Meet Richard Tate

 

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

Hi Richard, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Growing up in a small town outside Eugene, Oregon, I was often the only one in the room who looked like me. As a biracial individual with a Black father and white mother, I was raised by my white mother and had no connection to my Black side or that culture. This left me in a unique position, where I wasn’t fully accepted by either side—my Black friends didn’t see me as Black enough, and I was never truly accepted as white by my white friends.

This struggle with identity shaped much of my early life. I learned to adapt and blend in wherever I was, often moving between different social circles that never mixed. What I now recognize as code-switching became one of my greatest strengths. It allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life, and I learned to mirror their language, interests, and mannerisms.

Acting, which I discovered in 2021, became the most authentic expression of who I am. It’s where I can truly be myself, drawing on a lifetime of observing and adapting to those around me. My ability to code-switch, to be a chameleon in different environments, has not only made me effective but has also become an integral part of my success in the acting world. In every room, regardless of who’s there, I focus on connecting with others by being genuinely interested in their stories and perspectives. This has allowed me to thrive even when I’m the only one who looks like me.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

Today, I’m deeply immersed in the world of acting, both in commercial projects and film. Beyond that, I also have a passion for sketch comedy and improv performing regularly with The Neighborhood Comedy Theater in Mesa, Arizona. It’s an environment that constantly challenges me and allows me to keep my comedic instincts sharp.

I have several exciting projects on the horizon, including a supporting role in the film *Riley* and leading roles in *That Day on 101st Street* and *Vestige*. Each of these characters has given me the opportunity to bring something unique and authentic to the screen, and I’m proud of the honest portrayal I’m able to deliver.

What truly drives me is the relentless pursuit of excellence in my craft. Ever since I fell in love with acting, I’ve committed myself to pushing my limits, honing my skills, and striving for a personal version of perfection. I believe that this dedication is evident in every performance I give, and it’s what sets me apart. I’m focused on continuous growth and won’t stop until I’ve reached the level of mastery that I know I’m capable of.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are:

1. **Grit** – Growing up with very little in terms of money or prospects meant I had to rely on grit to carve out a path for myself. It’s about pushing through, no matter how tough things get.

2. **Determination** – This quality has driven me to keep striving for more, even when the odds were against me. It’s what has allowed me to gain more through sheer willpower.

3. **Refusal to Fail** – I’ve learned to thrive even when I’ve had nothing. No matter what I might lose, I’m not afraid because I know how to overcome challenges and keep moving forward.

For anyone early in their journey, my advice is simple: embrace the identity you’re striving for. If you want to be an actor, act whenever you can—every chance you get. If you perform comedy, then you’re a comedian. If you write a book, you’re a novelist. It’s about doing what you love and fully committing to the version of yourself that you want to be. Let your passion and persistence define you, and don’t let anyone else tell you who you are or what you’re capable of achieving.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is someone who is deeply committed to their vision and won’t let anything stand in their way. I’m passionate about collaborating with creators who are driven, dedicated, and focused on bringing their ideas to life with the same level of intensity that I bring to my craft.

I’m also looking for clients who want to tell their story in a way that’s truly unique—someone who understands that my life experiences, training, and dedication can offer a distinct perspective. If you’re seeking someone who can bring authenticity and depth to your project, I’m ready to help make that happen.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Vivid Zeal, Xander Martin, and  Brittany Krempasky

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