We recently connected with Mansi Mehra and have shared our conversation below.

Mansi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

<b>Taking a Risk: Driving cross-country from LA to New York with My Dog</b>

For 16 years, Los Angeles had been my home. I built my life there—a thriving community, a reliable routine, and a comfort zone that felt like an impenetrable bubble. Yet, as much as I loved the City of Angels, I found myself yearning for something new, something challenging. The thought of uprooting everything and driving cross-country to New York—with just my dog as my travel companion—felt like a leap into the unknown. But sometimes, taking a risk is exactly what you need to rediscover yourself.

<b>The Decision to Leave</b>:
Leaving LA wasn’t an easy decision. Sixteen years is a long time to call a place home. My community had become my family, my comfort zone was my sanctuary, and the thought of leaving it all behind was terrifying. But deep down, I knew that growth doesn’t happen in comfort. I wanted to challenge myself, explore new horizons, and take control of my narrative. Driving nearly 3,000 miles across the country was not the most practical way to do it, but it was the adventure I needed.

<b>Preparing for the Journey</b>:
The weeks leading up to the trip were bittersweet. I had countless farewell dinners, hugs that lingered a little longer, and promises to keep in touch. Packing my house was an emotional task. I put all my belongings into storage, carefully tucking away 16 years of memories. With just two suitcases, my dog’s essentials, and a car full of hope, I prepared for the journey ahead. My dog, sensing the change, followed me around with curious eyes as if to say, “What’s next?” With a playlist of my favorite songs, a map, and a lot of nerves, we set out on the open road.

<b>Doing It the Old-School Way</b>:
I decided to plan the trip the old-school way, using a physical map and chalking out the route. There was something nostalgic and grounding about tracing the journey with a pen, plotting stops and landmarks. Our first leg was from Los Angeles to Needles, Arizona. The drive was smooth initially, with the California desert offering breathtaking views. But just as we neared Needles, my car started showing signs of trouble. Pulling over on the side of the road, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of anxiety. Fortunately, a local mechanic in Needles helped get the car back on track, and after a short delay, we were ready to continue. This hiccup reminded me that even the best-laid plans could face unexpected detours, but adaptability was key.

<b>Researching Along the Way</b>:
As I crossed each state, I started researching its unique history and quirks, which made the journey even more enriching:
• From LA to Needles, AZ: Arizona is known as the Valentine’s State (and has had several capital changes).
• New Mexico: I drove through Route 66, learning that New Mexico was where Breaking Bad was filmed and where the first atomic bomb was detonated.
• Flagstaff, AZ: A picturesque stop with its stunning landscapes especially known for antelope canyons.
• Old Town Albuquerque: Famous for its hot air balloon fiesta (as seen in the iconic Microsoft wallpaper).
• Amarillo, Texas: A charming slice of the Lone Star State.
• Oklahoma City: A city with a rich history and welcoming vibe.
• Springfield, Missouri: which was so gloomy that it felt like misery!
• St. Louis: Known for its iconic Gateway Arch.
• Indianapolis, Indiana: Did you know it’s illegal to have a mustache if you’re prone to compulsively kissing strangers? That made me laugh!
• Columbus, Ohio: A vibrant city filled with charm (because my ex is from here LOL)
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: A city of bridges and rich culture.
• New York: Finally, the bustling city that marked the end of my journey.
Covering four time zones in four days was no small feat, but it added a sense of accomplishment to the adventure.

<b>Embracing the Journey</b>:
The first few hours of the trip were filled with a mix of excitement and doubt. As I drove through the deserts of Nevada and Arizona, the vast, open landscapes mirrored the vastness of the unknown ahead. My dog, sitting in the passenger seat with his ears flopping in the wind, was my anchor. His enthusiasm for every pit stop and new smell reminded me to embrace the moment.
We quickly developed a routine: long stretches of driving, frequent stops for walks and snacks, and nights spent in pet-friendly motels. Each day brought new challenges and new wonders. From fearing if someone would break-into the car to what if the motel is shady, every mile felt like a step further away from my comfort zone and closer to self-discovery.

<b>Moving for a New Opportunity</b>:
My move to New York was driven by a new job—a fresh opportunity to challenge myself professionally. It meant starting over, building my network from scratch, and proving myself in a new environment. While daunting, this aspect of the move excited me. It was an opportunity to grow, to meet people from diverse backgrounds, and to immerse myself in the fast-paced energy of a new city.

<b>Arriving in New York</b>:
After days of driving and countless cups of coffee, we finally arrived in New York. The city’s skyline was a sight to behold, filling me with a mix of relief, pride, and excitement for what lay ahead. I had taken a risk, left behind 16 years of familiarity, and embraced a new chapter in my life. We reached Sunday late night crashing at a friend’s place and Monday morning at 8am, I showed up in Manhattan to my workplace, without a pinch of wooziness.

