Kirsten
Ryan (6), Andrew (5)
Aspiring actress and 401(k) educator
You have a passion for acting. How did this start?
I have always enjoyed people and think everyone has a unique story to convey. We are more alike than we are different. I know I go to plays and movies to connect with the characters and see myself and my hardships and joys through someone else. It makes me feel more connected to others. My mission statement is “to inspire people with hope for humanity through my self expression using the craft of acting”.
Did you go to school for acting?
No, I actually went to school for business. I have a Bachelor of Science from the Carlson School of Management. My area of study was Marketing. I worked in the personal finance field for seven years prior to staying home with my kids. I have worked as a freelance 401(k) enroller for the last six years. I do feel my business background has helped me to network and assert myself in the acting field.
What are some of the productions you’ve been in recently?
“Nobody” by director Rob Perez, “Into Temptation” by director Patrick Coyle, and “A Serious Man” by Ethan and Joel Coen. I had my first film experience in October of 2007 when I was in a short film called “Captive” by director Matt Bjorklund. I played the mean mother of a little girl. The film has no dialogue but the message was about authority figures and how children today are shuttled from one activity to the next with little time to daydream and just be kids.
It can be challenging and intimidating to follow a dream. How did you find the drive and perseverance to continue with acting?
About two years ago I went to a life coach because of some issues I was facing. Jan Gagne, my coach, encouraged me to take an acting class. I took an introduction to acting course with Cheryl Moore Brinkley and I felt like my world opened up with all I learned from that first course. I often have days that I am fearful, but I realize as long as I am speaking from my truth and my heart I have nothing to fear. I have since taken two more acting classes with Cheryl and will work with her again in early 2009. I realize I have much to more to learn and am very humbled by the acting process.
Where do you hope to go with your acting career? Is this something you hope to make as a full time profession or is it more for your re-energizing time as a mom?
I am so far taking acting one day at a time. I hope to take more acting classes in 2009 and be a part of a film again. I love the creative energy on a movie set with everyone working together to convey the film’s message. It is exhilarating to me and makes me feel very alive. Yes, the craft of acting is definitely a re-energizing time for me.
What would be your best advice to a woman who would love to pursue a passion out of their comfort zone that may seem so unachievable?
Go for it. Think about what excites you and then find a way to take a class or talk to people who are doing what you want to do. I have always been a joyful person, but I can tell you the last year and a half I have felt more alive because I am following my heart. I have met some of the most amazing and interesting people as a result of putting myself out there. I am also a better wife and mother because I am happier.
Did you ever feel inferior when auditioning?
No, I believe we are all human beings and I do not feel inferior or superior to any other person. I do, however, take deep breaths before an audition and try to maintain a sense of calm. Yoga has helped me learn to breathe and just be, which isn’t natural always with my personality. It helps to keep me grounded.
How did you maintain the courage and passion to continue when it would be so easy to give up?
I have days when I ask myself do I really want the extra stress of going to auditions and facing rejection. I then listen to myself when I am talking about films and ideas and I am so excited. I know it is where I am supposed to be right now in my life.
How do you find balance between being a mom and maintaining your own sense of self outside of motherhood?
I make a conscious effort to take care of myself and listen to what my body is telling me. Yoga has helped me to be still. I tend to over analyze situations and yoga and meditation help me stay present. I tell the kids “mommy needs quiet time, too”. I also have an amazingly supportive husband and family. I would not be able to participate in all the classes, auditions, and shoots if it wasn’t for them.
What is a Hot Mama to you?
A Hot Mama to me is a person not afraid to be vulnerable and is generous with her time. Also, a sense of humor is always hot!
