We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nina Boski. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nina below.
Nina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Is there a historical figure you look up to? Who are they and what lessons or values have you learned from them?
Lessons Learned from the Hollywood Legend: Marilyn Monroe
Whether you are 6 or 96, everyone knows the name Marilyn Monroe. My company, LifeBites Global, is a lifestyle and media company, whose main mission is to help people and audiences transform and be inspired in life, business, and media. In producing three projects around Marilyn Monroe, a thriller noir, that blends facts and fiction, a TV docuseries about the icon’s mental health and addiction challenges, and the dramatic and investigative podcast “Behind the Icon”, delving into the complexities of Marilyn Monroe has been both eye-opening and soulful. Beyond the headlines and paparazzi shots, Marilyn’s legacy serves as a beacon – a reminder of the strength of vulnerability, the importance of authenticity, and the boundless possibilities that lie in every challenge.
Marilyn Monroe, a name synonymous with beauty, tragedy, and the enchantment of classic Hollywood. As a seasoned media executive and storyteller based out of the glamorous realms of Los Angeles, diving deep into the essence of Marilyn for my projects, I’ve come to unearth truths that might surprise many. Beyond the glitz, glamor, and tragic end, Marilyn was a multifaceted icon, embodying lessons and inspirations we can all learn from.
1. Childlike Vulnerability – Her Magnetism
Marilyn’s endearing childlike vulnerability wasn’t just an act. It was a part of who she was. This genuine innocence allowed audiences globally to connect deeply with her. It was this unfeigned, soulful charm that separated her from her peers and still attracts fans of all ages. She taught us the power of authenticity in resonance. Marilyn Monroe’s essence was a magnetic blend of childlike innocence and raw vulnerability. In interviews, she displayed a genuine curiosity, approaching subjects with a child’s wonder, paired with an unfiltered emotion that laid her heart bare for all to see. Whether talking about love, dreams, or disappointments, she spoke with palpable joy, sadness, and an earnest desire to be understood. Marilyn’s playful mannerisms, like her infectious laughter and the twinkling spontaneity in her eyes, were juxtaposed against the backdrop of the glamorous Hollywood starlet image. Yet, it was her candid openness about her aspirations and struggles, from dreams of true love to challenges in Hollywood, that truly unveiled the human behind the icon.
2. That Marilyn Twinkle – Charisma Onscreen
Marilyn Monroe was a dazzling force on screen, her charisma palpable in every role she undertook. In “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” her iconic rendition of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” showcased her playful glances and vivacious energy, encapsulating that renowned “Marilyn twinkle.” Her portrayal of Sugar Kane in “Some Like It Hot” was a masterclass in allure, especially during her memorable “I Wanna Be Loved By You” performance. The iconic white dress scene in “The Seven Year Itch” highlighted her radiant energy and infectious giggle, while “Bus Stop” offered a deeper look into her vulnerability combined with endearing innocence. In “Niagara,” she commanded the screen with her sultry looks and deliberate movements, epitomizing the femme fatale. Yet, it was her charmingly amusing role as Pola in “How to Marry a Millionaire,” a beautiful model navigating the world without her glasses, that further solidified her versatility. Marilyn’s unique blend of sensuality, humor, vulnerability, and that unmistakable twinkle solidified her place in Hollywood’s pantheon of legends
3. Overcoming Mountains of Odds
Diving into her life is a journey through a series of harrowing tales. Abandoned by her mentally unstable mother, she spent her early years shuffling between foster homes and even a short stint at an orphanage. She was both physically and sexually abused as a child. As an adult, she faced miscarriages, failed marriages, and the daunting pressures of Hollywood. But she rose, each time higher than before, establishing herself as a silver screen legend. Her resilience is a testament to the human spirit. This was all overcome for many years even with an acute mental illness and addiction problems. Marilyn Monroe, the luminescent Hollywood icon, grappled with a myriad of mental health challenges throughout her life, shadows that often contrasted starkly with her radiant on-screen persona. Episodes of profound depression were frequently punctuated by intense sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and lethargy. Anxiety gripped her, stemming from her deep-rooted insecurities about her career, image, and tumultuous personal relationships. Tragically, she turned to sleeping pills, and barbiturates, leading to a debilitating substance dependency. Her doctors documented that she has bipolar disorder, characterized by oscillating moods from euphoria to despair. A dark cloud that loomed over her was the mental health struggles of her mother, Gladys, which not only heightened Monroe’s anxieties but also served as a constant, harrowing reminder of the fragility of the human psyche. These anxieties were further intensified by the traumatic events of her childhood, filled with neglect, instability, and abuse. By today’s standards, she might have also been diagnosed with Borderline Personality disorder but that mental health issues was not recognized until the 1980’s in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III). BPD is characterized by patterns of varying moods, self-image, and behavior, and it often results in impulsive actions, problems in relationships, and self-worth issues.
