In participating in workshops and symposiums for writers and actors I try to be forthright about the pit falls I've observed that people seem to fall into and the realities in how to approach stacking the odds in your favor as much as you can.
I don't dwell on how difficult the industry is – everyone knows all about that. I try to make a point of reasonably encouraging people, but do give my honest, yet hopefully tasteful and constructive measured personal opinion to someone's work.
I especially try to speak to things I believe could be changed or developed, both in an actor and a writer's approach and work, with the hope of helping to give a better chance for success for that person as well as a stronger impact to get noticed.
I try to be specific as opposed to just dealing in broad generalities that frequently aren't that relatable to the writer or actor.
Please feel free to contact me for additional information or thoughts for workshops and especially symposiums or retreats you may be planning. I am willing to go to other cities.