Today we’d like to introduce you to Lydia Garza
Hi Lydia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my career as a TV and Film actress in Hollywood, where I had the privilege of working alongside legends like Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks in The Terminal, and Kate Winslet and Jack Black in The Holiday. Some of my favorite TV appearances include iconic shows like CSI, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Prison Break, and Desperate Housewives. After years in front of the camera, I transitioned into casting, then to producing and coaching, where I honed my passion for shaping talent.
My journey took another exciting turn when I decided to open my own talent agency after relocating from Austin to Corpus Christi. For over a decade, our agency has thrived, representing over 200 actors across the country and booking talent in commercials, print, television, and film.
Most recently, I embraced a new challenge as the Film and Music Commissioner for Corpus Christi. My mission is clear: to boost production in Texas—particularly in the Corpus Christi area—by attracting new projects and fostering a dynamic creative environment.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s part of what has made the journey so rewarding. In the beginning, it was an uphill battle trying to secure work as an actress in Hollywood. The transition from acting to casting, then to producing and coaching, was challenging as I had to learn new skills and step outside my comfort zone. When I decided to open my talent agency, I faced the difficulty of building something from the ground up. But with hard work, persistence, and a strong support system, the agency grew and became successful.
Most recently, taking on the role of Film and Music Commissioner has brought its own set of challenges. It’s a new position, so there’s been a lot of groundwork to be done to create awareness and attract production opportunities to the area. But every challenge has been a learning experience, and I’m excited about the progress we’re making. Ultimately, every obstacle has strengthened my passion for what I do and has pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Our talent agency is dedicated to providing exceptional representation to actors, with a focus on both regional talent in Texas and those with national appeal. We specialize in booking talent for a variety of media—commercials, print, television, and film—and have a reputation for being deeply connected within the industry. What sets us apart is our personalized approach: we take the time to understand each individual’s unique strengths and aspirations, helping to guide their career in the right direction.
We’re known for our integrity, dedication, and the long-term relationships we build with both our talent and our clients. Over the last decade, we’ve been proud to represent over 200 actors, many of whom have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers. What makes us unique is our intimate, boutique-style agency that combines personalized attention with the resources and experience of larger agencies. This means our clients receive the best of both worlds: a hands-on, supportive environment with the reach and credibility of a more established firm.
What I’m most proud of as a brand is the genuine growth and success of our talent. Watching actors evolve, book major roles, and develop their careers in ways they didn’t even imagine has been incredibly rewarding. We pride ourselves on being a launching pad for talent, helping them navigate the entertainment industry with guidance, experience, and a commitment to their success.
We take pride in the professional, reliable service we offer and are passionate about creating lasting relationships with both our talent and clients. Our focus is always on creating opportunities for our actors, helping them shine in every project they take on.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor and building a solid network can be transformative, but it’s important to approach it with both patience and authenticity. My advice would be to start by identifying people you truly admire or respect in your industry—whether it’s someone whose work you’ve followed or someone whose values align with yours. Mentorship is not just about finding someone who’s achieved what you want to, but someone who is willing to invest in your growth and guide you through challenges.
For me, what’s worked well is being genuine and transparent about my goals and what I’m hoping to learn. When I approach potential mentors or network with industry professionals, I try to be clear about my intentions and ask specific questions. That way, the conversation feels more meaningful and focused.
Additionally, I’ve found that networking isn’t just about going to events and handing out business cards—it’s about building relationships over time. Take the time to really connect with people, offer value where you can, and be open to learning from all kinds of experiences. I’ve met some of my most valuable mentors through small, personal interactions or projects, rather than big formal events.
Lastly, never underestimate the power of social media and online communities. Today, it’s easier than ever to find industry groups, attend virtual events, or reach out to people through platforms like LinkedIn. Networking isn’t just about who you know now, but about creating a community that you can learn from and contribute to over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theblancoagency.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_blanco_agency/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theblancoagency
