Meet Dave Pileggi | Actor | Acting Coach | Film Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dave Pileggi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dave, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I saw so many actors and creatives in need of expert level wisdom and NOT getting honest, transparent, excellent, and affordable help to move their careers along quickly so I knew I had to help them. I believe when we see that we have the answer to someone’s problem, it’s a divine sign that we are the physical answer to their spiritual prayer and it’s our responsibility to be that answer.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I believe I’m set apart to function in this industry based on my mission statement so every decision is based off of and points to that. “To exponentially grow a career to touch the most lives possible and make a life long impact on every life I touch both behind and in front of the camera.” I think I’m most proud of following my hearts leading in building my acting career as a sustainable business instead of an ego driven effort to accomplish that mission. While the “big name” many entertainers chase, can happen organically as you grow, there’s a distinct difference in viewing the mission based on impact both short term and long term. I have viewed this like a strategic business for impact so when I look at revenue sources, target markets, and what the industry needs of me and my category most I can build it accordingly. I have been blessed to be on almost 550 sets in my career…film, television, commercial and corporate are all in the mix of what I’ve built. Most actors only focus on their film and television career but if that’s all you work on I’ve found it’s not a sustainable career financially unless you “hit it big” with a series regular role or massive film. Mixing it all together and being excellent in each is where I’ve found financial stability and success.
WHICH IS WHY I’ve also learned to write scripts, produce projects, and started our production company which is now in talks with major distributors for a comedy I’ve written, as well as a dramatic series of films. We are taking meetings with numerous investors, distributors and production partners because of the IP we’ve secured to create projects that will make s worldwide impact. The more we learn, the more action we take, the more impact we make.
Also, creating an acting studio, www.ClimbingTheCallSheet.com, based on this foundation has helped other actors do the same. Giving them the framework and the “HOW TO” build a life long career of impact is so exciting as they can see how much is possible when they prep and build with this in mind.
I’ve learned most actors sit, wait, and pray…which is all good…but at some point you have to put together a plan and take action to grow in your calling.
I struggled with suicidal thoughts and almost took my life in 2008 when the market crashed when we lost everything because I felt like I wasn’t enough to barely provide much less make an impact. After a divine intervention in that moment I realized I was called to make an impact. From suicide to success…the world should know it’s possible.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living the burbs of Atlanta I’ve been able to experience so many epic places for entertainment, meals and more. I would take my friends out for breakfast first to my favorite spot in Roswell, GA called “Gracious Plenty.” An amazing environment, food, staff and atmosphere that is just unmatched. Then we’d go for a bike ride on the “Silver Comet” for great exercise and an amazing view.” Lunch is next, and we must stop at Che Butter Jones for the one of the BEST lunch experiences you can have. After that, we hit a little hike at the Roswell Mill to experience the waterfall and get some steps in. Then we prep for a night out for dinner and a show. Dinner would have to be at 6 Feet Under. My wife and I have gone there for over a decade and they have NEVER disappointed us. Always great food, fun atmosphere and awesome staff members. To take in a show we would check what’s playing at The Fox, Whole World Improv Theater, or check if there’s a great comedian in town and decide which show to take in. BUT, if no show peaks our interest we’ll find a great sporting event to take in depending on the season and go see the Falcons, Hawks, or Braves. YES, this would all be in one day…I have that kind of energy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My success in the entertainment industry is due to SO MANY PEOPLE. First, is my wife, Wendy, who is always looking out for me and pushing me to be better while covering me in prayer every single day. Then, there’s those who believe in me and stick their neck out for me so I can have opportunities that I would never have without them, like my agents. Also, my mentors, prayer partners, and accountability partners which range from 50 year veterans in the entertainment industry, to fellow actors I started in this industry with. They constantly check on me, pray for me and encourage me to stay on mission, do great work, and focus on pouring into others to make an impact so the industry DOES NOT become all about me and what I can get.

Website: https://www.ClimbingTheCallSheet.com

Instagram: @davepileggi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davepileggi/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@climbingthecallsheet