Why Branding Matters More Than Talent (At First) | Kayvon Esmaili

Burn the Bridge If You Have To | Arti Ishak on Changing the Industry

In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument: Tools for the Long Game, Hassiem Muhammad sits down with Arti Ishak—actor, director, writer, and producer—for a candid conversation about challenging the status quo in the entertainment industry. They explore toxic theater culture, the financial instability many actors face, and the importance of advocacy through initiatives like the Chicago Inclusion Project. Arti shares how their work is rooted in uplifting underrepresented voices, particularly Muslim creatives, while redefining success beyond traditional industry markers. This episode is a powerful reminder that building a purposeful career may require risk, resilience, and the willingness to disrupt expectations—even if it means burning bridges along the way. 🔗 Follow Arti Ishak Instagram: @artiishak 🎭 Follow The Actor’s Instrument Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast 🎬 Follow Hassiem Muhammad Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad 🎵 Theme Music: Elijah by Isaac Fox 🎙 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts 📩 actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com 🌐 https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument [https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument]

The Future of Actor Training with Krisha Marcano | Self-Tapes, Adaptability & Career Strategy

In this episode, Hassiem Muhammad sits down with Krisha Marcano, Dean of Theater at Boston Conservatory and former Broadway performer, to explore how actor training is evolving in today’s industry. They discuss the shift to self-tapes, the importance of adaptability, how actors can monetize their skills, and why entrepreneurship is becoming essential. Krisha also shares what she looks for in actors and why authentic storytelling remains the key to booking work. A must-listen for actors looking to build a sustainable, long-term career. 🔗 Follow Krisha Marcano Instagram: @krishamarcano 🎭 Follow The Actor’s Instrument Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast 🎬 Follow Hassiem Muhammad Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad 🎵 Theme Music: Elijah by Isaac Fox 🎙 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts 📩 actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com 🌐 https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument [https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument]

Building a Creative Lifestyle | Matias De La Flor

What does it actually take to build a sustainable life as an actor? Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor Matias De La Flor to explore how creatives can take ownership of their careers by building a holistic lifestyle—one that supports both their artistry and financial well-being. From mindset shifts to practical strategy, this episode offers a clear roadmap for actors who want long-term success beyond just booking roles. 🔗 Follow Matias de La Flor Instagram: @matiasdelaflor 🎭 Follow The Actor’s Instrument Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast 🎬 Follow Hassiem Muhammad Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad 🎵 Theme Music: Elijah by Isaac Fox🎙 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts 📩 actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com🌐 https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument [https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument]

Why Branding Matters More Than Talent (At First) | Kayvon Esmaili

Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor and headshot photographer Kayvon Esmaili to unpack how branding shapes casting decisions. They explore what makes a headshot effective, common mistakes actors make, and why clarity in your materials is often more important than range when it comes to getting called in. TikTok: @kayvon_es_my_lee Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad 🎵 Theme Music: Elijah by Isaac Fox🎙 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts 📩 actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com🌐 https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument [https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument]

AI vs Audiobook Narrators: What Actors Need to Know | Andy Paris

What does the rise of AI mean for audiobook narrators and voice actors? In this episode of The Actor’s Instrument, Hassiem Muhammad sits down with actor, director, and audiobook narrator Andy Paris to explore the evolving world of audiobook performance. Andy explains what makes narration a unique craft and shares insights from his experience working in the audiobook industry. The conversation also examines the growing role of AI-generated voices and what this technology could mean for actors working in voiceover and storytelling. For actors interested in audiobook narration, voice acting, and the future of performance, this episode offers an insightful look at where the industry may be heading. Follow Andy Paris Instagram: @andymparis Instagram: @actorsinstrumentpodcast Instagram: @HassiemMuhammad 🎵 Theme Music: Elijah by Isaac Fox🎙 Produced in partnership with Next Chapter Podcasts 📩 actorsinstrumentpodcast@gmail.com🌐 https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument [https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/the-actors-instrument] Follow The Actor’s InstrumentFollow Hassiem Muhammad