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

Hi Catherine, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work-life balance is quite an ever-changing adventure. In the typical work place, there’s a 9-5 window where you solely focus on your work, and the time before and after is up to you. The whole Monday-Friday work schedule doesn’t always work out in freelance. My calendar is constantly shifting and updating. While I have some events & projects scheduled out months in advance, I also get text messages the night before asking if I can do a shoot or project the next day.

In the midst of this chaos, I’ve learned that the key to managing it all is knowing when to rest and recognizing my limitations. Although I don’t always succeed, I strive to take at least one day a week away from emails, messages, and social media. On a smaller, more attainable scale, I begin my mornings with prayer and meditation before opening my emails or beginning any sort of work. This practice centers on me and helps me focus better throughout the day. I value delivering quality work, and I believe my best work comes from a place of rest.

Additionally, a new lesson I’m learning is the importance of knowing when to say no. Not every opportunity is meant for me, and I’m not meant for every project. Sometimes, the best way I can serve others is by redirecting myself or others to better and healthier options.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in the belief that everyone is uniquely beautiful, including myself. I’m proud of my journey, especially overcoming the fear of losing the magic I saw in the world as I grew up. Though make-believe isn’t a career title, I’ve found that acting, dancing, choreography, and writing allow me to continue that sense of play and wonder. These forms of expression help me explore and share the stories that matter most to me.

The arts have never been easy, and my early 20s have been some of the most challenging years of my life. What has sustained me is my faith in God and the unwavering support of my family and friends. From a young age, I knew the world wasn’t all magic, but it became my goal—if not a conditioned response—to find hope in the darkness as well. Through both the good and bad experiences, I’ve learned that art is a powerful way to share love and compassion. Whether it’s through movement in dance, storytelling in acting, or capturing the light of others in photography, my goal is to highlight the beauty I see in others and bring that to the world.

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.
If I were planning a week-long trip for a friend visiting the area, we’d start with some classic LA spots like downtown Hollywood, the Hollywood sign, or Universal Studios for that iconic LA experience.

But as a former granola girl from San Luis Obispo, I’m always on the hunt for nature escapes. I’d suggest hiking at Eaton Canyon Falls or Malibu Creek State Park, and we could also spend a day at El Matador Beach or Point Dume. The Getty Villa is a must-visit too. For shopping and food, Melrose Avenue has the cutest boutiques and great places to eat. Parking can be a bit tricky though everywhere so pay attention to the signs!

It’s only been a year since I moved here, so I’m still discovering the area. Honestly, most of my time is spent working, dancing, or acting. So, I’m still a newbie—don’t come for me, LA locals!

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?
There are so many people I wish to acknowledge. My family, friends, and mentors from various aspects of my life have all been incredibly supportive on my journey. However, my mom stands out as one of my biggest supporters. Reflecting on how much she means to me makes me tear up all the time.

My mom raised me on her own, and not only did she care for me, but she also managed to create and run her own business. Being a single parent is no easy feat; being a single parent running your business is even harder. She showed me through her life how I can not only follow my passions but also create opportunities for myself in the process.

Even during tough times, she always found a way to support me and my passions. She has sacrificed so much of her life for mine, and there aren’t enough words to fully express my gratitude. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today, with all that I’ve accomplished, without her. She inspires me and encourages me to keep my faith in God and believe that the best is always to come.

Website: https://catherinehfisher.com

Instagram: catherinehfisher

Image Credits
Lindsay Rose Photography
Mover Captures Movement
Likewise Lens

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.