We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alicia Reason a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alicia , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

Before resigning from corporate I saved up 1 year worth of savings, should I fail at finding roller skating and dance gig for a whole year. My savings was accomplished through my side gig as a part time skate coach. I have been working as a full time creative for 1 year and 11 months successfully. I spend 4-5 hours per day submitting for gigs and attending callbacks, as well as send out daily pitches to prospective clients through networking gatherings, word of mouth, or direct emailing.

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 am a pro roller skater and dancer and I got into the performing arts industry firstly through open casting calls and word of mouth from those who have witnessed my work and happen to have connections to the industry. I am most proud of the fact that find work weekly, in spite of Hollywood overlooking me, not because of lack of skills, but because I don’t fit the Eurocentric standards the industry has been groomed to solely accept. I stand out from the crowd through my unique approach to skating and dance. I blend the two together and I don’t hold back on the theatrics or intricacies of moves.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is being able to create your own lane. I don’t have to answer to a boss on a daily basis. I get to pick and choose the gigs I see best fits my brand’s image. I get to net work with the right people at my own leisure. I get to walk away at the end of the day, knowing that I put my best foot forward, and I am that much closer to achieving all of my dreams without having to answer to a middleman.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I had to unlearn the stubborn thought and belief that the level of talent is the only thing that gets you far in the performing arts industry in Hollywood. In fact, it is knowing the right people, having a great rapport with the right people, and having a fresh new image that is both captivating and memorable that gets you the furthest in the industry under the guise of Hollywood.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.larollercrew.com
• Instagram: @areason2skate