We had the good fortune of connecting with Marie Stark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marie, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk-taking is imperative. When I look over the course of my life, I know risk has played a substantial role in not only my ability to succeed, but my ability to grow and evolve. Being the first-generation born American, I moved to Los Angeles from Houston, Texas after graduating college. At the age of 21, I essentially uprooted my whole life in Texas for my dreams of being a working actress in LA. I had no proof my dreams would come true. I left behind my family and friends for a life that I had no certainty would come to fruition. But that’s the whole point of risk-taking: believing in yourself when no one else will and having the courage to take the road less traveled. After years of being in LA, I did eventually book a role. What if I never took that risk of uprooting my whole life to move to LA? What if I didn’t dare to believe in myself?

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am most proud of my journey. Through grit, tenacity, and perseverance, I never gave up on myself or my dreams. My dream of moving to LA and booking a role as an actress was, in hindsight, a big risk and filled with uncertainty. I believed in myself and I knew what I wanted to accomplish. It’s not enough to just have a vision, you must also act on that vision and make the steps necessary to accomplish your overall goal. There were many challenges I overcame in order to build a firm foundation in LA. I think the biggest lesson I learned was to never get deterred or distracted and to never lose sight of my purpose or value. I want the world to know that I imagined where I wanted to be everyday, and still do. My hope is that I fulfill my purpose; whatever that may be, and continue to carry that humility and drive that guided me through each step of my journey along with me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love going to the The Grove and Farmer’s Market in LA. They have great places to eat, socialize, and feel the vibrant energy of the city. I also enjoy having brunch at The Strand House in Manhattan Beach or relaxing at Point Dume State Beach in Malibu. When I’m in a mood for hot tea/drinks, Urth Caffe in Melrose or Republic of Pie in North Hollywood are always a delight. I also enjoy amazing ocean views and food at both Nobu Malibu and Moonshadow’s.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Big thank you and shoutout to my husband, Dr. Brandon Stark and son, Liam Stark. My dear family of support: Anness & Joel Jensen, Oswald Bertrand, Vladimir Stark, Tessa Stark & Eric Stark. Lastly, a major shoutout to the incomparable, Emmy-Award Winning Casting Director, Robi Reed. Thank you Robi for believing in me every step of the way.

Website: www.mariestark.com

Instagram: mrsmariestark

Twitter: mrsmariestark

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