4. Brains Behind the Beauty
Here’s where most get it wrong – Marilyn was no “dumb blonde.” At the time of her death, she owned over 400 books, ranging from literature to poetry, history, and even philosophy. From the narratives of James Joyce’s “Ulysses” to the existential ruminations of Friedrich Nietzsche, she exhibited an intellectual curiosity that went far beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Her library boasted classics like “The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway, a poignant exploration of the disillusioned post-World War I generation, and the witty and often satirical writings of Oscar Wilde, including his poems and fairy tales that delved into human desires, emotions, and societal critiques. Furthering her interest in the interplay of mind and body, Marilyn was drawn to “The Thinking Body” by Mabel Elsworth Todd, an insightful examination of body mechanics and its relationship with thought. This was especially relevant to her, given the emphasis on body language in her profession. Additionally, her readings on spirituality and Eastern philosophies hinted at a quest for deeper understanding and connection. Reports even suggest an IQ soaring over 130, debunking myths about her intellect. While her IQ remains a mystery, what’s evident is that Marilyn was much more than the stereotype she often played on screen. She was a complex individual with a deep love for learning and a profound understanding of her craft and the world around her. So, whether or not she was a certified genius, Marilyn certainly had a brilliance that shone brightly in Hollywood and beyond. She was also known to hang out with friends like Carl Sanburg and Norman Rosten, both famous poets and writers.
5. Trailblazing Entrepreneur
In an era when women were relegated to the roles of homemakers, Marilyn was a visionary. Alongside powerhouses like Lucille Ball and Mary Pickford, she co-founded her own production company. This wasn’t just a business move; it was a statement. Marilyn was breaking glass ceilings in the ’50s, challenging stereotypes, and reshaping the narrative for women in Hollywood. Marilyn Monroe was a trailblazer in many ways, and her venture into entrepreneurship showcased her astuteness in recognizing her brand value. In 1955, Marilyn took a bold step in the entertainment industry by co-founding her own independent film production company called Marilyn Monroe Productions (MMP). This move was in response to her dissatisfaction with the roles Hollywood studios were offering her, and her desire to have more control over her career. By starting MMP, Marilyn sought creative control over her projects, wanting to produce films that resonated with her and reflected the roles she desired. Her decision to become an entrepreneur was groundbreaking at a time when actors, especially women, rarely asserted such autonomy over their careers. One of the first films produced under MMP was “The Prince and the Showgirl” (1957), in which she co-starred with Laurence Olivier. In addition to her venture into film production, Marilyn was incredibly savvy about her brand image. She understood the power of her persona and carefully curated it, both on and off the screen. She was among the first actresses to leverage her image, fame, and personal brand into business opportunities, pioneering a path that many celebrities would follow in subsequent decades. Marilyn’s efforts as an entrepreneur, combined with her keen understanding of her brand image, solidify her status as not just a Hollywood icon, but also as a forward-thinking businesswoman of her era.
6. The Humanitarian:
Behind the glittering facade of Hollywood, Marilyn’s heart resonated with compassion. She was an advocate for those who suffered, using her platform to discuss issues like childhood physical and sexual abuse – subjects that were largely taboo in her era. Monroe wasn’t one to sit quietly in the shadows when she saw injustice. Whether it was championing animal rights or civil rights, she often found herself locking horns with Hollywood moguls to stand up for what she believed in. As an example of this, aside from her glitz and glamour, Marilyn was a woman of principle, especially when it came to standing up against racial discrimination. A notable instance occurred during the production of “Some Like It Hot.” Marilyn’s travel maid, a person of color, was denied access to the hotel where the cast and crew were staying. Unfazed by the hotel’s discriminatory policies and not one to let injustice slide, Marilyn confronted the production manager. She made it unequivocally clear: if her travel maid wasn’t allowed to stay, they wouldn’t be seeing Marilyn on set either. Her bold stance not only underscored her commitment to fighting prejudice but also showcased her deep loyalty to those around her. In an industry and era rife with racial bias, Marilyn’s stand was both brave and impactful. She was truly a luminary, both on-screen and off!
7. Marilyn’s Mastery of her Craft:
Before her immersion into the Method with Lee Strasberg, Marilyn’s primary acting coach was the formidable Natasha Lytess. Their partnership lasted for about eight years, from the late 1940s into the mid-1950s, during which Natasha played an instrumental role in sculpting Marilyn’s raw talent into the captivating screen presence we came to adore. Marilyn passionately threw herself into acting, singing, and dancing lessons, understanding that talent alone doesn’t make a legend; it’s the sweat, the grind, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. She studied under Lee Strasberg at the famed Actors Studio in New York, absorbing the Method Acting techniques that sought to bring out the most genuine emotions in performances. Lee once said, “I have worked with hundreds of actors and actresses, and there are only two that stand out way above the rest. Number one is Marlon Brando, and the second is Marilyn Monroe.”
8. Tragedy and Truth to Transformation:
In a world rife with rumors, conspiracy theories, and sensational stories, distinguishing fact from fiction in Marilyn’s life is a daunting task. Yet, it’s essential to sift through over six decades of cultural context to discern the truths of her life from the exaggerated tales. Marilyn’s story is a microcosm of the macrocosm that is happening in the news today. Her story is a real example of how we’re told outlandish rumors and theories without facts over the decades, that over time, we just call them THE TRUTH whether or not they can be substantiated or not. For more on these rumors, theories, and facts, listen to the Behind the Icon podcast so you can hear for yourself how 60-plus years in the investigation of Marilyn has been laced with fiction, not fact. You will hear Marilyn Monroe’s life, shrouded in glamour and mystery, has been a breeding ground for various rumors and speculations, many of which remain unverified to this day. Among the most enduring of these tales are whispers of her alleged affairs with political heavyweights, President John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert F. Kennedy. Despite the intrigue and her famously seductive rendition of “Happy Birthday” to JFK, there’s no evidence confirming these rumored liaisons. Equally enigmatic is the nature of her untimely death. While officially deemed a probable suicide, the tragic event sparked a myriad of conspiracy theories, implicating entities ranging from the CIA to organized crime, though solid proof remains elusive.
9. The Ultimate Dreamer:
Marilyn’s ability to dream big sets her apart from others who had the silver spoon handed to them. As a child, she’d gaze at the Paramount Studios tower from her orphanage, harboring dreams of stardom. Her walks down Hollywood Boulevard, where she immersed herself in films, painted a clear picture of her ambitions. Jean Harlow once filled the screen, and Marilyn aspired to that luminescence, proving dreams do come true. Marilyn Monroe’s life often intertwined with the stuff of dreams, blurring the lines between reality and her vivid imagination. One of the most touching intersections of her hopes and reality is the story involving the great Clark Gable.
Marilyn, throughout her tumultuous childhood, found solace in imagining that the legendary Clark Gable was her father. In her fantasy, the “King of Hollywood” was a protective and doting figure, a stark contrast to the father figures in her real life. This daydream was a tender escape for the young Norma Jeane.
Years later, when she ascended to the zenith of Hollywood stardom as Marilyn Monroe, the universe conspired to weave her dream into reality. She got the chance to work alongside Clark Gable in the movie “The Misfits” in 1961. There’s a heartwarming moment from this period, an iconic photograph of the two dancing together – the “King” and “Queen” of Hollywood, united in a tender dance. The image is potent, symbolizing Marilyn’s journey from a dream-filled child to a Hollywood legend, and how sometimes, dreams really do come true.
10. Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend:
The impact of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” is undeniable. Icons like Madonna, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, and Anna Nicole Smith have all drawn inspiration from Monroe’s quintessential charm. But, as many try to emulate her, it’s evident – there can only ever be one Marilyn. We will always be charmed and entertained by her beauty, charm, and ever-lasting spirit.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
At the age of 17, Nina started her career as a Disc Jockey. By the age of 21, she was a top 40 disc jockey in Los Angeles. From there, she went on to host and produce videos for cable television networks. Eventually, Nina expanded into promotions, marketing, and advertising, creating content and sponsorships for cable networks. She was employed by The Box Music Cable Network (MTV2), a division of Viacom, Inc., and became responsible for the entire West Coast sales and development of the entire entertainment business from the creation of movie segments to advertising deals.
Throughout the years, Nina Boski maintains a passion and commitment to her own personal growth and encourages others to do the same! By bridging lifestyle and entertainment, (Life-Business-Media) she started her own company, LifeBites Global, (LBG). The company has evolved to create content in media and produces short and long-form programming in media and consults for both life and business. Nina is a coauthor of two books and has two books being released in 2024, one around her media journey and the other one on emotional intelligence in business. She has also been featured on Fox and Friends, The Insider, WE, The Hallmark TV Channel, Lifetime, Fox, and CBS News. LifeBites became one of the first 5 digital TV shows on YouTube and now she creates content for several platforms, including More U, a new platform, reaching over 50 million people. Nina’s social media presence is about helping people transform their lives.
In addition, Nina has three projects around the legendary actress, Marilyn Monroe; a feature film, thriller-noir, a TV investigative docuseries, and a global, dramatic, and investigative podcast, Marilyn: Behind the Icon, bringing to light the correlation between mental illness and addiction to help millions of Americans dealing with this huge epidemic, and uses the ICON’s legacy to inspire hope and motivation to create a better life. She also has a TV reality show in development about artists and becoming a master.
Over the years, LBG has branched out into more life and business in speaking, coaching, consulting, and training. Nina is a known as transformational life-business and energy coach working with clients from all over the world. She has worked with companies ranging from small startups to Fortune 100, like Wells Fargo, Keller Williams, Compass, and Marriott Hotels, and a variety of tech companies like, Facebook (Meta) and Google.
Nina resides in both Los Angeles and Idaho, where she continues to consult and teach clients how to bring positive energy into their lives. Nina’s approach is very practical. She uses a combination of east meets west techniques. Although she is results results-oriented coach, post-COVID, being able to connect and create better balance is one of her key coaching elements. She is always motivating her clients to “slow down in order to speed up.”
Nina states, “There is a lot of power between the two cultures. One is not better than the other. It’s all about integrating and balancing your life. I find these two approaches really help my clients – By using practical methods in building your goals and dreams (west) while helping you release blocks, known as your energy centers or chakras (east), I don’t just get people talking about their dreams, I get them experiencing their best life!”
Nina is part of the prestigious Association of Transformational Leaders (ATL) that was founded by the leading personal growth leader and bestselling author, Jack Canfield, Chicken Soup of Soul series. ATL is a small group of highly qualified, individuals of significant influence in artistic, academic, social, political, corporate, and humanitarian endeavors, devoted to doing transformational work in their respective fields.
LifeBites was created to give people accessible, entertaining, and stimulating products and services to get them to “think about their lives!” LifeBites’ motto is “Take A Bite Out of Life Before Life Takes a Bite Out of You!”
Contact: [email protected]
LifeBites.com Ninaboski.com BehindtheIcon.com
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
I launched my company with capital from friends and family. People were throwing money at me as it was the wild west of the new frontier called, the “Dot.com” era. I had a business plan, but people were giving me money without any sustainable numbers. I launched my company in January 2000, filled with ambition and the promise of a digital age. However, by March 17th of that year, the unthinkable happened – the internet market crashed. Originally poised to go public and form partnerships with leading tech platforms, by May, those very platforms were folding, leading to an unforeseen turn of events by August. Faced with an unsustainable business model, I had to make the heart-wrenching decision to lay off dedicated team members. While many migrated to other dot-com ventures, for me, this wasn’t merely a business – it was my passion. Rather than abandoning my dream, I chose resilience, reinventing myself and my brand in the face of adversity. It took a few years for me to find my footing and to pivot to a side of the business that could start making a profit. Given my dream was never to go public I was listening to other professionals who I thought knew more than me, I always tell new entrepreneurs to trust their gut even if they think other people know more than them. If I had trusted my intuition, I would have started smaller and set out to grow organically instead of trying to launch a big dream that ended up crashing with the Internet craze of the early 2000s.
Have you ever had to pivot?
As part two of this story, had to pivot my business quickly in the wake of the internet market crash, I channeled my resilience and innovative spirit to reimagine my next business adventure. Recognizing the profound impact movies have on shaping life narratives, I launched my radio show, “LifeBites.” This unique venture delved into film themes, connecting them with real-life experiences. Instead of traditional reviews, the show fostered deeper connections, with celebrities, filmmakers, personal growth experts, and everyday people dissecting the emotive core of films. This fresh approach caught the attention of major movie studios, leading to collaborations where they sponsored content that went beyond mere promotion, forging emotional connections with audiences. My expertise in advertising and promotion transformed these film discussions into short interstitials, which aired on popular networks such as WE, Lifetime, Hallmark, and Oxygen.
But my evolution didn’t stop there. By 2012, I was at the forefront of the digital age, launching one of the inaugural live video shows on YouTube, broadcasted on the empowerme.TV network. Seamlessly blending entertainment and life, this show stayed on track with blending these two areas to become an entertainment and lifestyle show. Concurrently, I expanded into coaching and training, guiding individuals in both personal and professional spheres. From the ashes of the dot-com era, I successfully pivoted, solidifying my place in media, while also cultivating a thriving life and business coaching practice. This journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, vision, and unyielding passion. Today, my business is built on these three pillars – Life, Business, and Media.
Since then I have had to pivot several more times, especially when raising funds for movie projects. Navigating the intricate world of film financing has required me to adapt and reinvent my approach multiple times. The unpredictable nature of movie funding often presented challenges, especially when faced with potential investors who were either too idealistic or, unfortunately, not genuine in their intent. Securing legitimate financing for a film is no easy feat, and I’ve come to understand the prolonged timelines in the filmmaking world. Yet, when the stars align and genuine funding materializes, it paves the way for movie magic to truly unfold.
More recently, the last area that I had to pivot my business was amidst the challenges of lockdown and the COVID pandemic, many found their businesses plummeting, myself included. However, the transition to virtual coaching and training was a necessary pivot, one which had already been in motion but was suddenly thrust to the forefront. Fortuitously, my resilience and adaptability allowed me to not only retain my clientele but also expand my business in both life and professional realms. My energy approach, integrating this balance of “doing and being” in life and business, has not only set me apart but propelled me to become a coveted speaker on the interplay of balance, energy, and business leadership success. A guiding principle I often emphasize is, “It’s not just about the energy we generate, but the vitality and passion behind its creation.” Essentially, the sentiment and intention behind our actions hold greater weight than the actions themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lifebites.com/
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- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninaboski/
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