In this Finance for Freelance edition of The Actor’s Instrument Podcast, Hassiem Muhammad and Andrea Laing unpack the realities of money management for creatives. 💸 From budgeting and investing to building an emergency fund, they share honest stories, smart strategies, and lessons learned the hard way. This ongoing series dives into the money side of the creative grind — how artists, freelancers, and actors can take control of their finances and thrive in an unpredictable industry. They also play a round of “Would You Rather?” — tackling tough money questions like whether to invest in a publicist or personal growth — and share the habits that have helped them build stability while pursuing their dreams. Budget Spreadsheet Discussed In This Episode https://tinyurl.com/mvmbuxm8 💡 Subscribe for weekly conversations that help you sharpen your craft, strengthen your mindset, and sustain your career in the long game of acting. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Actor’s Instrument for more tools, stories, and inspiration for the long game of acting. 🎧 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com

🎭 Can you really make it as an actor outside NYC or LA? Hassiem Muhammad talks with Twin Cities performer Anna Hashizume about thriving in Minneapolis–St. Paul’s vibrant theater scene, balancing opera and musical theater, and building a sustainable creative life. Anna opens up about her journey from opera to musical theater, the importance of inclusion and representation on stage, and what it truly takes to build a sustainable creative life in a smaller market. From performing at the Guthrie Theater and Minnesota Opera to booking national commercial work for Target and Best Buy, Anna proves you can live off your art with persistence, community, and an entrepreneurial mindset. 💡 Subscribe for weekly conversations that help you sharpen your craft, strengthen your mindset, and sustain your career in the long game of acting. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Actor’s Instrument for more tools, stories, and inspiration for the long game of acting. 🎧 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #ActingPodcast #HassiemMuhammad #AnnaHashizume

What does it take to build a thriving acting career outside of New York or L.A.? In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with award-winning stage actor Cody Nickell to explore life and work in the D.C.–Maryland–Virginia (DMV) theater scene. Cody shares his journey from New York auditions to finding consistency and creative fulfillment in D.C.’s growing regional market.  With over 20 years in the business and five Helen Hayes Award nominations, Cody opens up about why the DMV is a hidden gem for professional actors, and lessons from working with theaters like Woolly Mammoth, Round House, and Folger Follow Cody on Instagram: @nickellshots 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Actor’s Instrument for more tools, stories, and inspiration for the long game of acting. 🎧 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice #ActingPodcast #WashingtonDC #DMV #FilmIndustry #CodyNickell

 This week on The Actor’s Instrument, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor, host, and model Andrea Laing to explore what it’s really like to build an acting career in Atlanta — the “Hollywood of the South.” Andrea shares her journey from broadcast journalism to performing in hit shows like Atlanta, Pain Hustlers, NCIS: New Orleans, and Yule Log. She opens up about navigating the entertainment industry as a first-generation American, finding the courage to pivot from a stable career to acting, and how Atlanta’s thriving film and TV scene offers unique opportunities (and challenges) for working performers. Follow Andrea on Instagram: @yourfavoriteandrea Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice #ActingPodcast #AtlantaActors #FilmIndustry #AndreaLaing

Actor Jeff Parker shares how he built a 35+ year career in Chicago theater, film, and TV—proving you don’t have to live in LA or NYC to succeed. From Goodman Theatre to network shows, Jeff reveals the realities of working actors in regional markets and why presence is the ultimate tool on stage and screen. Jeff shares his journey from Los Angeles to Chicago, what makes the Windy City one of the most exciting regional markets for actors, and how he’s built a sustainable career outside of Hollywood and New York. From working opposite Helen Hunt at the Goodman Theatre to starring in The Da Vinci Code and Lord of the Rings productions, Jeff’s story is packed with insights on staying present, navigating auditions, and finding opportunities across stage, TV, and film. Follow Jeff on Instagram: @jeffparkeractor Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice

In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument: Tools for the Long Game, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with Camila Cano-Flavia, a rising star of stage and screen. From Broadway productions like Network, Patriots, and the upcoming Punch, to appearances on hit shows including Law & Order: SVU, The Blacklist, Blue Bloods, and For Life, Camila shares the realities of building a sustainable career as an actor. 🎭 We dive deep into her journey from Rutgers to Broadway and beyond, lessons learned from working alongside Bryan Cranston in Network, and staying grounded and spiritually strong in an unpredictable industry Follow Camila on Instagram: @__lacami__ Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice

In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument: Tools for the Long Game, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor Callum Adams (FBI, City on a Hill, The Blacklist, BritBox’s I Jack Wright) for a candid conversation about building a sustainable acting career across continents. Callum shares his journey from growing up in Scotland and Vermont to training in London and working in both the U.S. and the U.K. He opens up about the realities of pay differences in British vs. American TV, navigating representation, and finding balance in a career full of uncertainty. The two also reflect on the importance of empathy in storytelling, the challenges of breaking through in theater and television, and what it really takes to play the long game in the entertainment industry. Follow Callum on Instagram: @callumnadams Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice

Broadway star Caro Daye Attayek joins host Hassiem Muhammad on The Actor’s Instrument to share her inspiring journey from Elon University to her Broadway debut in Mamma Mia! (Revival). In this episode, Caro opens up about life on national tours like Hairspray and Aladdin, her unique path as a swing and ensemble performer, and the lessons she’s learned about individuality, resilience, and trusting your gut in the theater industry. From booking jobs without an agent to balancing the challenges of touring life, Caro’s story is filled with practical insights and motivation for aspiring performers. Follow Caro on Instagram: @caro_daye Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice

In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument: Tools for the Long Game, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor Darius Jordan Lee (Dexter: Resurrection, The Last OG, Power Book II, Will Trent, Ain’t Too Proud on Broadway) to talk about his incredible journey from the stage to the screen. Darius opens up about his breakout year, landing his recurring role as Lance Thomas on Showtime’s Dexter: Resurrection, his guest appearance on Hulu’s Will Trent, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From navigating the highs and lows of the industry, to staying grounded during strikes, to building the right team of agents and managers—this conversation is packed with insights for any artist pursuing longevity in their career. Follow Darius on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusjordanlee/ Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #actoradvice #dariusjordanlee

Should you get an MFA in acting—or not? 🎭 Actor Devin Kessler (Godfather of Harlem, A24’s Crystal Lake) joins host Hassiem Muhammad on The Actor’s Instrument to talk about her path from UNC School of the Arts to NYU’s MFA program, and how grad school shaped her career. Devin opens up about the value of training, navigating auditions, and what it means to be an “artistic citizen.” If you’ve ever wondered whether grad school is worth it—or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the actor’s journey—this episode is full of insight and inspiration. Follow Devin on Instagram: @devinelisekessler Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips #HassiemMuhammad #devinkessler #mfa #actoradvice

In this episode, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with Jason Thinger of the Jim Carnahan Casting Office — the powerhouse behind Broadway hits like Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Merrily We Roll Along, Sunset Boulevard, Moulin Rouge, and more. Jason discusses winning back-to-back Tony Awards, how to avoid common pitfalls in musical theater auditions, insights into the rise of IP-driven theater, and the challenges and creativity behind revivals vs. new adaptations. Follow Jason Thinger on Instagram: @J.Thing Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #TheActorsInstrument #Broadway #TonyAwards #Casting #TheaterPodcast #ActorTips

What does it really take to be a successful producer in Hollywood? In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument, host Hassiem Mohammed sits down with studio film & TV producer Alec Chorches (FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, FBI: International) for a deep dive into the world of producing. From overseeing post-production on CBS’s hit FBI franchise to collaborating with directors, casting teams, and visual effects artists, Alec shares the challenges, solutions, and mindset it takes to deliver hundreds of hours of top-tier television. Alec shares the traits that make actors stand out on set, as well as the qualities the #1 actor on the call sheet should possess Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit actorsinstrument.com Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com #podcast #filmindustry #tvproducer #actorslife #fbi #AlecChorches #filmmaking #behindthescenes

Want to book more roles, grow your network, and work with top reps? Talent manager ChiChi Anyanwu shares insider tips on agents vs. managers, networking, and staying proactive so you can stand out in Broadway, film, and TV. In this episode, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with powerhouse talent manager ChiChi Anyanwu, founder of CHI Talent Management, whose clients have lit up Broadway (MJ the Musical, Hadestown, Wicked), film (Insidious: The Red Door), and TV (Daredevil: Born Again, The Equalizer). If you’re an actor looking to build lasting relationships, land auditions, and grow your career with intention, this conversation is packed with real, actionable advice. Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit actorsinstrument.com Inquiries: actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com  #ActorsInstrument #ActingCareer #TalentManager #Broadway #FilmAndTV #NetworkingForActors #EntertainmentIndustry

Welcome back to another season of The Actor’s Instrument. In the season premiere, host Hassiem Muhammad sits down with 2025 Tony Award winner Francis Jue (Yellow Face, Pacific Overtures, Thoroughly Modern Millie) for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation. Francis discusses his emotional Tony win, the importance of representation & honoring Asian American pioneers in theater, and vulnerability as a superpower on stage. Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit actorsinstrument.com Inquiries: contact@actorsinstrument.com #FrancisJue #TheActorsInstrument #Broadway #TonyAwards #ActorLife #RepresentationMatters #TheaterPodcast

We’re kicking off Season 4 with a huge announcement: The Actor’s Instrument has officially joined the Next Chapter Podcasts network! Next Chapter is a theater-centric podcast platform with over 10 million downloads — and they’re now the co-producers and distributors of this show! This new partnership will help us reach a wider audience and give me more time to focus on what matters most: creating high-quality, impactful content for you. In this minisode, I share: What this deal means for the future of the podcast Why this is more than a name “change” — it’s a long-term mission How you can help shape what’s next for the show And a big thank you to our listeners and new producing partners The show remains free, but with your support — shares, follows, feedback — we’ll continue to grow this platform into something truly special for artists navigating the long game. 📣 Let me know: What topics or guests do you want to hear from this season? 🙏 Special thanks to the team at Next Chapter Podcasts: Michael Goodfriend, Jeremiah Tittle, Adam Bernard, Peter Musto, and Alex Schaffert. Follow The Actor's Instrument on Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Follow Hassiem on Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit actorsinstrument.com Inquiries: contact@actorsinstrument.com

