Ep. 175: From Arkansas to Hollywood: Nate Mays on Chasing Stardom, Finding Family, and Owning Your “Weird”
What happens when a small-town Arkansas upbringing collides with big Hollywood dreams—and a family story unlike anything you’ve ever heard? In this episode of Everything and Anything… and a Bit Gay, Zach sits down with rising actor, model, and visual artist Nate Mays. From booking roles in LA to producing his own films, Nate shares what it really takes to break into the entertainment industry—and why staying true to yourself might be the most powerful tool you have. But that’s just the beginning. Nate also opens up about discovering his biological father at 18… and gaining over 25 siblings in the process. It’s a story of identity, connection, and redefining what family really means. This episode is raw, inspiring, and full of moments that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even look at your own journey a little differently.
Everything & Anything...and a bit gay Podcast · Zach Randes-Friedman
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Show Notes
Show Notes
- Nate Mays’ journey from small-town Arkansas to Los Angeles
- The reality of breaking into acting: auditions, callbacks, and bookings
- Why community matters in a fast-paced industry like Hollywood
- Acting vs. producing vs. writing—wearing multiple creative hats
- The “weird actor life” and why embracing it is key
- Nate’s dream roles and inspirations (including Meryl Streep & John Bernthal)
- The truth about independent film vs. big-budget productions
- Discovering his biological father through sperm donation
- Having 25+ siblings across the country—and what that’s like
- The emotional impact of finding identity through family and art
- Nate’s passion for murals and visual storytelling
- Why empathy is one of the greatest gifts acting can give
🔗 Follow Nate:
Instagram: @natemayes / @muralsbymayes
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!
Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ
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