Meet Linnea Mullen | Model

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

Hi Linnea, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
That kindness is everything. I was 15 years old when I first travelled away from home to model in Mexico City by myself. I was the youngest model in the apartment by half a decade and I was so intimidated by the other models whom I lived with. To help put my mind at ease I realized they are all away from their families and homes as well and this also may be a first for them. So there wasn’t any need for me to act better than I was to level up with them, I just needed to be kind. Even now at 20 years old, I remind myself of my favourite quote from the movie Cinderella “Have courage and be kind”. I would have those words tattooed on me if I could but there are no tattoos in modelling haha.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started modelling when I was 15 years old, and while I love the opportunities it has given me, it hasn’t always been easy. I’ve always hated being alone, and at first, the long trips for modeling placements were really difficult. I’m naturally a little shy, but I quickly realized that making friends and putting yourself out there is essential. I had to fake being an extrovert at first, but over time, it just became who I am.

When I do have alone time, I’ve found comfort in reading—it’s honestly been the best thing for me. Balancing school and modeling is tough, but constantly having downtime to read has been a blessing. Of course, I miss my family, but I’ve learned to be okay with that sacrifice to chase my dreams. My dad, Cary Mullen, was a two-time Olympian and World Cup champion in skiing, and he also had to be away from his family for long periods to achieve what he did. That motivates me to push forward.

Through my journey, I want my brand to be about embracing who you are and not being afraid to stand out. I’ve always dressed the way I want, even if it’s different from what’s trendy. I love my cute Strawberry Shortcake hoodies and sparkly Uggs. My best friend, Zoe, is the complete opposite—she has beautiful, striking black curly hair, bold makeup, and wears laces, rhinestones, chunky jewelry, and big hoops. She looks like an ethereal fairy, and I admire her so much for it. People always say I’m the golden retriever and she’s the black cat—we’re total opposites, but she’s taught me that it’s okay to be loud, expressive, and truly myself.

More than anything, I want to spread kindness in this industry. When I first started modeling, I was uncomfortable and scared. I know what that feels like, and I want to be someone other girls can turn to. You never know what someone else is going through, even if they seem fine, intimidating, or even mean. I hope that through my career, I can make others feel safe, comfortable, and inspired to be their true selves!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Calgary in the winter, Banff would be a must. There’s nothing like seeing the mountains covered in snow—it makes everything feel straight out of a postcard.

First stop would be Lake Louise. Skating on the frozen lake with the mountains all around is something you can’t really describe until you’re there. If we were feeling up for it, we could hit the slopes at Sunshine or Lake Louise—both are amazing, even if you’re just there for the views.

Walking around Banff in the winter is honestly just nice on its own. The lights, the snow, the mountains—it’s all just really peaceful. And if we wanted to do something different, maybe a sleigh ride or dog sledding. Just depends on the vibe of the trip.

If they were visiting in the summer, though, it would be all about the Calgary Stampede. It’s such a huge part of the city’s culture, and you can’t really experience Calgary without it. The rodeo, the concerts, the crazy food—you just have to go all in. I’d take them to the midway for all the rides and deep-fried everything, then we’d check out the chuckwagon races and end the night at Nashville North or one of the big tents for live music. It’s basically ten days of non-stop fun, and if you’re in Calgary in July, you just have to be a part of it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to give a huge shoutout to Merchants, the restaurant I work at in Calgary. They have always supported me and given me the flexibility to travel for different modeling placements around the world while welcoming me back every time I return to make money for my next adventure. My managers, Bler, Drea, and Edi have always been incredibly understanding of my last-minute modelling schedule and are genuinely excited and proud of me. Their support has meant so much, and I’m truly grateful for them!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linnealeemullen?igsh=MXA4ZDVvajc4MndiZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
1. Dobble Studio
2. Matea Boucher
3. Isabella apura
4. David Ventura
5. Mur Muri
6/7. German Valesquez Salinas