Before we launch into Season 4 with a brand-new interview and a major announcement (dropping next week!), we’re closing this chapter with one more look back at some of the most impactful insights ever shared on the show. This week’s compilation features 10 phenomenal performers, each offering a glimpse into the mindset, work ethic, and heart it takes to succeed in this industry. 🎭 Featuring: Stephen McKinley Henderson (Dune) – 1:11 Ana Yi Puig (Goosebumps) – 4:03 Jeorge Bennett Watson (The Wire) – 7:56 Luna Sofia Miranda (Anora) – 11:10 Matias De La Flor (Camelot on Broadway) – 12:52 Pepi Sonuga (The Six Triple Eight) – 15:33 Lana Young (The Blacklist) – 16:47 Josh Innerst (Audiobook Narrator) – 19:02 Kevin Kilner (Home Alone) – 20:56 Adrienne C. Moore (Juror #2) – 24:02 Whether you're tuning in for the first time or you've been with us since day one, this episode is packed with real talk, encouragement, and tools to level up your craft. 🎧 Timestamps included above if you'd like to skip around. 🎬 New season starts next week—don’t miss it.

As we gear up for some exciting changes to the show (announcement coming in just two weeks!), we’re continuing our anniversary celebration with another powerful compilation episode—this time focused on self-promotion and content creation. In this episode, we revisit standout moments from three creatives who’ve built major platforms by owning their voice online: 📱 Kalissa Persaud (Google Pixel Brand Partner) — [1:02–11:30] 🎭 DaMya Gurley (A Black Lady Sketch Show) — [11:31–20:46] 🎬 Ace Anderson (Godfather of Harlem) — [20:47–26:14] Together, these guests share insights on building authentic presence, navigating the algorithm without losing your artistry, and how content creation can open doors in the industry. Collectively, they’ve amassed over 1 million followers across social media — and in this episode, they break down how you can take steps toward the same. 📌 Skip to your favorite moment with the timestamps above — and stay tuned for what’s coming next.

What separates working actors from the rest? In this powerful compilation episode, we dive into the 10 key traits that consistently show up in the journeys of some of today’s most inspiring performers. Featuring candid clips and career gems from past interviews, you’ll hear directly from: Brandon Michael Hall (Poker Face) 1:09-4:22 Siddiq Saunderson (Wu-Tang: An American Saga) 4:23-5:37 Charlotte McKee (Terrifier 3) 5:38-8:49 Luis Quintero (Drama Desk Award Winner) 8:50-10:19 DaMya Gurley (A Black Lady Sketch Show) 10:20-13:24 Louis Cancelmi (The Penguin) 13:25-14:26 Jarrett Austin Brown (Smile 2) 14:27-16:33 Kylie Edwards (FBI) 16:34-18:27 Lizzy Brooks (Macbeth on Broadway) 18:28-20:44 Elijah Ahmad Lewis (Ain’t Too Proud) 20:45-23:33 From grit and humility to craft and community, these actors reveal what it really takes to thrive in this industry — and how you can cultivate the same qualities in your own career.

To celebrate two incredible years of The Actor’s Instrument, we’ve curated a special episode featuring the most insightful, inspiring, and actionable moments from five of our most popular casting director interviews. In this compilation, you'll hear wisdom from: Erica Hart (00:51-4:19) on navigating auditions with confidence Tiffany Little Canfield (4:20-11:05) on competition in the industry Erica Jensen (11:06-16:31) on building relationships with casting professionals Tara Rubin (16:32-25:41) on the value of open call auditions Alaine Alldaffer (25:42-30:04) on embracing your uniqueness as an artist Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, this episode is packed with timeless guidance every actor should hear.

We’re celebrating two years of The Actor’s Instrument with a very special anniversary episode—and this time, the script gets flipped. Acclaimed actor Lana Young (Bull, WandaVision) takes over the mic to interview our very own host, Hassiem Muhammad.In this raw and revealing conversation, Hassiem opens up about his journey from reenacting cartoons in a crowded South Carolina living room to becoming a multi-hyphenate artist in New York City. He reflects on the formative moments that shaped his career, including his time at a performing arts boarding school, getting rejected by Juilliard (and everything that came after), and how he rediscovered the confidence and rawness that first sparked his love of acting.From chasing dreams with nothing but a shoebox full of savings to earning a full ride to one of the top drama schools in the world, Hassiem shares the lessons, heartbreaks, and wins that have made him the artist he is today.Whether you’re new to the podcast or have been riding with us since day one, this anniversary special is a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the power of staying true to yourself.🎧 Press play and get to know the voice behind the mic like never before.