<b>Lessons Learnt</b>:
This journey wasn’t just about getting from Los Angeles to New York; it was about rediscovering myself. It taught me the importance of taking risks, trusting the journey, and stepping out of my comfort zone. Most importantly, it deepened the bond with my dog. He wasn’t just my travel companion; he was my co-pilot, my motivator, and my reminder to find joy in the little things.
Leaving LA after 16 years was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but it was also one of the most rewarding. If you’re standing on the edge of a risk, uncertain of what lies ahead, I encourage you to take the leap. The road may be long and unpredictable, but it’s often on these journeys that we find ourselves.

“When life throws lemons, you make lemonade out of it. When life throws you on the road, you make a road trip out of it.” – Mansi Mehra

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi, I’m Mansi Mehra— a technologist, filmmaker, comedian, and adventurer, currently based in New York after spending 16 transformative years in Los Angeles. My multifaceted journey weaves together creativity, technical expertise, and a passion for storytelling.

How I Got Into My Industries
I hold a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Southern California, which initially set my path in technology. Alongside my professional career as a technologist, my love for storytelling drew me to filmmaking, acting, stand-up comedy and hosting events.
What I Provide
• Technology Expertise: In my role as a customer engineer, I specialize in creating technical solutions that help businesses streamline their operations and achieve their goals.
• Creative Works: As a filmmaker and writer, I craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences. My films explore diverse narratives and often reflect themes of resilience and self-discovery.
• Comedy and Hosting: Through stand-up and hosting, I bring laughter and connection to my audiences, making events memorable and enjoyable.

Problems I Solve
I bridge the gap between creativity and technology, helping businesses and clients navigate challenges with innovative solutions. Whether it’s crafting a technical strategy, directing a film, or creating a stand-up set, I focus on problem-solving through storytelling, empathy, and precision.

What Sets Me Apart
What distinguishes me is my ability to wear multiple hats with authenticity and impact. My experiences in diverse fields allow me to bring unique perspectives to my work. I thrive in pushing boundaries, whether it’s crafting a technical roadmap or capturing human emotion on screen. Being bilingual, I capture audiences from various backgrounds as I understand cultures from both east-side and west-side of the world.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I take pride in my adaptability and the courage to pursue my passions. From being featured in Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In and Brown Girl Magazine to uprooting my life in LA for a new adventure in New York, I’ve embraced challenges that have shaped my journey. My work across industries reflects a commitment to growth, authenticity, and connection.

What I Want You to Know
Whether you’re a business in need of technical solutions, a collaborator in storytelling, or an audience member seeking laughter, my mission is to create value and foster connections. I believe in the power of creativity, resilience, and a good sense of humor to overcome challenges and inspire others.
Let’s create something remarkable together!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional and universal level. Through art—whether it’s film, comedy, music, storytelling or any performance—you can evoke emotions, spark ideas, and inspire change in ways that words alone often cannot. Here are a few rewarding aspects:

1. Emotional Resonance
Seeing your work resonate with others and knowing it made them feel seen, understood, or inspired is profoundly fulfilling. It creates a shared human experience.
2. Creative Freedom
As an artist, you have the freedom to express yourself authentically. Translating personal experiences or abstract ideas into tangible creations feels like giving a piece of your soul to the world.
3. Impact and Legacy
Art has the power to influence perspectives, ignite conversations, and leave a lasting legacy. Knowing your work might outlive you and continue to impact others is a unique privilege.
4. Continuous Growth
The artistic journey is one of lifelong learning and self-discovery. Experimenting with techniques and concepts allows you to grow both as an artist and an individual.
5. Building Connections
Art fosters connections with diverse audiences and fellow creatives. Collaborations and feedback often lead to meaningful relationships and a sense of community.
6. Challenging Norms
Artists often have the opportunity to challenge societal norms, advocate for important issues, and drive cultural conversations, making art a tool for meaningful change.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect is the joy of creating something unique that reflects your vision, touches lives, and contributes to the shared human narrative.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

“Start with Why” by Simon Sinek: This book emphasizes the importance of identifying your core purpose or “why” before diving into the “what” and “how.” It helped me focus on building meaningful connections and inspiring teams and clients with a clear vision. I also like “The subtle art of not giving a f*ck” by Mark Manson and “You are a badass” by Jen Sincero (read this repeatedly!)

I follow these YouTube channels in my downtime – Andrew Huberman (Huberman Lab), The school of life, The Financial diet and Ali Abdaal. It just depends on my mood. My 3 am guilty pleasure is South park!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mansimehra.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/machchar/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/machcharmehra/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mansimehra/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MansiMehra

Image Credits
Image credits: Gene Lewis from Virtuimagery Sujith Nakka Qumaru Nisa