Meet Naomi Castellano | Actor & Musician

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

Hi Naomi, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Living with a grateful heart is my main principle and practicing this has completely changed my life and career. It seems so easy, but when we are going through our day to day in such a busy overstimulating world it can be the last thing on our mind. I used to believe that my work directly correlated with my worth. If I wasn’t constantly creating and offering my art to the world then I wasn’t of value. When I first started out in the entertainment industry, I was not only trying to navigate uncharted territory but also hungry in my search for opportunities. I often found myself in a mentality of lack. A part of my gratitude practice has been finding new artistic avenues to express myself, without putting on the pressure of relating my creations to my career. I also consciously think about what I am grateful for on a daily basis. It’s as simple as the perfect cup of coffee on a rainy day, or as large as a significant occurrence changing your life’s path. Since practicing living with a grateful heart, and reprogramming my mindset I not only feel more peaceful in my daily life, but it has significantly impacted my career. It’s almost as if by finding content in knowing I’m an artist without anything to prove, I’ve been able to open more doors to contribute my art. Some art is for us individually, and some is to impact our world. No matter the level of expression, everyday we wake up to new energy in our life, and at any moment something incredible can happen. Living and keeping our heartspace in the energy of gratitude is appreciation for experiencing the world around us, which is part of the artist’s perspective on life. It’s simply being human.

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 an actor and musician based in both LA and NYC. I’m super excited about this year so far, as I have been on set for some amazing projects as well as jumping into the studio to record my first solo ep. It’s a big year, one I am very grateful for and It makes me reflect on how far I have come. The one thing I wish I had known is how much sacrifice really goes into pursuing an artistic career path. I have had to give up a lot, but so far I would not change a thing. I’ve learned that you have to continue taking leaps of faith, practice patience as well as gratitude, and keep going.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m originally from California but have spent a lot of time in NY so I’m still exploring LA as an adult myself! I’m originally from Huntington Beach so even though it’s outside of LA I have to say you NEED to get breakfast from Sugar Shack Cafe. The Eggs Benedict is some of the best I’ve ever had, and the cinnamon rolls are the size of your face. After, you can enjoy the Huntington pier as well as a surf competition (depending on if one is going on). In LA there’s nothing like a Cinespia movie screening. If you’re not afraid of some ghosts hahaha. And I’m a sucker for iconic spots like the Hollywood Cemetery where Cinespia showings are, so other iconic spots to hit up are Randy’s Donuts and Frolic Room for drinks. Angels Flight has been featured in sooo many films and it’s super cool. I’m also a coffee addict, so some great coffee spots are Verve Coffee Roasters, Full Service Coffee Co. (classic drive thru coffee), and Groundwork Coffee Co. When you need to ground yourself and feel at peace Lake Shrine Meditation Gardens is the place to be. I think the best way to explore any city is to plan some activities for part of the trip and leave the rest up for exploration and surprise. As a bonus I can throw in some NYC spots: Bibble and Sip, Ess-a-Bagel, and Maman.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This story just like my life story is dedicated to all individuals who I have encountered in my journey so far.

Website: https://www.naomicastellano.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n.a0m.i/

Image Credits
Music Studio Images: Edwin Ascencio