Meet Gina Stoj

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

Hi Gina, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I originally entered this business because my son is an actor. I noticed a lot of top agents/managers weren’t willing to invest time into developing highly talented emerging actors. They didn’t want inexperienced actors on their books — but without experience, how are these actors supposed to grow? It felt like a bit of a catch-22. I realized the industry needed an agent who was brutally honest and willing to work hard for their actors, even at the early stages of their careers. Seeing this gap, I jumped at the opportunity to fill it. I had no idea what I was doing initially, but I learned on the job. Now, with over 20 years of experience, I represent over 300 actors across the US, Australia, and beyond.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
<b>What’s one thing about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?</b> It’s a 24/7 job. Working internationally means I’m up early in the morning and working late into the night. A typical day starts at 3 A.M. — the industry never sleeps. This isn’t a job you can do unless you truly love it!

<b>Risk-taking: How do you think about risk, and what role has it played in your life and career?</b>
Starting Gina Stoj Management was one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken. I gave up a secure, long-term job to pursue something I was passionate about. It was a do-or-die moment for me. I had a background in business, so I was able to make the jump into management and use my skills to build my business from the ground up. My entire job revolves around risk-taking. Every time I put an actor forward for a role, I’m putting my reputation on the line as well as theirs. My system requires everyone to be on top of their game; I also take risks when I suggest actors for roles that casting directors might not have initially considered, but I know they’d be great for. Without risk, nothing gets done.

<b>Aside from deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?</b>
I feel as if I make important decisions every single day. Whether it’s reviewing breakdowns, studying a brief, or conversing with casting, every move I make feels important. To succeed at my job, I need to communicate openly and effectively with my actors, show vulnerability when I don’t know or understand something, and ask casting directors for help.

<b>What is the most important factor behind your success and the success of your brand?</b>
I treat all my actors as if they’re part of my family. They’re much more than just a number to me, and I care deeply about each one. I see their success as my success, and I’m fully committed to supporting them through the highs and lows. Sometimes that involves difficult conversations, but it also means celebrating every win together. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing one of my actors book THAT role. I’m incredibly loyal and always give 1000% to my actors.

<b>What’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?</b>
That’s a tough one… Letting go of actors from my books is always a difficult decision. It’s the hardest part of my job because I feel connected to every person I take on. I never want to do it, but sometimes it’s necessary for both of us and needs to be done.

<b>Work-life balance: How has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?</b>
I don’t really have a life outside of running my business. I work six days a week and start my day at 3 A.M., finishing around 6 P.M. Occasionally, I get to spend time with my beautiful granddaughters and loving family. To wrap up the day, I’ll usually sit on the couch with my husband and watch some Netflix, or Stan, and catch up on some of the hottest shows. Industry knowledge is a must in my profession, so I try to stay up-to-date with the latest releases.

I do make an effort to walk every day, just to get my body moving and take my eyes off the screens for a bit — but it took about six years of pre-planning to make that happen consistently!

<b>Do you have a favorite quote or affirmation? What does it mean to you?</b>
I have a few favorites:
“Choices, not chances, determine your destiny.” – Aristotle
“Be brave. Even if you’re not, pretend to be.” – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
“If you can dream it, you can achieve it.” – Zig Ziglar
There are many more I love, but these inspire me to give my best in everything I do.

<b>Why did you pursue a creative career?</b>
It started with wanting to guide my son and support his career. I’ve always been a bit of a ‘stage mom,’ eager to help and make things better. I then discovered I was quite good at it, and really loved working with actors and casting, so I jumped straight into the deep end.

<b>What do you want your legacy to be? What do you want people to remember about you?</b>
I want people to say, “Gina was someone who made me feel like I was somebody, that I was worthy of support and deserved a shot at my dreams.” Also, “She ALWAYS answered her phone when I needed her.” I carry two phones and an iPad with me everywhere I go. Even if I’m in the ER with a heart attack, I’d still respond to an email!

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.
Los Amigos in Burbank is my go-to spot for hosting gatherings or industry events with my network. For dinner, I love going to California Pizza Kitchen — buffalo wings are my go-to wherever I am.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My son Jason. He is the reason I started this business (it’s all his fault!).

Website: gina@ginastoj.com

Instagram: Stojgina

Linkedin: https://au.linkedin.com/company/gina-stoj-management

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gina.stoj 

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