Interviewed by Jocelyn Castor
Jocelyn: What inspired you to become an artist at the age 12?
Michole: I was inspired by my mom. She used to model. When I was 12 she enrolled my baby sister, Corteney, and I at Cleo Johnson’s School of Modeling in Chicago. I loved it so much. Then I saw a Barbizon commercial and begged to go. I took my first acting class there, got the bug, and haven’t stopped.
Jocelyn: What are some of the struggles you experience in the entertainment business?
Michole: The biggest thing is not feeling like I’m enough, like I don’t measure up to Hollywood’s standards. It’s hard not to give away your power because it feels like you’re being judged all the time. It’s really not about you, but it’s hard not to take it personally because you are your instrument. You’re judged on so many different things, a lot of it has to do with how you look or if you have a name or enough credits. At least that’s what was in my head and it made me turn in on myself for a while. I started thinking all these things were wrong with me. I probably always thought them, but this business can really magnify your insecurities. I had to remind myself not to give my power away, that it’s about the journey and what I love to do. I get the opportunity to do my art in every audition and enjoy the process without being so focused on the end results all the time.
Jocelyn: Do you have any advice for anyone who is looking to get into modeling and acting?
Michole: Love yourself and honor your authenticity. Meet yourself with love and compassion every day because it’s a tough business. Don’t take things personally and don’t equate your worth with where you are in this business. Protect your energy.
Jocelyn: What do you like doing in your spare time?
Michole: Spare time? What spare time? (Laughing) If I’m not working I’m always working on working. I’m also a singer songwriter and would like find more time to get back to it. I also love getting a massage, a nice hot pool, and spending time with my family and friends. It’s really important to be around people that ground me and love me and vis versa.
Jocelyn: What is one message you would give to fans?
Michole: The things that you think are your flaws are the things that actually make you authentic. Love yourself just the way you are because nobody can trump authenticity. If things aren’t happening the way you want them to, stay open to new possibilities and don’t box yourself into what you think you “should be doing.” Your divine purpose might actually be different than what you think. If you stay open to new possibilities, it might be bigger than what you think. One other thing I would say is, no matter what’s going on around you, find happiness wherever you are, even if it’s just a little piece. A gratitude journal is always good as well. Write things down no matter how big or small like, “I’m grateful today I have a roof over my head, I’m grateful I have a friend that I can share something with, I’m grateful that I can see the sunrise today, I’m grateful that I woke up this morning…” Acknowledge the good that you have right now. It makes space for more to come.
Jocelyn: How was your experience in the show BMF-Black Mafia Family that was produced by Curtis 50 Cent Jackson?
Michole: It was Divine working on that show. Everybody that I worked with was amazing. I’m gonna start with Russell Hornsby. We have known each other for years. We played the young couple in the original Off Broadway production of August Wilson’s, Jitney. It was just wonderful to work with him again. I am so thankful for that brother right there. Tasha Smith has blown me away. She is one of the best directors I’ve ever worked with. The three of us together had a ball. It was like doing a play. It was amazing. 50 Cent has one of the sweetest souls. I am so grateful for and inspired by him. And Snoop Dogg, I LOVE HIM! He was so much fun. That’s a real brother right there. He’s so down to earth and so kind. He came in with so much respect for the work. It was just beautiful.
Jocelyn: How can people reach you on social media?
Michole: Instagram: @Micholewhite, Facebook: MIchole Briana White: Twitter: @missmichole
