We recently connected with Ella Stichler and have shared our conversation below.
Ella, 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’ve always known that the corporate world or a desk job was never my calling. I always just felt that I was meant for something different, something more fulfilling. Finding my way to this realization, however, took time and self-discovery.
My creative journey began at the age of three when I started performing. It always came natural to me, and it wasn’t just something I did; it was something that got me out of bed every single day. Whether I was dancing in recitals, singing in musicals or at church, or simply entertaining family and friends during the holidays, I always felt at home when I was performing. Even as a child, my imagination ran wild—I would gather my friends after school to shoot little movies with our iPods or create elaborate, make-believe games that transformed our neighborhood into a stage.
In high school, I immersed myself in every artistic opportunity that came my way. I joined the broadcasting elective, producing news reports and comedic videos for the school. I was part of the choir, involved in every musical production, and participated in the drama club and dance team. It was clear that creativity wasn’t just a part of my life; it was my life.
When I got to college, the shift in perspective was eye-opening. Many saw my dreams as mere hobbies, but everything changed the moment I had the chance to work on a student film. Acting and assistant directing on that project was a pivotal experience—it was the moment I realized that what had always been a passion could, and should, become my career. I realized that what I had always known in my heart could actually become my future. I fully embraced the idea that my creative drive was not just a side passion, but the core of who I am.
But if I’m being honest, the moment I knew acting and performing were meant to be my life wasn’t some grand revelation in a classroom or on a film set—it was back in those carefree childhood days. I lived and breathed performance without even fully understanding what that would mean for me later on. I didn’t need a clear career path or label at the time; I just knew that every day was an opportunity to perform, to create, to be part of something bigger. It was woven into the fabric of who I was—the joy of being on stage, telling stories, and becoming someone else, even if just for a moment. That was my world, and looking back, I see now that I was always living my dream without even knowing it.
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?
I’m a San Diego native who’s always been immersed in creativity. I started dancing at the age of two, exploring everything from tap and jazz to hip-hop, lyrical, and ballet. By age five, I had discovered Irish dancing and became one of the youngest open champions in my region by the time I was nine.
But my passion wasn’t confined to dance alone. As I grew older, I wanted more than just lessons—I wanted to perform. When I hit middle school, I found the perfect opportunity through theater. It was a suggestion from my mom that led me to join the local theater group, CYT, where I discovered a whole new world of creative expression. Suddenly, I wasn’t just dancing—I was acting, singing, and performing, all at once. That’s when I realized that the stage was my true home, and I began to dive into every aspect of the performing arts.
After I graduated high school, I moved across the country to attend the University of Alabama, where I majored in Film and Entertainment Studies, learning the ins and outs of the film industry while also studying Communications and Advertising/Public Relations. It was there that I began to blend my passion for creative arts with practical, strategic skills.
After college, I made the move to LA to pursue acting but quickly realized I needed a stable income to support my career. That’s when I turned to freelancing in marketing, which has since become my “day job.” Today, I juggle multiple roles: managing marketing and media for a finance company, overseeing social media and content creation for two life coaches, an acting studio, and a commercial mortgage firm, and integrating podcasting and client interview videos into my projects. I thrive on the creative freedom that marketing allows me while still staying connected to my passion for performance.
In addition to my work in marketing, I’m also deeply committed to refining my craft as an actor. I’ve had the privilege of studying under exceptional artists and teachers, mastering techniques such as Meisner, Chekhov, and Stanislavski, while also honing my ability to work with the imagination. This has pushed me to take risks and explore new emotional, physical, and vocal dimensions in my performances—ultimately helping me bring more depth and authenticity to every role.
Beyond acting, singing, and dancing, I’ve also written two short films and a feature film, which I’m eager to bring to life in the future. I’m passionate about storytelling in every form, whether it’s through performance or the written word, and my goal is to continue exploring and sharing those stories with the world.
What truly sets me apart is my ability to merge my marketing expertise with my passion for storytelling. Having a background in both performance and business gives me a unique perspective on every project I take on. Whether I’m helping a client develop their brand, create compelling content, or deliver a powerful performance, I approach each task with a storyteller’s mindset, focusing on how to create meaningful connections with the audience.
I’m most proud of my ability to evolve and balance multiple passions—acting, writing, and marketing—while staying true to my creative roots. This combination allows me to approach my work with a diverse skill set and an innovative perspective, which is something I believe truly sets me apart.
If there’s one thing I want my clients and followers to know about me, it’s that I’m deeply committed to bringing my best self to every project. Whether I’m building a marketing strategy or performing on stage, my goal is always the same: to tell stories that resonate and make a lasting impact.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
When I first moved to LA at 21, I had no connections, not many friends, and no job. Breaking into the film industry as a new, non-union actor is tough, and in the beginning, I was just happy to land any opportunities. A few months in, I booked a feature film, an indie project that felt like a major win. While the work wasn’t paid, I saw it as a stepping stone—a chance to be part of something bigger, gain experience, and build my reel. I was eager, optimistic, and, frankly, a bit naïve.
From the start, the production was demanding, but I thought that was just part of the deal in indie films. As the shoot went on, though, I started to realize that things weren’t right. The contracts were confusing, we were asked to invest some of our own money, and the hours were grueling. What struck me the most were the comments that felt personally directed at me. I was told I didn’t fit the “look” they were going for, and it became clear that I was being singled out in a way that felt unfair.
Despite the mistreatment, I kept going. I told myself that this was just the way things were when you’re starting out—that every actor has to deal with these challenges. I focused on the fact that I was getting experience, even if the cost was my self-esteem. But as I heard similar complaints from other cast and crew members, I began to realize that the issues weren’t just with me—they were systemic. The more I endured, the more I saw the mistreatment for what it was.
At that moment, something shifted. I told myself I would never again work on a project that disrespected its actors like this. I learned that in this industry, I would have to stand up for myself, even when it felt uncomfortable. The experience wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly valuable. It taught me to trust my instincts, to value my worth, and to never settle for anything that compromises my dignity.
While the experience was a painful one, it helped shape my resilience and gave me the strength to keep pushing forward in a career that can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. I emerged from that experience with a stronger sense of self and a better understanding of how to navigate the challenges the industry throws at you. In a way, it was a defining moment that shaped the person and the artist I am today.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Being a creative is rewarding on so many levels—it’s not just about the work itself, but the constant evolution and fulfillment it brings. As an artist, I’m never stagnant; I’m always being challenged to explore new ideas, learn new skills, and push the boundaries of my craft. Each project, no matter the size or scope, presents an opportunity to grow. Whether it’s acting, writing, or collaborating with others, I’m constantly finding new ways to express myself and engage with the world around me.
There’s a unique sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing an idea come to life. As an actor, I get to delve into different characters and stories, using my voice, body, and emotions to connect with others. That kind of deep, personal engagement with my work allows me to grow not just as a performer but as a person. The more I step outside my comfort zone, the more rewarding the experience becomes. The thrill of diving into new roles or taking on creative challenges never fades.
Creativity also means connection. Through the work I do, I get to meet incredible people who inspire me, teach me, and challenge me. Each collaboration feels like a chance to learn something new, and each new connection enriches my perspective and fuels my creativity even more. It’s a beautiful cycle of growth and discovery that doesn’t just happen on set or during rehearsals, but carries over into every part of my life.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the flexibility it offers. My day job in marketing gives me the freedom to take on film opportunities, creating a balance that allows me to pursue both my passions. I approach each day with excitement, knowing that no two days are the same. I have the freedom to shape my own path and adapt to whatever opportunities come my way.
Ultimately, being a creative is about living a life of constant possibility. The challenges, the surprises, the connections—all of it fuels a sense of purpose and passion that’s irreplaceable. The best part is that it doesn’t feel like work at all. When I’m doing what I love, the hours fly by, and every project feels like an adventure. It’s a rare gift, and I’m incredibly grateful to be living it every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ellastichler.com
- Instagram: @ellastichlerr
- Linkedin: ellastichler
- Other: IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13591172/
Image Credits
Headshots by Joanna Degeneres