#02: Why should I listen to you?
It’s frustrating how often I’m offering free advice to a Hollywood newcomer, and the recipient cuts me off by saying, “So who are you? Have I ever seen you before?” That single statement says that the entire standard for validity in that person’s world is having a famous or recognizable face. Welcome to our culture of celebrity - and to your biggest obstacle to making your entertainment dreams come true.
Let me please say that I have never been and don’t have any goal of being famous due to a career in entertainment. I am, instead, fulfilled due to my career in entertainment. At one point in the past 20+ years, I have met my own standard of validity and success - I have paid my rent/mortgage, car note, grocery bills, utilities, supported my french fry habit, socialized with friends and traveled extensively thanks to steady professional income in show biz. That includes runway modeling, acting, singing and songwriting, screenwriting and now television producing. I love what I do, though I confess I don’t always love doing it.
You know what I DO love? Always? Mentoring people. I’ve had some amazing supporters in my life, and it means a great deal to me to help other people see the real entertainment industry, warts and more, and find a place inside of it. I’ve seen people soar here…and I’ve seen people really burned out and hurting. And the difference between those two spaces is who you believe you are, what you are here to achieve, and what you can learn about achieving it.
I want to help you see, accept, experience and thrive in this very tough business. And for that, you don’t need to know who I am. You need to know what I know.
Read on.