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

Krista, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Moving from Iceland to LA was the biggest risk I’ve ever taken, and it truly changed my life. Growing up in a small town in Iceland, I always felt a strong pull toward the arts, especially acting. But pursuing a career in Hollywood felt like stepping into the unknown.

When I decided to move, I was in my early twenties, had just dopped out of business school and applied to a filmmaking school here in LA. My friends and family were supportive but also worried. They knew how competitive the industry was. I saved up enough money to cover a few months’ rent and bought a one-way ticket to Los Angeles, not knowing anyone there.

Once I arrived, the reality hit me hard. LA was overwhelming—everything was bigger, louder, and faster. I spent my first few weeks exploring the city, attending acting classes and meeting other aspiring actors. But I quickly realized how cutthroat the industry could be. I faced some rejections, and there were definitely days I questioned my decision.

However, I pushed through. I took more acting classes, networked relentlessly and was finally able to start working full-time as an actress after graduating from film school with my BFA.

Looking back, taking that risk was terrifying, but it was also the best decision I could have made. It taught me resilience, the importance of seizing opportunities, and reinforced my passion for acting. Now, every time I step onto a set, I remember that leap of faith and how far it brought me.

Krista, 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 Krista Hedins, an actress originally from Iceland who made the bold move to Los Angeles to pursue my passion for acting. From a young age, I was captivated by storytelling and the transformative power of performance. Growing up in a tight-knit community, I found myself drawn to theater and film, often dreaming of the day I could bring characters to life on screen.

In terms of my craft, I’ve trained in various acting techniques, which has helped me develop a versatile range. I’ve worked in both independent films and theater productions, exploring roles that challenge me and allow me to connect with audiences. My work often revolves around complex characters and emotional narratives, tackling themes like identity, love, and resilience.

What sets me apart is my unique background and perspective. Coming from Iceland, I bring a different cultural lens to my roles, which adds depth and authenticity. I’m committed to portraying characters that resonate with people and provoke thought, using my platform to shed light on diverse stories.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built along the way, both with fellow artists and the audiences who support our work. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my performances can evoke emotions and spark conversations.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want them to know that I’m dedicated to my craft and constantly striving to grow as an artist. I believe in the power of collaboration and creativity, and I’m always excited to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for storytelling. My journey is about authenticity and the pursuit of meaningful work, and I hope to inspire others to embrace their own paths in the creative world.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional level. Every time I step into a role, I have the opportunity to tell a story that resonates with others—whether it makes them laugh, cry, or reflect on their own experiences. It’s incredible to know that my work can evoke such strong feelings and create a shared experience with an audience.

Additionally, the creative process itself is immensely fulfilling. From diving into a character’s backstory to collaborating with other talented individuals, every step is a journey of discovery and growth. The challenges I face push me to explore new facets of myself and my craft, which is both exhilarating and rewarding.

Ultimately, it’s about making an impact. Whether through film, theater, or any other medium, being able to contribute to conversations about life, identity, and the human experience is what drives me. That sense of purpose and connection is what makes being an artist truly meaningful.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Absolutely—there’s a lot about the creative journey that can be difficult for non-creatives to fully grasp, especially when it comes to the emotional and mental toll that comes with it. One of the biggest struggles that I think outsiders might not fully understand is the constant uncertainty and rejection that comes with being an actor, or really any artist. It’s not just about talent; it’s about timing, the right fit, and often just sheer luck. You can pour your heart and soul into an audition, or a project, and still not get the role—or you might land something, and it might not end up being what you expected. The highs are incredible, but the lows can feel very isolating.

Another challenge is the pressure to constantly prove yourself. As an actor, you’re always working to refine your craft, find new opportunities, and create a name for yourself, often without much external validation along the way. It’s an industry built on comparison—you’re constantly measuring yourself against other actors, and sometimes that can lead to self-doubt. People may not realize how mentally taxing it can be to remain grounded, stay focused on your own growth, and not get lost in what everyone else is doing.

But, on the flip side, there’s also a certain beauty in this journey. What non-creatives might not fully understand is that, even through the struggles and rejections, there’s a deep sense of purpose that comes with being an artist. You keep going because you love what you do, because there’s nothing else quite like the feeling of stepping into a character, or telling a story that makes people feel something. It’s a labor of love, even when the road is tough.

So, for anyone on this journey—or anyone considering it—my biggest piece of advice is to trust in the process, embrace the ups and downs, and remember that the work itself is where the true reward lies. The external recognition is just a small part of it. The real value is in the work, the personal growth, and the connections you create along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kristahedins.godaddysites.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristahedinsss/