Feature story in Shoutout LA

We had the good fortune of connecting with Wendy Braun and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Wendy, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I think my success as an actress has definitely come from mastering the fine art of dealing with rejection, frustration + failure. Whether you’re an actor or an entrepreneur, learning how to handle all of that without letting it devastate you, define you or defeat you is what ultimately determines your success. The more I was told “no,” the more I found ways to tell myself “yes,” and to just keep going. As the owner and the founder of ActorInspiration.com, I think what has helped me to succeed is the combination of my years of experience in this industry along with my passion for inspiring others, as well as my willingness to be vulnerable while also remaining eternally open to my own personal growth. Speaking all over the world has made me realize that our challenges as creative artists are quite universal.

 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been working as an actress in Hollywood for over 2 decades. Most recently, I’m back recurring for my 3rd season on Netflix’s comedy series, “Atypical”, as Kathy, (the uptight but well-intentioned autism parent support group leader and a friend of Jennifer Jason Leigh’s). Up next, I’m starring in a soon-to-be released comedy feature film with Danny Trejo. I also do a lot of voice-over work in commercials and animation. What also lights me up has been sharing all I’ve learned along the way to help uplift and inspire other creative warriors. As the CEO and founder of ActorInspiration.com, I provide simple strategies + empowering tools that have now helped thousands of creatives overcome obstacles + create breakthrough success, all while living a more joy-filled life. It’s been so fulfilling to not only achieve my own dreams, but to also help artists all over the globe to achieve theirs. I’m very thankful for all of it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d definitely start at the beach and rent bikes in Santa Monica,, stop at the Santa Monica Pier, and then a drive up the Pacific Coast Highway. A day at Zuma Beach and pizza at D’Amores in Malibu is essential or a Sunday brunch at Paradise Cove. Can’t miss a good hike up Runyon Canyon and sushi at Sugarfish. In the winter, I’d say a snowboard/ski weekend in Mammoth is well-worth the drive. From Malibu to Mammoth, the great thing about LA is you can do it all.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve had so many amazing mentors along the way, starting with my own late parents who encouraged me to “do what you love and the money will follow.” I’m so grateful I listened to that advice and followed my heart, even when there were naysayers along the way. It’s funny looking back, because those who doubted me also simultaneously lit a fire within me to keep going. In fact, one of the last messages my late father left on my answering machine when I had just moved to LA was, “Keep going, sunshine,” and even though that was over 20 years ago, it has stayed with me all these years and has helped me to become the creative warrior I am today. My best advice: Ignore the critics, follow your heart and keep going. I’d also like to give a shoutout to my amazing husband, Josh Cox, who supports my every dream, and helps me to balance career and family (including our two exuberantly active young boys) with humor, love and joy.