We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Olguin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jordan, what do you want people to remember about you?
Wow! What a great question. In one word, I want my legacy to be light. In a world full of darkness, hate, oppression, I want to shine my light and see the lights of those around me shine. I can only hope that the ripple effects of my work in this world reach generations to come. In March of 2020, I embarked on a mental health journey of healing my trauma head on. It has opened up a world I never before thought existed, and it also proved to be the hardest journey of my life. I want the fruits of my work to ripple throughout the world. One of my spiritual guides, so to speak, reminds me that although it seems selfish, this inner work is the work that changes the world. We never truly know how far our light can reach until we stand and shine. I want people to remember that I never gave up. I want to serve as an inspiration to any and all who feel that they can’t; I want them to know that they absolutely can! There are days for me that are so dark and hard, just living seems impossible. But I continue to wake up every morning and each day I do is a blessing to continue to work hard and shine my light. We are never given more than we can handle, even when it seems like we can’t handle it (trust me… I’m there more often than not). Through my art, I am able to show what perseverance and hard work can create. This is what I want people tp remember about me.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been singing and dancing on stages since I was three years old. Fast forward to present day, I’ve performed for thousands of people from New Mexico to Los Angeles. I also am proud to be an actor, grateful for having opportunities to tell stories on both the big screen and on a theatre stage. I believe I was put on this Earth to entertain; it’s where I am most comfortable. Has it been easy? No. I’ve had to overcome rejections from representation, people going behind my back to sabotage my career, “fake” friends and allies, and an ongoing mental health struggle with Major Depression, Anxiety, and Complex PTSD. I am grateful for these hardships and those to come because they are all keys to making me who I am. I overcame (and continue to overcome these challenges) with a faith in me, a faith in a higher power/purpose, and a power inside that reminds me that this is what I am meant to do. We are never given more that we can handle and my journey is a testament to hardworking and perseverance. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is the virtue of discipline. The work isn’t always fun; the rejections hurt; the path is always uncertain, but discipline keeps me sharp and ready for the next big step. Every year I think, “What’s next?” and at the end of the year, I’m surprised and grateful for where I’ve gone. I want the world to know that I am a dreamer. I dream big. So big, I get laughed at. So big, I get hated on. But that is the key. I read somewhere, “Dream so big it makes people uncomfortable when you talk about it.” I want the world to know that I come from hardship. I carry struggles everyday no one will see. But I dare to dream big and shine my light to give love to an abundant world.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first place we’re going is Haruya Izakaya for some of the best sushi and oysters in LA! Of course going to the Santa Monica Pier is also a must. I also LOVE Universal Studios! Riding the rides, doing the studio tour, all of it! At some point a couple of mall trips are also in order (I love malls). The Grove is a sight that has to be seen (and we can stop at the Hollywood Walk Of Fame on the way to see our favorite stars!) and The Americana and Glendale Galleria is one of my most favorite spots in LA. Of course no LA experience is complete without Sprinkles Cupcakes. I’m addicted to those! LA really has a little bit of everything and I’m still exploring myself. Sometimes just seeing where the city takes you is an adventure in and of itself!Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want the world to know that I am who I am because of who surrounds me. I would not be here without God, The Universe, Source Energy, whatever higher power you believe in, so do I. I also would not be here without my mom’s love and support. My partner, Samantha Shen, who has been my rock since we met. My grandma Mary, my stepdad, and my whole family who continue to be my clan and support my dreams. My friend and mentor, Lindsy Campbell. My friend Juliana Redden, who turned me onto “You Are A Badass” by Jen Sincero. All of my loving friends who have my back. I would like to thank Happy Haven Management, Vanessa Timmons and Yasmin Spain, for believing in me like no one has before. I especially want to shout out Anney Snyder, Dr. Florian Birkmayer, Andres Duran, and Dierdre Wilson for being my amazing mental health team who guide me to healing and shining my light. For these, and many more, I am grateful have you in my life and would not be who I am without you.
Instagram: jordanolguinofficial
Image Credits
Samantha Shen, Lindsy Campbell, Maya Holt, Joshua Romero