We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Emilio Lann a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Emilio, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
For the longest time, I was pretty scared of stepping out of my comfort zone. I mean, I used to be afraid of judgment, of disappointment, of someone labeling me as a failure. And that fear kept me from taking any real risks at all, even from when I was a kid. I just didn’t realize how much that was holding me back.
But then, about four years ago, I was dating someone who was an accountant but also a really spiritual, energy-vibe kind of person. And one day, we were just talking about business stuff—totally practical on the surface. But she said something that hit me on a whole different level. She told me, “Remember, the higher the risk, the higher the return.” And for whatever reason, it clicked. It wasn’t just business advice; it was life advice, It reprogrammed my entire mindset in that instant somehow.
From that moment on, I started seeing that every time I took a risk—especially when I was being authentic and true to myself—that’s when the best opportunities opened up. Even looking back in time that’s when I got the most genuine responses from people, the most meaningful successes, and all these little doors started opening. So now I’ve kind of trained myself that when I feel that hesitation, I just lean in and take the leap. And that’s made all the difference.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Over the past two years in LA, after building my acting foundation back in Costa Rica—doing everything from TV to short films to commercials—I earned a scholarship at the Stella Adler Art of Acting Studio. Now, as I’m approaching graduation in December, I’ve already had the chance to perform in a bilingual Romeo and Juliet and jump into some really fun projects like an absurd comedy short film. I’m also putting together a showcase piece where I get to play a bit of a psycho villain character—just to keep things interesting!
On top of that, I’m expanding my toolkit: drumming, singing lessons, and even picking up a bit of Portuguese and Italian, plus some stage combat training. But beyond all that, I really love getting to know more people in the business, learning from their experiences, and sharing my own. I think that’s how we all grow together.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Risk-taking was a big one—from moving to a different location to proposing unconventional ideas to directors while creating characters.
I am always ready to have fun, laugh, try new things, and motivate my team members to be open to feedback and collaborate for the overall health of the project.
Resilience and adaptability are key; change is the only consistent thing in life, and the better you adapt to it, the more opportunities the present will offer you.
My advice: Embrace all new ideas, watch others perform their magic, absorb every new tool you can, and be ready to apply them through your own unique method—one that only you can develop and that won’t be taught in any class.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
The Alchemist by Paulo Cohelo.
Follow Your Personal Legend:
Everyone has a unique purpose or “Personal Legend” in life.
True fulfillment comes from pursuing your dreams, no matter how difficult the journey.
The Universe Supports You:
When you truly commit to your dreams, the universe conspires to help you.
Opportunities, coincidences, and “signs” appear to guide you if you remain attentive.
Overcoming Fear is Essential:
Fear of failure or the unknown is the biggest obstacle to achieving your dreams.
Courage to take risks is necessary for growth and discovery.
Value the Journey, Not Just the Destination:
Life’s lessons, personal growth, and experiences along the way are as important as achieving the goal.
The journey teaches you about love, perseverance, and self-discovery.
Listen to Your Heart:
Your intuition and feelings can guide you when logic or fear might hold you back.
Trusting your heart connects you to your deepest desires and to the spiritual flow of life.
Everything is Interconnected:
All things in the world—people, nature, events—are connected.
Recognizing these connections helps you read omens and signs, and make wiser decisions.
The True Treasure is Often Within:
The literal treasure is less important than what you learn about yourself along the way.
Personal growth, self-awareness, and fulfillment are the real rewards.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emiliolann/
Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/zaragoza.photo/
https://www.instagram.com/joeysnap71/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
