We recently connected with Sally Forcier and have shared our conversation below.

Sally, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

I started my casting company, Forcier Casting, in 1999. But in 2008, while navigating a sudden divorce, I found myself needing more stability and took a full-time position with the California State Lottery, directing and producing for them.
Despite the demands of that job, I made it my mission not to give up on my business—my true passion. For the next eight years, I essentially worked two full-time jobs. Deep down, I knew I had outgrown the Lottery role after about three or four years, but the comfort of a steady paycheck and health benefits kept me there. I was afraid to walk away.
It wasn’t until 2017 that I finally took a leap of faith and left that job to focus entirely on my company—and to expand into film production. Thanks to the encouragement of my then boyfriend, now husband.. It was a huge risk, but it turned out to be the best decision I ever made for both my life and my career.
Life will always present challenges—but it also presents opportunities. It takes faith, courage, and conviction to recognize the right path for yourself and your loved ones.
I share this story often because I want others to know: if you’re in a job that feels safe but no longer brings you joy, don’t be afraid to lean into your entrepreneurial spirit. You might be closer to your purpose than you think.
Since going full-time with my business in 2017—with no fallback or side job—I’ve flourished. I’ve grown, found peace, and reaped the rewards of taking that risk. No regrets—only gratitude.

Sally, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My first introduction to the industry came when my sister dragged me to a casting call to be an “extra.” To my surprise, I was booked immediately on three films back-to-back as a stand-in—and I was instantly bitten by the bug. I knew right then that this was something I truly wanted to pursue, even if just as a hobby. So I jumped all in as an on-camera actor.
Within a year, I began working part-time for my local talent agent while juggling life as a young mom. When that job came to an end four years later, I decided to start a small business—helping other actors by consulting them on how the industry works. Just six months later, I manifested the idea of launching a casting company… and it worked!
Through that experience, I discovered a lot about myself—especially my work ethic and drive. The desire to be my own boss, to create something of my own, was a powerful motivator. With no college degree or formal training, I’m extremely proud of my younger self for facing those challenges head-on and never giving up.
A few years later, I felt the urge to do even more in the industry. I recognized that my strengths in organization and people skills were a great foundation for producing. So I began putting myself out there—offering support to current clients on their productions. Fast forward to today: I’ve produced 12 films, cast hundreds of projects, and helped thousands of actors over the course of my 25-year career.
One division I’m especially proud of is my work as an Acting Coach. I work with actors across the country, teaching them acting, audition, and marketing techniques to help them not only book work but thrive in this industry.
Being based in Northern California, we often diversify to stay busy—and that flexibility has brought great rewards. One of the greatest joys is watching people start with zero experience—just raw passion—and witnessing them grow into confident, working actors. That’s the kind of impact that makes it all so worthwhile.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

The biggest pivot I’ve had to make came after COVID shut everything down. Thankfully, our industry had already started shifting toward self-taped auditions before the pandemic—but COVID accelerated that change overnight. Online auditions quickly became the standard for both clients and actors.
That shift meant I had to completely rethink how I ran my business. One of the biggest changes was letting go of my 1,500-square-foot office space and transitioning to working entirely from my home office.
What I’m most proud of during that time is the decision I made in 2020—right at the height of shelter-in-place—to invest in my business. Even though I wasn’t generating income for over a year, I took a leap of faith and built a brand-new website and database system. It was a huge risk, but ultimately, it was exactly what I needed to grow and strengthen my business for the long term.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

My team works incredibly hard—especially when we’re in the middle of big projects—so I always make it a point to recognize their efforts. I give them special shoutouts on social media, but I also take it a step further. When a major project wraps, I treat them to a celebratory dinner. It’s a chance to unwind, reflect, and honor all the dedication and hard work that went into making it a success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://forciercasting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forciercasting/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1508579/admin/dashboard/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@salforc

Image Credits

Kelsey Edwards