Meet Shanna Forrestall: Storyteller, Advocate, Animal Lover, Human
We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanna Forrestall and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shanna, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe intelligent risk-taking is one of the primary ingredients in experiencing success in any area of our lives. When I look back at the things I am most grateful for or most proud of – they would NEVER have happened without some risk. As a creative, it’s typically in taking a “risk” that I find my best work. The “problem” with risk-taking is that we fail sometimes and we believe for some odd reason that that is strange or unacceptable, when it’s failure that is often the BEST catalyst to success.
As a human, I know that my greatest loves were often the greatest perceived risks, because they came after many failures and after I knew what I could lose.
As a humanitarian, without the risk of stepping outside my comfort zone to help others, and by risking my time, money, talent and/or emotions I would not have the amazing memories I have or have been able to help so many after devastating losses caused by natural disasters. Did it hurt my heart… yes… was it often emotionally painful, physically uncomfortable, ego challenging and/or financially straining … yes… but was it worth it …? ABSOLUTELY.
As an adventurer, without the risk of stepping off of the beaten path and trying something new or scary or uncharted, I would not have the amazing memories of travel and experience that are my most precious possession. As I age, I am more and more confident that following my intuition to take calculated risks is the best way to build the self and the life that I desire. I want to continue to take risks … I wanna be that “crazy old lady” doing things everyone else just dreams about…
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I wrote my first children’s story a few years ago and was able to hire four young men on the autism spectrum to help me illustrate and release that book and it’s accompanying digital assets. (www.WhyTheGirl.com) This inspired me and now I’m releasing children’s bedtime stories on all digital outlets with Jeff Gold of My Calm World.
Since Covid began, my acting and film producing work was put on hold and I’ve also been able to focus on releasing a meditation series which has been in my heart for about a decade. Plus, I’ve written 12 original songs which will start rolling out next year.
It’s interesting how a global pandemic, losing your husband unexpectedly and then being involved in a five car pileup that was completely NOT your fault – all in one year – will push you to find and fulfill some of your deepest heart’s desires.
I want my work in all of its forms to inspire, encourage and heal. I have overcome a history of emotional, religious, sexual, mental and physical abuse to be the person I am today. And I’m proud that I am a healthy, happy human being who has learned to finally love herself. Nothing makes me happier than creating work that helps others.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles is such a great city and has always been a “City of Angels” for me. When friends or family visit there are a few places I always love to take them. For quick nature getaways, I love driving up Hwy 2 into the Los Angeles forest, spending time at Huntington Gardens and driving up to the Lake Arrowhead area. For beautiful healthy food with a lovely dining experience, I always enjoy meals at Inn of the 7th Ray, Santuari and Sage.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my Shoutout to my producing partner Jeff Gold (www.jeffgoldmusic.com) of My Calm World (www.mycalmworld.com). Without his love, guidance and encouragement I would not be doing the work I am today. My children’s stories, meditation series and slate of songs we’re releasing next year are all due to his mentorship and friendship.
Website: http://www.
Instagram: http://www.
Linkedin: https://www.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.
Other: www.
Image Credits
“Sea Goddess” photo by Olivia Mercury – IG @sisterofsin_liv
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