We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shariann Carlo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shariann below.

Shariann , appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Ever since I was a little girl, I always knew I wanted to be in the entertainment business. Even though they say you have to be crazy to become an actor, I wouldn’t change it for anything because it led me to where I am today. Pursuing this career allowed me to develop multiple semi-passive streams of income. I actually had a regular 9-5 job, and it was pretty fun—I traveled, met lots of great people, was part of a growing company, and it also paid my bills. I’m so grateful for that opportunity and to the people I met along the way however, the lesson I learned is that while working for someone else, in the end, you’re just making them richer. The more time you spend working for them, the less time you have to pursue your dream. I also learned the hard lesson that, no matter how hard you work and the effort you put into a company in the corporate world you think you’re growing with, in the end, you’re just a number and can be replaced at any moment. Acting allowed me to pursue my artistic/creative side while figuring out a way to make it happen. It fuels the fire in me, so auditioning is an opportunity to do what I love. In the beginning, since you don’t make enough to earn a steady income with acting, this situation, in a way, forced me to find ways to generate multiple income streams while working for myself to pay my bills and continue pursuing it. That said, if your 9-5 job gives you the flexibility to pursue your dreams great or if it’s your dream perfect. But, personally based from experience I’d use the capital it would give me to invest and have more freedom to pursue your dreams—something we are all looking for in the end.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I got my start in the industry as an extra on the film “The Rum Diary” starring Johnny Depp in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was one of my initial projects and marked my entry into the world of acting. It was amazing to work with the crew and see how a film comes together. I was able to meet Johnny, and he was very sweet. From there I started taking acting classes and joined a modeling and talent agency and worked on many succesful projects. Once I graduated, I ended up studying graphic design in college with the intention to work as a freelancer to pursue my dream full-time. There I took some intensive acting classes as well as film classes to learn the ins and outs of the business. While I was in college I had the opportunity to be featured in the film 22 Jump Street which allowed me to make great connections and get awesome industry advice from Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum. I then worked as a stand-in for Olivia Holt for Marvel’s Cloak and Dagger and had a great experience.

Another film I also got to work on was Runner Runner with Ben Affleck and Justin Timberlake. Other work I have had the pleasure of working on was commercials with T-Mobile, Blue Bikes, Coca Cola, and Popeyes. I have also been featured in music videos such as “Guaya” by Daddy Yankee and Arcangel. During that time I also booked my first speaking role in Cleaners Season 2, alongside Emily Osment, Emanuel Chriqui, and David Arquette. I actually ended up getting the audition from Facebook and we filmed in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico. The cast and crew were so sweet and inspiring to me, and I am very grateful to have been a part of that production.

One thing that has always differentiated me is the fact that I am Latina and I don’t look like it at all. There’s been a stereotype in this industry that Latinas are supposed to look a certain way when in fact, we come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. I aspire to open doors for my Latin community in the entertainment industry. For directors and producers, I offer a collaborative and dedicated approach. I understand the importance of bringing characters to life in a way that serves the narrative. My ability to immerse myself in a role allows me to contribute positively to the overall vision of a project. I believe that every role, no matter how big or small, contributes to the rich tapestry of storytelling. I approach each project with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a genuine love for the craft. I love creating a story that resonates with the audience and being able to bring that character to life. Being an actor brings me incredible joy as I have the privilege of taking audiences away from reality, inviting them to step into the lives of characters they can root for, loathe, empathize with, and more. Personally, I connect deeply with my role as a performer, embracing my identity as an empath and savoring my genuine love for people. Delving into the intricacies of various life experiences through beautifully crafted fictional characters is not just a job; it’s an honor. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working in theater productions, television series, and even some independent films. My portfolio showcases a range of roles that demonstrate my adaptability and dedication to the art of acting.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Resources that provide guidance on navigating auditions, securing representation, and managing professional relationships can be invaluable. Joining Wendy Alane Wright’s course, the Hollywood Winners Circle, completely changed and upped my game in the entertainment world. Understanding the business of acting helps actors approach their careers as entrepreneurs. This includes learning about contracts, negotiations, and the overall structure of the entertainment industry. Acting can be unpredictable, with periods of intense work followed by potential downtime. Sometimes you won’t have work for months. Knowing how to manage finances, negotiate contracts, and diversify income streams becomes essential for financial stability. It is possible to generate multiple semi-passive income streams that give you the freedom to continue pursuing your dreams. My business side and creative side work equally hard. I was able to find success using the rental arbitrage model, which involves seeking landlords’ approval to lease their properties on a short-term basis, generating rental income that significantly exceeds the monthly rent. After covering the agreed-upon rent, the surplus becomes your profit. Just with one property, I was able to replace the income my 9-5 gave me. I also am developing a hotel with villas on land my family and I own in Puerto Rico. We are getting ready to sell that project. After we sell that project my goal is to start purchasing multiple investment properties in real estate. Another area I was able to invest in was Amazon KDP, learning how to publish books and hiring ghostwriters to do the heavy work. There are so many ways to generate income streams online; it is actually exciting because, in the past, this wasn’t possible. Now it is, and it gives you more flexibility to pursue your passions. I am also in the process of starting a YouTube channel, growing my social media, writing a short film, and seeking national representation.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Two books that were life-changing for me to read that I can say are life-changing for actors, and anyone reading this that wants to change their attitude towards life and success and their relationship with money are: “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero is filled with empowering messages, and one powerful takeaway is the importance of embracing your own worth and taking control of your life. The book’s key message is acknowledging and overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs. She encourages readers to recognize their inner power, let go of fear, and confidently pursue their goals. The book emphasizes that each individual has the capability to create positive change in their life by embracing their uniqueness, cultivating self-love, and taking bold actions to achieve their desires. It’s a call to believe in your own badassery and live a life true to your authentic self.

Another was: “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki imparts several powerful messages, but one central theme is the importance of financial education and a shift in mindset. A key message is the distinction between assets and liabilities. He encourages readers to focus on building assets that generate passive income rather than relying solely on earned income from a job. The book emphasizes the value of understanding money, making it work for you, and cultivating a mindset geared toward financial independence and wealth-building. Ultimately, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” advocates for taking control of your financial destiny through education, smart investments, and a proactive approach to wealth creation.

For actors there isn’t a more powerful book than Power of the Actor by Ivanna Chubbuck. She really has actors tap into their own experiences and emotions to fully emojify their characters in order to reach their full potential.

That said, it is never too late to chase your dreams. No dream is too big, and the only obstacle standing between you and your aspirations is your own self-imposed limitations! Also, get a mentor in order to be where you want to be.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @sharianncarlo