We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Debi Bradshaw a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Debi, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
It’s a lifelong journey and I wouldn’t say I’m completely over it. I have good days and bad days but now, when something doesn’t turn out the way I envisioned, I don’t beat myself up like I did when I was younger. I believe age helps as well as being in tune with who you are. I realize I am fortunate to have a creative spirit and now I can share that without worrying about the validation. Not that I don’t enjoy it! Believe me, when you do stand up, you get the instant feed back on whether someone digs your stuff or not. But, everyone has different tastes and views. If you feel confident and shine your light, your message will too.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
When I moved to Los Angeles from the Midwest, I only wanted to pursue an acting career. But, while living here for twenty plus years, I’ve learned that it’s not a direct route. Every one has a unique path. I worked in commercials for the most part and performed in improv and sketch comedy groups affiliated with Improv Olympic and Second City. When I’m creating is when I’m happiest and most confident. I found stand up after I had my son and this led to writing screenplays and directing. I’ve achieved some success in both the film festival world and screenplay contests, with my projects being nominated for awards and winning some too. Recently, I went back to acting class and am studying with a wonderful, kind and supportive teacher named Gregg Binkley. (his book just came out on Amazon,btw!) I’m trying to figure out how to balance class, stand up, auditioning and planning a bar mitzvah. It’s a busy time! But, no complaints;.
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?
Perseverance, integrity and the ability to stay positive. I have a sense of hope that enables me to go about this life and look forward to what’s next. Maybe it’s because I’m a Mom and I want my child to see that there is so much in this world that is noise, when you can look inside and find the quiet, you’ve reached home. Home is right here, in our heart. We are currently living with great division and uncertainty but one thing is for sure, you always have love. If you have love for yourself you will love others. I want to enjoy my life and that means making mistakes and failing. Failing is a gift. It teaches us to be resilient, to have patience and to try again! I’m also a Libra and I suffer when life is out of balance. I’m constantly seeking this and try and instill it in others. During the pandemic, I had some pretty extreme anxiety to the point where I was dealing with panic attacks on a daily basis. I tried yoga, diet changes, meditation, therapy and nothing was working. Finally with the gentle persuasion of my dear friend Jackie, I tried Zoloft and it basically changed me for the better. I had no idea how much my brain was tricking me into thinking the worst and the worst was coming. Now, I feel normal again and look forward to to each day with excitement and joy. Medication isn’t for everyone and again, I believe it is a balance of everything, but I am grateful for what I have. And Coke Zero, which has gotten me through as well.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
My number one obstacle is getting in my own way. In the past, I would often berate myself for not doing enough or achieving as much as my peers/friends. I would be down on myself and replay it over and over in my head when I would blow an audition or a comedy set. Now, I let it go. I’m a big fan of Brene Brown and one quote I adore says “Let go of who you think you are supposed to be; embrace who you are. This is a discovery I make every day.
I try and do yoga often to ground myself or walk outside. It’s better than eating a bunch of peanut butter sandwich crackers. But, I started with 10 minutes a day. Everyone has 10 minutes. I love @yogawithkassandra. She is so beautiful and gentle with a cat by her side. It’s very nourishing. I think we are often hardest on ourselves and I’m working on not being so self critical. I’m also so thankful for my sweet and loving husband, Sean, of almost 30 years who continues to inspire and adore me and often joins me when I’m eating those peanut butter sandwich crackers. I am a lucky lady.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hiyadb.com
- Instagram: hiyadb
- Facebook: debibradshaw
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-kd_NzuTnxqf2rM-vi7tQA
Image Credits
Brian Parillo
