💥How do you build a lasting acting career in independent film while staying focused on what you can actually control?

In this episode of Podcast of Traveling Actors, we sit down with actor John Wells to discuss his journey from growing up in Kentucky to becoming one of the region's most recognizable action actors. John shares how he transformed his life through fitness, built a successful career in independent film, worked with Mahal Empire, and landed action-heavy roles in projects like Arena Wars.

More importantly, John opens up about one of the biggest lessons he's learned throughout his career: focusing on the work you can control instead of the countless things you can't. From auditions and rejection to filmmaking, fitness, and longevity in the industry, this conversation is filled with practical advice for actors at every stage of their journey.

Topics include: acting in Kentucky • independent filmmaking • Arena Wars • Mahal Empire • action acting • fitness transformation • losing 100 pounds • audition mindset • controlling what you can control • actor training • workshops • filmmaking in the Southeast • overcoming rejection • career longevity • acting advice

Episode Chapters: 00:00 Arena Wars Trailer • 01:40 Meet John Wells • 02:00 Getting Started in Acting • 05:06 From Musician to Actor • 06:03 Relationships & Acting • 08:00 Current Projects • 10:49 Fitness Transformation • 12:19 Preparing for Action Roles • 15:03 Overcoming Rejection & Controlling What You Can Control • 20:22 Working with Mahal Empire • 23:40 Dream Roles • 25:39 Speed Round • 26:51 Where to Find John Wells

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