We had the good fortune of connecting with Bre Mueck and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Bre, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I think with any creative career, it’s easy for it to become all-consuming – especially when you do what you love. Creating a work/life balance can be really challenging, but it’s something that’s become more important to me over time. I think that in a competitive industry, especially when you’re starting out, you feel like you have to dedicate all of your time and energy to anything work-related. You fear that if you don’t, you’ll fall behind. I have certainly felt the pressure of that. But what I’ve discovered is that no matter how much I enjoy what I do, the more balance I have in my life, the better my work is. And I know that if I don’t take some time to be with the people I love and do things outside of my work that bring me joy, I start to burn out, which causes my work to suffer. I’ve learned that when I create time for a life outside of the industry, I’m able to fill my creativity tank. That way I can come back to my work energized, inspired, and ready to go.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve always been drawn to acting. The magic of bringing stories to life, exploring different facets of the human experience, and collaborating creatively with like-minded people is something I am fiercely passionate about. It’s been both incredibly challenging and incredibly rewarding, and I feel very fortunate to have been a part of some wonderful films and television shows. At this stage of my career, I find myself having to constantly stretch and expand beyond my comfort zone, which I think is what led me to producing and writing. It’s been great to explore new avenues creatively. I love being involved in the process from the inception of an idea through to seeing the finished project on screen. When it comes to my work, I’ve learned the importance of enjoying each step of the journey and never losing sight of why I do what I do. I think storytelling is an incredibly powerful medium. It can help us to understand ourselves and the world around us. The ability to have an effect on someone – to make them think, laugh, cry or to help them feel less alone in whatever they may be going through – is something that always inspires me.
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.
There are so many amazing places and cool neighborhoods to explore in LA. The list is endless! Obviously since the pandemic, things have changed significantly, but there’s still a lot of awesome things to experience. I would definitely go hiking in Griffith Park for some great scenic views of the city. Followed by dinner at Sage Vegan Bistro. The Hollywood Bowl is a must; they have so many great outdoor concerts during the summer and you can bring your own drinks and snacks. I also love Hotel Cafe for more intimate live music. I’d take an afternoon to walk around the beautiful gardens at the Huntington Library. You obviously have got to go to Malibu for an epic beach sunset. And if you’re me, you’ll grab a golden milk latte from the Malibu Farm Cafe while you’re there. On weekends in the summer, I love to pack a big picnic and head to The Hollywood Forever Cemetery with friends for an outdoor movie screening. They even have a dance floor and a DJ for anyone who wants to get their groove on after the film. It’s a blast!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We all know that it really does take a village. I’m so grateful for my friends, family, and the amazing community I have out here. Without their continued support and encouragement, I wouldn’t have the strength to keep doing what I’m doing. I also have to give a shout-out to my parents who have always been my biggest champions. I come from a very creative family, and I think that really helped my parents understand the things I was trying to pursue. They both have and continue to be incredibly supportive and nurturing of my dreams and desires – especially when I made the decision to move halfway around the world to Los Angeles. I was terrified and had bought a one-way ticket, so there was really no turning back. I remember calling my mum on the phone and sobbing regularly for the first few weeks (if not months)! She really helped me through the tough times and continues to do so. And my dad is constantly sharing my work and accolades with everyone in his community. There are so many highs and lows in this business and my family has been a constant source of love and support. I wouldn’t be here without it.
Instagram: @bre.mueck
Facebook: @bre.mueck