Meet Janine Parkinson | Writer (Former Stunt Performer)

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

Hi Janine, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk has always been a central aspect of my life and career. It’s a necessary component of growth and exploration. In my earlier days as a stunt performer, every action I took involved risk. Whether it was being set on fire or leaping off buildings, I understood the potential dangers but also recognized the opportunities for personal and professional development that came with pushing boundaries.

Taking risks has propelled me forward, opening doors to new experiences and opportunities that I may not have encountered otherwise. Transitioning from performing stunts to writing about them was a risk in itself, but it allowed me to explore my passion for storytelling in a different way and expand my horizons beyond physical performance.

It’s through taking risks that I’ve been able to carve out a unique path for myself, filled with challenges, adventures and ultimately, fulfillment.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
While many stunt performers typically transition into roles like 2nd unit directors, coordinators, or actors, I felt drawn to writing. as well as opportunities to write for video games and be published in influential international publications.

What I’m particularly proud of is my bravery and thirst for knowledge. I dedicated significant time and effort to seeking out the top writing instructors and courses to propel my career forward. Initially, rejection used to discourage me, halting my progress. However, a mentor with a successful track record in movies and books enlightened me; they emphasized that I wasn’t facing enough rejection. So, I committed to submitting a minimum of 20 pitches per month. Over time, my resilience paid off. From predominantly facing rejections, I now see acceptance in roughly one out of every five submissions. It’s a clear sign to me that I’m headed in the right direction. Additionally, I’ve recognized the importance of amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly those of women with unique experiences like mine.

Ultimately, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions relentlessly, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Los Angeles, I’d want to show them a week filled with diverse experiences and hidden gems. Here’s a little itinerary:

Day 1-2: Exploring the Libraries and Biking Adventures

Start by checking out the events and activities at the Santa Monica and Venice libraries. As a budget-conscious freelancer, I’ve discovered incredible opportunities there, from free chess lessons in Venice to Ikebana workshops in Santa Monica.
I also recommend joining a tour group like Bikes and Hikes to discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks. With my family’s biking legacy, my great grandad invented the prototype for the 24/30 speed bike, it’s a tradition I hold dear, offering a unique perspective on the city.

Day 3: Beach Sports

Discover the thrill of Paddle Tennis on Venice Beach, a sport that fosters inclusivity and camaraderie. With my coach Hit with Marcus, I’m investing time in trying to master this exciting game. It has even inspired me to write a TV series and line up an article for publication in September.

Day 4: Martial Arts
Dive into martial arts training at the Inosanto Academy. Here, I stay connected to my passion for physical discipline.

Day 5 and throughout the week: I’d sprinkle in visits to local eateries and bars, highlighting the vibrant culinary scene of LA. As well as local art galleries.

By the end of the week, my friend would have experienced a blend of culture, adventure, and community that truly captures the magic of the city of Angeles.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s difficult to attribute my achievements to just one person or organization because it truly takes a village to support and guide you along the way.

My friends and family have been instrumental in supporting my goals, even when they seemed unconventional. Not everyone gets excited about the prospect of engaging in a knife fight or rolling down the side of a cliff, but their unwavering encouragement has fueled my determination.

Mentors have also played a pivotal role in my development, providing invaluable guidance and expertise to navigate the challenges and opportunities that have come my way. Their wisdom has instilled confidence in my abilities and helped me hone my skills, ensuring that I can perform consistently and excel in my endeavors. Like professional athletes who rely on coaches to maintain peak performance, I view my career with a similar mindset. Surrounding myself with a supportive community that fosters growth and accountability ensures that I continue to evolve and develop good habits along the way.

So, to everyone who has contributed to my journey, whether through support, mentorship, or simply being part of my community, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.

Website: www.chickenandcat.com

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

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@j9parkinson