We were lucky to catch up with Camille Kauer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Camille, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Going back to the beginning – how did you come up with the idea in the first place?
My journey into the world of entrepreneurship was shaped by my diverse upbringing and deep love for the arts. Growing up in various countries exposed me to a rich tapestry of cultures and artistic expressions. My creative family played a significant role in nurturing my talents, often serving as my audience for one-woman shows and comedy routines.
My roller coaster ride into the entertainment industry began with local theater productions and appearances in my parents’ films. My proximity to greatness, combined with my own determination to find my own path, led me to countless background extra work until I was offered the audition that changed my trajectory, a recurring role on the iconic TV series “Dawson’s Creek.” This experience introduced me to mainstream entertainment and solidified my passion for storytelling.
However, my path had its share of twists and turns. After “Dawson’s Creek,” I continued pursuing acting while completing my degree in Sociology. My multifaceted interests eventually led me to aesthetics, where I merged my love for beauty with my creative pursuits, working as a makeup artist on commercials and independent films.
It was during the tumultuous period of the HB2 controversy in North Carolina that I made a pivotal career shift. Recognizing the power of podcasting as a medium for authentic storytelling, I decided to launch my own show, “The E-Spot with Camille.” This bold move marked the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey.
“The E-Spot with Camille Kauer” quickly gained traction and acclaim, earning me several awards and a global audience. My unique approach to podcasting, influenced by my background in acting, resonated with listeners who appreciated my engaging and authentic storytelling style. I coined the phrase “Podcast Like An Actor!” to inspire others to follow suit. I’ve been lucky enough to speak at countless universities and Podcast events to promote, Podcast Like an Actor, encouraging others to share their journey and get involved in podcasting.
In essence, my journey from a creative upbringing to diverse experiences in the entertainment industry led me to the world of podcasting and entrepreneurship. My ability to weave storytelling with my passions for beauty and sociology created a unique niche, and my success is a testament to my unwavering dedication and innovative thinking. I continue to inspire and entertain through my podcast, all while making a lasting impact in the entertainment world.
Camille, 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’m passionate about giving a voice to those often overlooked in the beauty and entertainment industry. My journey began when I saw the immense potential in individuals who faced obstacles due to a lack of opportunities or financial support. I’m dedicated to showcasing their talent and determination.
In my industry, I provide a podcast for aspiring artists and beauty enthusiasts to shine and hear from the best in the industry to share how they were able to get over their doubts. I offer resources and share opportunities to help them overcome challenges, including doubts to imposter syndrome. Through my podcast and coaching, I aim to solve the problem of underrepresentation by amplifying diverse voices.
What sets me apart is my commitment to encouraging talent regardless of background or financial means. I believe that with the right encouragement, talent, and unwavering determination, anyone can achieve their dreams in this competitive and often expensive industry. I take pride in fostering a community that supports and uplifts each other.
I want potential clients, followers, and listeners to know that my brand is about empowerment, resilience, and creativity. I celebrate the journey, not just the destination. Together, we’re proving that the power of “no” can propel us to new heights and that dreams are always worth pursuing.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
How to make a living as a creative, but in all seriousness in my creative journey, I’ve certainly discovered that the path can be unique for each person. I understand that not everyone has equal access to resources. It’s essential to trust the process, be empathetic to others’ challenges, and avoid comparing your journey to theirs. Success is a personal definition, and for me, it’s about empowering people through stories and creative expression. While earlier knowledge of certain financial resources would have been beneficial, I also recognize that the journey itself can be a rewarding teacher, and having the time to become an expert at your craft and business isn’t overnight for anyone.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
It is impossible in today’s digital landscape, to not have a strategic utilization of social media platforms. Social media plays a pivotal role in the success of creative endeavors like podcasting. Here’s a concise perspective on why building an audience through Instagram Live, LinkedIn connections, and Facebook groups is crucial:
Instagram Live: Going live on Instagram provides a real-time, interactive platform to engage with your audience. Creatives understand the value of immediate feedback and networking. Live sessions foster a sense of authenticity and allow for direct Q&A, enhancing your brand’s credibility and building a loyal following.
LinkedIn Connections: LinkedIn is the hub for professional networking. Connecting with relevant guests on LinkedIn not only showcases your commitment to quality content but also opens doors for collaboration and cross-promotion.the right individuals recognize the importance of strategic partnerships and the potential for exponential growth that comes with it.
Facebook Groups: Building a community of creatives within Facebook groups offers a controlled environment for fostering meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing. It demonstrates your dedication to nurturing a niche audience and positions you as a thought leader. Content creators, artists, and industry professionals appreciate the power of niche communities in driving engagement and expertise.
In summary, leveraging Instagram Live, LinkedIn connections, and Facebook groups is a strategic approach that aligns with my principles of networking, collaboration, and community building. It not only helps in audience expansion but also strengthens your podcast’s brand and credibility beyond your immediate zip code and builds a discerning global audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://camillekauer.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealcamillekauer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealCamilleKauer
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealcamillekauer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/camillekauer
Image Credits
Pink Photos courtesy of Charles & Colvard All others by Terrence Jones Photography or my private collection.