We Speak Entrepreneurs
Hollywood Actor Bradley Bowen Shares 10 Ways To Balance Business And Creative Work
Actor and businessman Bradley Bowen is an expert on pursuing your passions and establishing multiple income streams. A karate and jiu-jitsu champion before becoming an actor and producer, he also owns two businesses – Monument Construction Company, and Man Up (a male skincare line). He recently appeared in the TV series ‘The First Lady’, where he played a secret service agent for Betty Ford, portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer. The ultimate multi-tasker, Bradley has the following advice for people who want to develop a creative passion such as acting alongside a day job:
How Bradley balances being an actor and an entrepreneur:
1. Find flexible work
Bradley says: “Some actors opt for day jobs with flexible hours, such as freelancing or part-time work. This allows them to adjust their schedules around auditions, rehearsals and performances.”
2. Manage your time effectively
“Good time management is crucial. Create detailed schedules, allocating specific time blocks for your day job, acting commitments and personal activities.”
3. Prioritise
“Knowing which commitments take precedence on any given day will help you allocate your energy and time appropriately.”
4. Communicate
“Open communication with employers and colleagues is key. Sharing your acting commitments and schedule can help them understand your availability and potential need for flexibility.”
5. Make the most of your breaks
“Actors often use breaks or lunch hours at work to attend auditions, rehearse lines or work on other acting-related tasks.”
6. Consider remote work
“If feasible, actors could look for day jobs that offer remote work options, giving them more flexibility to manage their acting pursuits.”
7. Setting boundaries
“Establish clear boundaries between work, acting, and personal life to prevent burnout and ensure a healthy work-life balance.”
8. Maximise your weekends
“Weekends are often prime time for auditions, classes and performances. Actors might plan their day jobs around these activities. But be aware that balancing two demanding commitments may require sacrifices – actors might need to make choices about social activities or leisure time.”
9. Network
“Build a supportive network within both your acting and your day job spheres, which will help people to understand your commitments, and can even bring potential opportunities.”
11. Look after yourself
“Taking care of your physical and mental wellbeing is essential. Balancing two careers can be stressful, so self-care should not be neglected.”
Bradley’s advice for new entrepreneurs:
1. Start with a clear vision
“Define your business goals, values, and mission. Having a clear vision will guide your decisions and keep you focused.”
2. Do your market research
“Understand your target audience, competitors and industry trends. This will help you identify opportunities and make informed decisions.”
3. Create a solid business plan
“Outline your business structure, products or services, marketing strategy, and financial projections. A well-thought-out plan can attract investors and guide your growth.”
4. Focus on value
“Ensure that your products or services solve a problem or fulfill a need for your customers. Providing value is essential for customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.”
5. Build a strong online presence
“In today’s digital age, having a website and utilising social media can help you reach a wider audience and establish credibility.”
6. Start small and iterate
“Begin with a manageable scope and gradually expand. Gather feedback from early customers to refine your offerings.”
7. Keep a close eye on your finances
“Monitor cash flow, expenses and revenues. This will help you make informed financial decisions.”
8. Be adaptable
“Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and market conditions. Flexibility is crucial for surviving and thriving in the business world.”
9. Connect with others
“Networking with other entrepreneurs, mentors and industry professionals can provide valuable insights and opportunities.”
10. Be persistent
“Entrepreneurship comes with challenges. Stay persistent and resilient, learning from failures and using them to fuel your growth.”
Featured photo credit: Brent Eite
The last decade has seen an explosion in the creative industry. While navigating the rapidly changing landscape, many creatives have to adapt to the gig economy; freelancing. Creatives are always doing something, going somewhere, or connecting with their audience. The cliche, “your network equals your net-worth”, is important when identifying the rooms and spaces that generate exciting authentic connections. Especially in the city that never sleeps.
Meet Tyla Jones: CEO of LLX Collective
What is LLX Collective and what service do you provide?
“LLX is a premier event marketing, talent management and experiential agency specializing in creating transformative, luxury-driven experiences while remaining the intersection between culture, luxury, passion and purpose. We provide end-to-end services, including strategy, ideation, event production, and brand partnerships, tailored to elevate our clients’ visions. At LLX, we pride ourselves on blending creativity and innovation with a bespoke approach that connects brands with their audiences in meaningful and memorable ways. By way of creating the foundation to how culture shows up to the people, we birthed the LLX Collection. The LLX Collection is our suite of staple events that exude our founding pillars and echoes our mission within our communities.”
Tyla’s luxurious venture into the event curation space started with her putting a “luxe touch” at wedding receptions. She has since expanded her reach and her outlook on how she wants to leave a lasting expression on her specialty guest. Whether aligning herself with the local hottest spots in the city of choice, working with brands such as Tres Generaciones Tequila and partnering with cultures top influencers and makers like DJ Drewski, making her events feel like a family reunion.
Where does the inspiration come from for your collective series ?
“The inspiration for our The LLX Collection stems from a deep passion for culture, storytelling, purpose and connection. I’ve always been fascinated by the combo of culture, art, and community, and I wanted to create spaces that spark conversation and collaboration while amplifying the voices of the culture in authentic ways. Each series draws from diverse influences—whether it’s the vibrancy of the cities we host in, the trailblazers we feature, or the stories we aim to celebrate. It’s about curating moments that inspire, support one’s passion and purpose, indulge the senses, and leave a lasting impression.”
What do you hope to accomplish through the series ?
“Through the LLX Collection, I hope to create a platform that fosters genuine connections while amplifying the voices and artistry of talented individuals who are the main characters of the culture. It’s about more than just hosting events—it’s about cultivating spaces where culture, creativity, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether it’s elevating a brand, celebrating an individual’s achievements, or connecting communities, the ultimate goal is to leave people feeling inspired and enriched by the experience while creating a network of individuals to convene and grow upward together.”
What draws you to partner with a place like Saint Lounge NYC?
“Saint Lounge perfectly embodies the sophistication and energy that aligns with the vision of LLX. Its intimate yet dynamic atmosphere sets the stage for the kind of high-quality, engaging experiences we strive to deliver. Partnering with Saint for the 1st installment of Indulge NYC, allowed us to merge our collective creativity with their impeccable vibe, amazing food and cocktails, creating a backdrop that feels exclusive, immersive, and perfectly tailored to our audience.”
How can people get on your radar for an invite?
“We’re always looking for passionate, creative individuals who bring unique energy to our events. Staying connected on social media is a great first step—follow Founder of LLX, Tyla on IG & on LLX socials at @LuxeMonroeLLX or on our website www.LuxeMonroe.com/LLX for updates and announcements. We also keep an eye out for those who are making an impact in their fields, from creatives and entrepreneurs to cultural influencers. If you’re aligned with our values and want to engage with our community, reaching out directly is always welcomed!”
What’s next for the INDULGE series and how can people get invited or partner with the Collective?
“The INDULGE series is just getting started, and we’re excited to continue elevating the concept with even more dynamic conversations, immersive experiences, and unexpected collaborations. What’s next includes taking the series to new cities and curating events that explore untold stories, highlight emerging talent, and celebrate culture in innovative ways.”
For an invite, staying engaged with LLX on social media is key. We often share updates and sneak peeks about upcoming events. For partnerships, we’re always open to working with individuals and brands that share our passion for storytelling, culture, and community. Whether it’s sponsoring an event, collaborating on activation’s, or bringing unique ideas to life, reaching out to us through our website, social channels or email Info@LuxeMonroe.com is the best way to start the conversation.
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