We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lester G. Reynolds a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lester G., thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I am the oldest of three children. Growing up we never really had much. My parents had limited education having not finished high school. We moved around alot. I mean we were definitely poor. I found escape in music and tv—quite often imagining myself living life as the characters I saw on the TV…I felt alive in those moments.

I began to participate in school plays and my imagination began to truly soar. By the time I reached my teenage years—I knew that oneday I was going to an instrumental part of the creative industry. I just didn’t know how or when. But I continued to hone my skills and to be part of as many venues as I could. Little did I know that I was forming the foundations in which my career now stands.

Lester G., before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am Lester G. Reynolds, American Actor/Producer. Oldest of three children. As a young boy, I dreamed of a better life than that as which I had. I wanted to touch people through my art and to do something that truly mattered in this life. I spent countless hours, honing my skills as an actor-escaping my current situations at the time through the art of imagination.

I was quickly labeled a “Dreamer”–especially as I reached my teen years and well into my early 20’s. Most are expected to follow the path of life and get a “real Job” and put away childish thinking–but I simply could not as I always knew in my heart I was on a different path. Yet–I had bills to pay so, I worked and made money–but I wanted to find a path in which I could do what I love and still be able to pay my bills.

My Dad always tried to discourage me,,,He would tell me that I was wasting my time and that all that I would find if I continued down this path—was disappointment. Still—I could not ignore what I felt in my heart was my calling–it was bigger than me—I couldn’t explain it—and try as I may—and believe me–I tried to walk away—but it would not let me. I was miserable and empty inside when I was not involved in anything creative–be it music, acting, writing or some form of art.

I spent a good portion of my early adult years miserable—punching a time clock—until oneday–after enduring a gut wrenching divorce and failed marriage—I got on a bus and made a five day journey across country to Los Anegles,California. I did not know anyone-had nothing waiting on me. I had just enough money to buy the ticket but I did not care. I had nothing to lose. I stepped off that bus in L.A. homeless, jobless and penniless. But, I was alive inside. I found a job as a telemarketer, worked by day, slept on the streets at night because I could not afford housing.
Eventually, I found my way into TV/Film as a background/extra…met an incredible woman who believed in me…and we joined forces. I quit my telemarketer job and went all in on my acting career.

Along my journey I caught the attention of several well known names in the business, who mentored me, offered advice and guidance. Of course the road still wasn’t easy because you still have to do the work, you must hone your skills and your craft because the opportunities alone are nothing if you cannot execute when the time comes. I’ve now been in the business nearly 20 years—I have been married to the very woman who came to my aide when I arrived in L.A. for that same 20 years and we have 2 incredible sons.

I have been part of many projects and productions in various roles alongside some big names. My name is still gaining momentum and I am still very much building my career and honing my skills daily. I seek out opportunities to be part of meaningful projects and to impact lives through our art. I am nowhere near where I want to be…in terms of my career goals, but everyday I am doing all I can with what I have to continue to grow and learn and develop my skills.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being a creative is impacting lives and inspiring others. You truly never know how a simple act of kindness can touch someones life. It can be as simple as a kind word, a hug, or gentle nudge to keep them moving towards their goals. I share my story where I can because so many times people only see the end results of someones efforts but they never see the journey or the struggles they went through to get there.

It’s not all glitz, glamour, and red carpets or your name in lights—because before any of that ever happens—there are tears, disappointments and failures—for this is where the lessons are learned–the skills are honed and warriors are birthed.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is simple: Be better today than I was yesterday. I always give my best. I’m always trying to learn something new. I never forget where I come from and I take nothing or no one for granted.

I cherish every moment–because nothing is promised to any of us.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imdb.me/lestergreynolds
• Instagram: @lestergreynolds