersonphoto

★ Chase’s Corporate Photography IG @chaseandersonheadshots

★ Watch Headshots According to LA Photographer Joanna DeGeneres

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

Headshots. Every actor needs them. We are constantly wanting to improve each time we take them. And the stress never ends. So, what do we do to approach headshots to successful as possible? I’m going to some of the best in the game to see what they have to say. First up, Joanna DeGeneres. She gives us a detailed guide to mastering actors' headshots. I unearthed some of the common struggles actors face with headshots in preparation for The Headshot Class from Gabrielle and I with The Membership. This conversation provides vital insights into what creates a good headshot, including understanding industry demands, showing range, dealing with wardrobe, best practices for hair and makeup, and how to avoid common mistakes. Listen in for top-notch advice on how to stand out in a competitive industry.

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Intro

02:53 — Welcoming Joanna

03:17 — The Difference Between Headshots, Editorials, and Branding

04:13 — Headshot Session Looks

06:40 — Wardrobe

09:05 — Navigating Headshot Opinions

11:31 — Showing “Range”

12:57 — Maximizing Time During a Photoshoot

17:27 — Getting More Comfortable Being Photographed

19:20 — Cosmetic Surgery & Headshot Mistakes

24:18 — AD: The Membership’s Headshot Class: https://themembership.co/the-headshot-class

26:45— What NOT To Do During a Session

32:03 — Headshot Myths

35:46 — Joanna’s Pet Peeves

40:32 — Booking a Session Step-by-Step with Joanna

43:45 — My Session with Joanna

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ Joanna’s Website: https://www.joannadegeneres.com/

★ Joanna’s IG @joannadegeneres: https://www.instagram.com/joannadegeneres/

★ Kate Hollinshead Hair & Makeup Artist: https://www.katehollinshead.com/

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

I’m sitting down with an incredible casting director and personal life coach, Elizabeth Boykewich. Elizabeth has an impressive resume, having worked on shows like 'Good Trouble', 'Pretty Little Liars', and 'The Bold Type'. She provides an in-depth look at the casting process, explaining her role as an executive casting director and how she selects people not just for their acting skills but also for their off-screen attributes. She discusses looking at actors holistically, her career transitions, the nuances of the casting process, and shares insightful advice and stories about the inner workings of casting. From identifying potential in green actors, to managing professionalism on set, Elizabeth offers valuable insights into making it in the acting industry that all of us need to know.

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Introduction

02:51 — Where Elizabeth is Today

04:04 — Elizabeth's Journey in the Casting Industry

09:09 — Casting Associate vs. Casting Assistant

12:51 — How to Become an Executive Casting Director

16:11 — Casting Director Meeting Breakdown

22:20 — AD: Go to oliveandjune.com/BROKE20 for 20% off Your Mani System!

25:00 — Working with & Testing Actors

32:09 — Self-Tapes

40:25 — Recognizing Who Will Go the Distance

43:09 — Professionalism in Actors

52:41 — Becoming a Life Coach

55:33 — AD: The Membership’s Doors are OPEN!

58:28 — Centering Our “Why”

1:00:35 — Evaluate Your Mentors & Do Your Research

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ The EB Co

★ Elizabeth's IMDb

★  Elizabeth’s IG @the.eb.co

★ Watch “Working Actor Life: Allergies, Working from Home, and Side Hustles”

★ Listen to “WTF with Marc Maron Episode 1488 - Fisher Stevens”

★ Listen to The EB Co.: OFF BOOK Podcast!

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

Happy New Year!! Gabrielle and I are right back into the swing of things and dive into a candid conversation about the ups and downs of being both actors and entrepreneurs. I just moved, and so it truly feels like such a fresh start. With each fresh start though, it’s so important to set goals and stay on target so we touch on why goals are so tough, the challenges of navigating the acting industry, and why we all need to approach our headshots with a strategic focus. Gabrielle shares her method of manifestation while I get into my love of quarterly SMART goals. We also get honest about the privilege that our social media followings have awarded us, and how we are able to do so much because of the financial freedom that all of you listening in have given us. Be sure to stay tuned for our Headshot Class coming this year!!

Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!

00:00 — Intro & My Move

02:30 — Social Media & The Actor

05:09 — An Actor’s Holiday

06:04 — Sam’s Time Off

09:46 — Social Media

11:49 — Stillness

17:29 — Woo-woo Your Year

20:05 — Sam’s SMART Goals

23:58 — The Membership Manifestation

29:45 — Let’s Talk Headshots

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron

★ Follow Gabrielle on IG @GabrielleByndloss

★ Castability

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

▶▶ This is a Replay Episode that I think is still super useful. Happy Holidays, everyone!

This was going to be a podcast episode just for the Patreon, but I thought that this topic was something that we could all use to set up our 2023 rather than feeling like it has to be "our year" in a career that will take a lifetime. To me, setting ourselves up for a successful year means making SMART goals. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely quarterly goals for ourselves that are fully within our control. Even though we can't control booking this costar or that guest star, we can control the habits and systems we use to prepare ourselves for our next role or help us be healthier, happier humans. Take out a pencil and follow along as I give you my top six tips to what I do to make my own SMART goals.

00:00 — Intro

05:40 — Why This Is Not "Your Year"

08:47 — Tip #1

09:33 — Tip #2

12:09 — Tip #3

17:25 — Tip #4

22:53 — Tip #5

26:14 — Tip #6

28:06 — Wrap-Up

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ The Membership

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

▶▶ This is a Replay Episode that I think is still super useful. Happy Holidays, everyone!

I wanted to make a podcast and YouTube video all about what actors actually do over the holidays. I know we always want to be doing something for our careers and using every minute of our time towards the next thing, but rest is a crucial part of being a creative person. But most of the productions around Los Angeles and the country shut down for these last few weeks as casting directors, agents, managers, directors, writers, crew, and all of the other excellent people who work on the shows and films we love go home to spend time with their families. So rather than feeling guilty about this past year, allow yourself time to breathe. If you don't know where to even start, I've got you covered.

Watch the YouTube Video Here!

00:00 — Intro

03:47 — Actors During the Holidays

07:42 — Tip #1

11:36 — Tip #2

14:12 — Tip #3

19:46 — Tip #4

22:36 — Tip #5

27:40 — Takeaways for the Day-to-DAy

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ The Membership

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!

▶▶ This is a Replay Episode that I think is still super useful. Happy Holidays, everyone!

I tackle a common challenge faced by actors: comparison and jealousy. With years of experience and personal growth, I touch on how to navigate these emotions when they come up for us, especially because they can really intense during the holidays. Drawing from years of therapy and self-help books, I offer practical strategies that have helped me develop a healthy mindset. Whether you're a seasoned actor or just starting out, my advice is all about the tools that I have used to overcome comparison and embrace my own unique journey. I hope you find value in these tools too!

00:00 — Intro & Holiday Break

03:00 — Comparing Myself to My Peers

9:19 — Journaling

13:12 — Booking

15:55 — Celebrating Other Actors

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

★ Nicole Travolta on IG @nicoletravolta

★ The Membership

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Want more? Join The Membership & Check out Patreon for bonus episodes!

And don’t miss all the content on IG and as always at, OneBrokeActress.com

And if you're needing some personalized help from Sam, you can schedule a chat with her right here.

Don't forget to join the mailing list here!