We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna G. Martins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna G., how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work-life balance has changed over time and in the best of ways. I was, however, very much part of the “hustle culture” back in the day. Remember ‘team no sleep’? You could say I was somewhat of an unofficial representative of this lifestyle, ha-ha. Definitely not a proponent of “all work, all the time” but I think a lot of individuals from my generation who were “team no sleep” for a season or two can say they are grateful today, for how much they learned when pursuing their passion with such vigor. I know I can. But I’m glad it isn’t my mentality today. At the end of the day, it’s just not healthy to be in a constant state of mind that’s entirely focused on achieving career success. 

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.

My work is so much fun! I get to immerse myself in unique stories from around the world and then help these stories connect with their audiences. I cannot think of anything more gratifying to do for a living. I also learn something new every day, which is always a bonus!

When I think back to my journey, it was (has been) unique, and special, in so many ways. And that’s, in part, because it wasn’t at all, a linear trajectory. It took a whole lot of exciting turns. I also got to wear several different hats that taught me a lot about perspectives, which has helped me in my profession, and personally. When you come from a place of deep understanding and insight, empathy comes in, and connection happens. That’s one of the most important lessons I learned along the way.

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 approach itineraries a bit differently. (Some would probably even say it’s a bit intense, actually, ha-ha.) I say this because, in knowing a loved one is visiting, it’s no longer about what I think they should see/do, but what I know about them to curate ‘their’ experience. So, what I am saying is: no itinerary is the same. I guess I’m also saying that it’s kind of personal (and super fun)!

 

I will say this though, Los Angeles has a special place in my heart. I remember my first ‘moment’ with LA when I set eyes on the heart-shaped flower patch hanging on the side of the 101 freeway. I had just moved to LA and didn’t know what to feel. That moment, though, made me smile and take a sigh of relief. In a way, it helped me rest in the unknown of what was to come as an LA resident. After going on my very first hike that first week, I dedicated my first year to going on a new hiking trail every Saturday. And it all stemmed from that moment with a piece of nature on the side of a highway. Living among palm trees and mountains, and watching sunrises and sunsets got this city girl from Boston, Massachusetts mesmerized and appreciating nature like never before.

I know I didn’t give you an itinerary, but I hope my love and appreciation for Los Angeles transpired.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am nothing without my relationship with Jesus Christ, above all. I also live in a constant place of gratitude for the incredible family (and now, husband) He gifted me with. The friends I consider family, too! There is truly nothing like real love and support. They have continuously poured into me and never lost faith in me throughout this journey. They were then and will forever be my absolute constants.

Website: https://www.projectsbyag.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectsbyag

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annagmartins

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProjectsbyAG

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.