Angela Stocker shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Angela, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
I think the most important quality would be integrity. When you have that, you have the intelligence to know what’s just and unjust, as well as the energy to fight for it. With integrity you have a deep knowledge of yourself and can apply that in all aspects of your life.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
First and foremost I’m a creative. Whether it’s performing my standup or making products, I’m always trying to express myself and share it with others. I started my brand Highly Crafty as away to share my love of crafting and cannabis with people on YouTube. That quickly turned into me creating cannabis themed clothes, accessories and home decor that reflected stoner culture in a more fashionable and fun way.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I was in an acting class in college and the professor told me that I could have a career as an actress if I wanted to. Up until that moment I had never really considered my creativity as anything more than a hobby, but that changed my whole trajectory. I auditioned for an acting program in New York City and that opened the floodgates for me. All of the performance and crafting that I enjoyed became something more than a hobby, it opened up a path that led me to where I am today.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
If I’m being honest, almost giving up is something that happens to me every few years. When things don’t go as I planned or just aren’t creating the results that I want, it always gives way to doubt. The thing that always brings me back is the fact that I’m going to create no matter what, so why not share it and try to spread the joy that it brings me? That’s what keeps me motivated and inspires me to try new approaches and innovate in a way that works for me.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Highly Crafty is the project I’m committed to no matter how long it takes. I know that the stigma of cannabis use is so strong and there are so many misconceptions. I want to use my brand as a way to combat that stigma through educational blog posts on my website, as well as through making wearable statement pieces. Like any medicine, there are benefits and risks, and I want to help people learn about both….and help them look good while they do it!
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Worrying! It’s such a pointless thing and being able to break free of that would really help me to embrace the present, which is all we can really be certain of anyway.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.highlycrafty.com
- Instagram: @highlyangie @highly.crafty
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@highlycrafty
