We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mandy June Turpin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mandy June below.

Mandy June , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Showing up. I think it’s the most important thing anyone can do. Talk less and listen more. I realized pretty early on if you pay attention to those who have been there longer than you, there is always something to learn; good or bad. Work ethic is essential. The harder you work, the luckier you are, and that’s the truth. Yes, you will meet people whose journey to “success” was shorter than most, but everyone has a different journey. You can’t compare yourself to others. And truly, the only obstacle is fear of making mistakes. But as we all know, and sometimes forget, mistakes are really just step towards success.

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’ve been an actor for a long time. I was fortunate enough to work and make a living. I was grateful for the opportunities and people I met. But I knew I wanted to do more. I started writing, producing and directing. It was very fulfilling. I said yes to as many projects as I could which led to more opportunities and more relationships. I have realized there are no set rules on how to “be” an actor/director/writer/producer. What I have learned is I will make mistakes, I will succeed, I will wake up some days and think, “what the hell am I doing” but I will never give up. I think that is the secret, or at least it is for me.

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

Working with other creative people. I’ve been blessed to have a lot of creative friends in my life. Painters, writers, photographers, singers, musicians and I’m always in awe of how they put their hearts and souls into their art. And how people respond to what they share and create.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Doubting myself. Everyone will always have an opinion on what you do or what you create. Do it anyway. Listen to the critics but know at the end of the day, you did your best. You’re a good person and there is a piece of “art” out there that you help to create. And if it brings joy to just one person, than you have done your job.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Mandyjuneturpin