We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jared Withrow a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jared, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Back in my earlier days of acting I had a fellow actor friend that was cast in a local film. He had a good supporting role and informed me that they were in need of extras for several key scenes. At the time this did not appeal to me as I had been an extra in several projects and was told that it wasn’t beneficial to include this on a resume. I declined but he insisted that I get myself on that set because the people were so good to work with and it’d be a great match for me. I reluctantly agreed. Ultimately I ended up befriending a fellow extra who I assumed was also an aspiring actor but found out afterwards also directed and produced his own films. Because of our camaraderie on set he invited me to audition on another film he was involved with. We now not only have an amazing friendship but have also worked on several projects together! I was so glad to have said yes to a meaningful project because it ultimately led to many other great opportunities that may never have happened had I said no. So in my experience meaningful projects are the gift that keep giving!
Jared, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
From the time I was in grade school I had an interest in acting. I had a teacher write a note to my mother after performing a skit in class to get me into the theater. That always stayed with me even when it didn’t seem likely to pan out. But I stayed with it and have now worked on some wonderful projects with wonderful people. I continue to grow as an actor and it’s been a journey of self discovery that only continues to inform my choices. This journey of self is what I’m most proud of. Especially in a world that tries so hard to define you in so many ways. Traditionally I’ve done more family based content but have recently begun to branch out on projects with more mature themes. I’m at the place now where I’m open to anything that speaks to me and I immediately feel a connection with. If I have to do a lot of guess work I take it as a sign to move onto something else. I’m really tuning into my intuition more than ever before and I love it! As a recording artist I’m also finding a good flow. Having grown up in a somewhat musical family I’ve been drawn to music but I always wanted it to be a compliment to being an actor and not necessarily at the forefront. However I do love the creative process of songwriting and being in a studio, it’s thrilling and fulfilling much like playing a great character. They’re different but each fill a creative part of me that I love being able to express.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding thing for me is being able to express myself creatively, it brings so much meaning to my life. It’s also a therapeutic outlet in many ways. I love being able to live vicariously through another character and experience things I wouldn’t normally in my daily life. As a recording artist it’s rewarding to get an idea or a melody that’s in my head and into a completed song. Then getting to see it resonate with others is the icing and cherry on top!
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy, Ph.D., D.D. This book was a game changer for me. In summary what we think and feel on a subconscious level is what we ultimately experience in our reality. This book led me to realize a lot of thoughts and feelings I was so used to thinking and feeling that no longer served me and only held me back. Once I started shifting in this I quickly noticed things begin to change in my reality and new doors and opportunities began to open without the need to force or manipulate. I’d recommend it to anyone who’s ready and open to it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hyperfollow.com/jaredwithrow
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaredwithrow/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaredjwithrow
- Youtube: youtube.com/@withrowjared
- Other: imdb.me/jaredwithrow
Image Credits
Parker Kirchinger Crystal Creek Media JawJab Productions