We were lucky to catch up with Maggie O’Gara recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Maggie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Overall I’m happy as a creative, but there are obviously good and bad days. I’ve had a wide range of jobs during my time as a creative to cover bills and what not, and have done some full time work here and there. It’s a weird thing because on the one hand it’s nice to have the money and stability that a full time job provides. However, it doesn’t really leave me with much time to create and pursue my creative career which is tough on me and my mental health. On the other hand, it’s been tough with having part time jobs and struggling to make ends meet but having more free time to pursue the creative work I want. It’s tough and that’s what I’ve been struggling in with most as a creative since joining the workforce after school that no one really prepares you for. So for me and I know for other it’s trial and error finding a job that can give you financial stability while also time for creativity. I’m still working this one out myself but I know for certain I don’t want to just full on give up my creative work and just have a “regular job” only. It’s not what would bring me or my creative artist joy.

Maggie, 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?

Sure, I am an actor and creative living in St. Louis, Missouri. I went to college and studied acting and moved to Chicago to study improv and comedy. I have been in shows and taking classes and trying to break into this industry since, but had a bit of a break due to the pandemic. During that time I started my small business, Maggie O Finds, where I sell vintage and upcycled clothing and accessories. The pandemic gave me the time to pursue those creative outlets while acting was a bit dry, so I rekindled my sewing and jewelry making skills. Most of what my shop is is creating things with secondhand items and giving them new, beautiful life in wearable art. Currently I am starting to balance the shop with acting again as I’m getting back into it after my hiatus and I’m really excited for the next chapter of my life.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Aw man, I feel like so many stories could answer this. I’d say just every time I hear a no or a not right now, that I kept going. Especially ones that I wanted so badly. Like getting rejected from my dream school, rejected from an agency I really wanted to sign me, or a part that I knew was perfect for me that I didn’t get. There have been countless times I have wanted to quit, and just get a regular job and be “normal.” But I know I’d be doing myself and the world a disservice by not sharing my art. Which is something that I’ve lost sight of and have been spending time reteaching myself: Keep Going.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Bringing people joy. That’s one of the reasons I gravitated toward comedic acting, but it was always something that came naturally to me. I love making people laugh and feel good, and I love that I can do that with acting and also now with the pieces I create. I love seeing people’s faces light up at markets when they see my designs, and that when they take that item home it will bring them joy every time they wear it. While I do love all aspects of acting and telling stories with real emotion and humanity, there is nothing quite like making someone smile.

Contact Info:

• Website: MaggieOFinds.com
• Instagram: @schmaggieogara
• Other: Tiktok: @schmaggieogara

Image Credits
Anna O’Gara