We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Frank Oakley III. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Frank below.
Hi Frank, 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?
I’ve learned to be effective and successful in the room (despite being the only one there who looks like me) by embracing who I am. Outside of the neighborhood I grew up in, I’ve worked in predominantly white spaces. At the beginning of my acting and theatre journey, I tended to “tone down” who I was—not just trying not to be “too Black” in certain spaces, but, more importantly (and arguably more harmfully), my personality.
I’m naturally a goofy and silly dude, and for years I tried to keep that side of me hidden, which led me down a road of misplaced identity. But once I stopped caring about how I talked or sounded—and stopped hiding my natural, goofy self—that’s when I started discovering who I am and how to own whatever space I’m in, while still respecting others in that space.
No matter what you do in life or what your profession is, once you find and embrace who you are, that’s when you’ll be positioned for success. And knowing how to define success for yourself will not only save you time, trouble, and money, but ultimately help you live a life you’re pleased with and proud of—not one dictated by trends, culture, or society.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In a bit of a nutshell — I’m an actor and creator who strives to create (or be part of) films, TV shows, and plays that inspire change, ignite a fire for action, and motivate the pursuit of what people are passionate about. I want to be part of, or collaborate on, projects that transcend race and culture, and that are relatable on a universal level — all while being entertaining. (Sometimes I think we forget it’s called the entertainment industry!)
What makes me so committed to this is my love for media and storytelling, and being someone who has both seen and participated in projects that do exactly that. I love, value, and wish to be part of a heartfelt biopic portrayal just as much as I love, value, and wish to star in a live-action remake of The Incredibles — as Frozone, of course. Both hold, or at least should hold, value and importance for their intended audiences.
Shameless plug: I have an awesome Christmas comedy premiering in theaters nationwide on November 7th called “All is Merry & Bright”. Go check it out if you can!: https://www.merryandbright.movie/about
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?
1. Know your boundaries and stand by them. It’s so important to discover what your “no’s” are — and to remember that it’s okay if they change over time. 2. Have a life outside of your job, occupation, or career. You can bring so much more to the table when you find meaning beyond your work — especially if that table is ever abruptly demolished. The pandemic and strikes taught me that.
3. Don’t put your life on hold for your career or job. That doesn’t mean neglect your responsibilities, but rather remember that tomorrow isn’t promised — so don’t assume you’ll always have it.
As for advice on how to deepen these over time: I’d say take inventory of yourself every few months. Take note of any changes and respond accordingly.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
I’d say the most impactful thing my parents did for me was to never be ashamed of who they are. As kids, most of us — no matter the generation — tend to be embarrassed by our parents, especially in front of our friends. And I was no different.
But looking back on my life so far, I really admire how unashamed they were of themselves. They were also some of the most present people I’ve known — especially my dad. Seeing that gave me an example of the kind of carefreeness I can have just by being myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.frankoakleythethird.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frankoakleythethird/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyoM7ApSqjYV_ZW4vNwuHEg?view_as=subscriber
- Other: All is Merry & Bright (in theatres NOV. 7th): https://www.merryandbright.movie/about
Image Credits
Knock, Knock – Casey Gardner Ford
Chad Erichsen – Erichsen Photography ATL
