Coffee & Content: Why the Long-Game Wins in Hollywood

Coffee & Content: Why the Long-Game Wins in Hollywood

Happy Sunday, Creative Army!
Have you had a creative weekend so far? Whether you’ve been writing, filming, editing, or simply dreaming up your next big idea, I’ve got some inspiring content to fuel your passion and keep you moving forward. So grab your coffee, and let’s dive in.
First up, check out this week’s featured video: The Hollywood Reporter’s Drama Actor Roundtable.
This incredible panel features Adam Scott (Severance), Cooper Koch (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story), Diego Luna (Andor, La Máquina), Eddie Redmayne (The Day of the Jackal), Jeffrey Wright (The Agency, The Last of Us), and Walton Goggins (The White Lotus, The Righteous Gemstones).
They get real about their most recent projects, what it takes to stay grounded in this business, and how their early struggles shaped the careers they have now. It’s honest. It’s revealing. And if you’re an actor, writer, or filmmaker looking to understand the why behind the work, you’ll want to carve out time for this.
One thing they all speak to is something I say all the time on Stage 32: this is a long-game.
During my last Ask Me Anything session, a Stage 32 member asked how to make authentic connections. And here’s the truth, you don’t network. You build relationships. You take the time. You offer value. You stay curious.
When I sold my television series to Amblin with a rockstar showrunner attached, it wasn’t because I cold-pitched or forced the connection. It was because I spent 6 or 7 years building a real friendship with that writer. I admired him, read his work, gave feedback when he asked, and never once asked for anything in return. Years later, when I finally asked him to give me feedback on my pilot script, he not only read it—he wanted in. That moment only happened because I played the long-game with purpose, with care, and without agenda.
So how do you apply this to your journey? Start by showing up. Be visible and active on Stage 32. Don’t just send requests—engage. Leave thoughtful comments on other members’ posts in the lounges. Thank people who share great content. Post your own insights or questions. Offer your time.
When you do this consistently, you’ll build a network that’s not just wide—it’s deep. And that’s where opportunity lives.
Who’s someone you’ve built a relationship with on Stage 32 that’s made a difference in your journey? Or, what’s one step you’ll take this week to deepen your creative relationships?
Share in the comments. Let’s learn from each other and keep lifting each other up.
As always, we love sharing inspiration, tools, and insights that help fuel your creative fire. Know someone who would love this content? Share it with them. And don’t forget to tag us (@Stage32) if you do. You can keep up with everything we’re doing on the Stage 32 YouTube and by following me on Instagram and X: @rbwalksintoabar.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and creative Sunday.
Cheers,
RB
The Hollywood Reporter | Full THR Drama Actor Roundtable 2025
RBWalksIntoABar | How To Make Authentic Connections That Matter
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About the Author

Richard "RB" Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Richard "RB" Botto has created the online platform and marketplace designed to democratize the entertainment industry, Stage 32. By leveling the playing field for all film, television and digital content creators and professionals worldwide, Stage 32 provides networking and training opportunities as...