I recently went one-on-one with Christy Cashman. Christy is an actress, author, and producer who has appeared in more than twenty films, including American Hustle, Joy, The Women, Ted 2, and The Forger. Christy is also the founder of the nonprofit YouthINK and is working on her second novel, Beulah.
Adam: Thanks again for taking the time to share your advice. First things first, though, I am sure readers would love to learn more about you. How did you get here? What experiences, failures, setbacks, or challenges have been most instrumental to your growth?
Christy: I’m an author and mother with a background in film including producing, acting, and screenplay writing, which actually led me down the path to writing my first novel. Alongside my creative passions, I’m on the board of a couple of literary organizations and engaged in various causes I care deeply about. My debut novel, The Truth About Horses, released in August 2023, has garnered heartfelt praise from a wide range of readers, literary circles, and the equestrian community. I’ve written two children’s books: The Not-So-Average Monkey of Kilkea Castle and Petri’s Next Things, both inspired by the true story of a heroic monkey who resided in that historic Irish castle. I wish I had trusted my instincts as a writer earlier and not allowed myself to be distracted by other pursuits that led me to doubt my voice.
Adam: In your experience, what are the common qualities among those who have been able to enjoy success in the entertainment industry? What advice do you have for those either trying to break in or advance?
Christy: Consistency and dedication to your art form. Grit, tenacity, and perseverance don’t hurt either. As for practical steps, I’ve learned to prioritize carving out dedicated time for writing, treating it not as a luxury but as a professional commitment that demands scheduling. After all, nothing substantial can be achieved without allocating the necessary time and attention to the task at hand. And I think that’s true for actors, producers, screenwriters, and everything in between.
Adam: What are the best lessons you have learned through your career in entertainment that are applicable to those who will never earn a living in front of or behind the camera?
Christy: Artistry comes in many forms. The most rewarding aspect of being creative is when my themes resonate with my readers. It gives me a sense of purpose and the most fulfilling part of being creative lies in the paths it opens for self-expression, growth, impact, and connection. The deepest sense of fulfillment arises when something I’ve created deeply connects with a reader. I embrace the idea that I don’t hold onto a specific traditional degree. So I don’t really feel like I’m much of an Authority on anything. I think the moment you start to see yourself as an authority, you stop being curious. While this may be perceived as a weakness by some, I see it as my superpower. Remaining curious throughout the unpredictable journey of creativity is one of life’s biggest rewards in my opinion.
Adam: What do you hope readers take away from your new book?
Christy: I hope readers experience what I have always experienced when reading my favorite novels. I feel books are a way to navigate life without feeling too exposed. In life, our feelings are too raw and it feels dangerous to be vulnerable. Great novels allow us to feel and experience vulnerability in a safe place. Books taught me that being an awkward feeling person is part of the experience of life. For me, the most powerful thing that stories provide is the fact that no one really feels like they fit in all the time. Even the most confident-seeming person can feel like a fish out of water and it’s what we do with that feeling that matters. Do we fight? Lash out? Or do we attempt to connect? No one has it all figured out, and that’s what this whole, crazy existence is about. A book offers a perspective that makes me see my world just a little more clearly. When I find relatable characters in books, I feel comforted because it makes me realize that no one is all good and no one is all bad. We are flawed and beautiful all at once, just like the characters that draw me into their worlds
Adam: What are your three best tips applicable to entrepreneurs, executives, and civic leaders?
Christy: I try not to compartmentalize my life. I try to see my creative endeavor as something that informs my life and vice versa. I try to incorporate breathwork and cold plunges and healthy cleanses because it’s not just about longevity and feeling better but about having the energy and the inspiration to write the next story or do the next project. I try to connect with young people who are working hard at their craft and offer mentorship opportunities.
1. Know what you love… listen to what makes your heart sing and follow that path until you find a career in that world.
2. Be consistent, passionate, and carve out time daily to hone your craft and dedicate the appropriate amount of time to your work/project. It won’t happen by itself!
3. Be open to new ideas..stay curious and surround yourself with people who are supportive and also big thinkers who share a love for curiosity.
Adam: Who are the best leaders you have been around and what have you learned from them? What do you believe makes an effective leader?
Christy: The best leaders are the ones who don’t just talk. They do. The best leaders have common sense and common sense is a huge gift we are all given, we just don’t use it because so many other things get in the way. I believe an effective leader is strong enough to be able to show they are vulnerable.
Adam: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?
Christy: Write the book…ten years will pass by whether you write it or not…so why not write your book?
Adam: What can anyone do to pay it forward?’
Christy: Be a mentor!
