Brought to you by Lauren Abbott, Studio Manager of The Forge
"Coffee With..." is a blog brought to you by The Forge. Every month, we sit down for a coffee chat with industry professionals who are doing cool things in the world of film. Whether they're behind the camera or in front of it, these individuals bring fresh perspectives, new ideas, and inspiring stories from the heart of the entertainment industry.
I had the immense pleasure of sitting down for coffee with Lauren Smith, the Theatre Agent at Talent X Alexander. From the moment we began talking, it was clear that Lauren is deeply committed to her actors. She takes the time to truly support the people she represents and works tirelessly on their behalf.As we settled into our conversation, Lauren ordered a vanilla oat milk cappuccino, and I opted for a matcha latte. I asked her,
What is one resource you wish you had when you first started in the industry?
She shared how she began her career as an actor before transitioning to the “other side” as an agent. Lauren reflected on how she wishes someone had told her just how many aspects of the industry are beyond your control. She explained, “I always tell my talent that if you’re thinking about something—whether it’s career-related, an audition, or something in the industry— for more than a day, PLEASE send me an email. The odds are high that I can answer it, offer feedback, or point you in the right direction. I want to help stop that anxiety spiral we all know so well.” She emphasized how much she understands what actors go through because she was once one herself. Curious to hear more about her perspective on working with talent, I asked,
What’s your favorite piece of advice to give to actors?
Without hesitation, she replied, "YOU DESERVE TO TAKE UP SPACE! And take up that space as YOU—not who you think casting or your agents want you to be. Keep growing, keep discovering things about yourself as both a performer and a person. Set boundaries—SAY NO! This career often has a 'yes-man' or 'hustle' culture, but it's important to protect yourself and do what’s right for YOU. This is your career, after all. We’re in it for the long haul. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
What are you working on personally right now?
Lauren said “Right now, I am REALLY into sharing my life on my social media. I have been finding a lot of joy in capturing my days and showing what it looks like to be a talent agent in the city! It's nice to have a digital diary of this time in my life so once I have been in this business for 30 years, I will be able to look back and see how much I have grown as an agent/advocate!”It was evident just how much Lauren advocates for her talent. Her passion and care for them are undeniable, and I felt so grateful for the opportunity to talk with her about her mission. One of the causes Lauren is especially passionate about is bringing more diversity in body shapes, sizes, and abilities to the Chicago stage. She firmly believes an actor’s body or size has nothing to do with their talent or their right to be in the room. As our conversation wound down and we got ready to head home, I asked Lauren my favorite question: her all-time favorite movie. With a smile, she said, “Can’t Buy Me Love, starring a young Patrick Dempsey.”
We want to hear from you, too! Do you have a burning question or a topic you'd love us to cover in an upcoming interview? Leave a comment below, and we’ll take your ideas into consideration for the next Coffee With... chat. Who knows? You might just get to ask the question next! Want to learn more about Lauren Smith? You can follow along on her journey on Instagram and TikTok, under the username @laurenelizsmith. !! She posts "Days in my life" on TikTok where she shows what it's like to be a talent agent.
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