Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Debbie Terrell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Debbie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us 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.

Taking a risk (while Learning the craft)

Just a few years ago, I decided to take one of the most challenging, yet fulfilling risk of my life. I resigned from the federal workforce (a second time) to pursue my passion of becoming an Actor/Model. For many years, I had been balancing my craft on a part-time basis, while working a full-time job, and being a U.S. naval officer’s wife and full-time mom of two beautiful daughters. I took a risk to focus on learning the craft and bringing my passion to life. This was a hard, somewhat stressful decision. It meant giving up a guaranteed federal income, with the hopes of replacing that income with work in the entertainment industry. Admittedly, everyone in this industry knows and understands that work can be sporadic and non-existent at times. However, I knew pursuing this career was absolutely worth the risk. I made a concerted effort to learn the craft, attend acting and modeling workshops, and leverage networking and mentoring opportunities. Looking back, judging by the success l am experiencing, it was definitely the right decision! I have been fortunate enough to work behind and in front of the camera, to include feature films, television commercials, commercial print work, and most recently being featured on a billboard. I am so thankful that I had the courage and support of my family to step out on faith and pursue my dreams. For this reason, I am forever grateful to all the people who have supported me in my career.

So, why do we all take risk? There are many reasons, but primarily to achieve a desired outcome. Taking risk should be done in a calculated manner by first understanding the potential gain, and whether it is worth the effort. In my situation, my husband and I outlined detailed plans and considered the potential pitfalls, before executing this decision. For us, this was a family decision because the entertainment industry is more than just a financial risk. There is emotional risk and vulnerability when sharing one’s personal or professional life with the public and/or social media. My advice to anyone who is considering taking a risk, that might effect a potential life-altering change;
……Understand the desired objective, ensure it is worth the risk, then plan and execute…..

Best,
Debbie

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

How did you get into this industry?

I have always had an interest in film. I wanted to know what it was like on set. So one day I decided to explore that interest. I submitted and accepted a background talent role in a television series. I was hooked from that point on and I wanted more! I was so fascinated by the team work it took to create a film. Everyone literally has to pull together to make it a success. I continue to hone my skills by taking acting classes and workshop.

What do you think sets you apart from others?

The one thing that sets me apart from others is the fact that I began my career much later in life. Although there were challenges along the way, I have had the fortitude and persistence to stick to my goals and objectives. Modeling and acting are passions for me, so they don’t feel like work. I get great satisfaction in being in a role where I can make a small difference in someone’s life. I am one of the fortunate ones that literally fell in love with my career.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my success in this business given that I am not the prototypical commercial model. I am not the standard teenage, early 20’s model, 5’10”, or a size 2. I am a seasoned, everyday real person, moderate height and build, with beautiful brown skin. My persistence landed me on catalog covers, billboards, and in major motion pictures. I am confident that I can become any character or play any role given, no matter how big or how small.

What are the main things you want potential clients/followers/fans to know about you/your brand/your work/ etc?

My personal brand is a combination of the skills and values that make me unique and memorable. Whether in front of, or behind the camera, I come to perform to the best of my ability! My brand summarizes the zest, energy, and professionalism I bring to my chosen career. My goal is to always build a strong reputation during personal interactions and in my social media presence. Having this ethos has opened many doors for me. Earlier this year, I approached Director/Writer Anthony Hackett to volunteer as an assistant on the “Hope Lives” movie set. He was so impressed with my persistence and willingness to be a part of his film, that he soon offered me the Unit Production Manager position for the film. I will also be working in the same position on his next feature film 2023.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My husband and I had two baby girls, a 3-year-old and a one-year-old. He was a Naval Officer and I also worked full-time. To say life was hectic would be an understatement. Our normal routine was characterized by juggling both jobs, drop off and pick up schedules for daycare, managing our household and spending little time with each other. This chaos had to come to a dramatic end! We realized that with work and daycare, we were only spending two to three hours per night with our girls. It was at that moment that we realized that I had to quit my job and become a stay-at-home mom. This was the first time I had ever given up my career, my status within the federal government, and a sizable annual income. But I felt there was a greater gain or outcome to be achieved. That outcome was a more stable and happy home life for my family. My husband took care of the finances which enabled us to raise our children, forgo daycare, and manage our household. This was a major unforeseen shift in my career and in our lives, but for the greater good.

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

The most rewarding part of being an artist/creative is sharing my passion with so many people, whether it be a feature film, television series, or a commercial modeling job. There is a certain joy in getting a new script or role to learn and master, then showcase it to an audience. One of my greatest pleasures is witnessing my own growth in each and every project. I give myself the gift of freedom as I make my own choices.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbieterrell_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.terrell.9

Image Credits
@Tommychungphotography tommychungphotography.com @dame_dion damonrice.com