We recently had the chance to connect with Angela Asatrian and have shared our conversation below.
Angela, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
A moment I felt really proud was when I decided to risk everything to follow my dream. I gave up my beautiful apartment in San Diego, with its ocean view, and I left a comfortable, well-paying job that was fun but didn’t fulfill me. I packed my bags and moved to Armenia, even though I didn’t have the money or the experience yet to guarantee I’d succeed. It was scary to leave that stability behind, but I trusted myself and worked hard — and somehow, everything came together. I achieved the goal I set for myself, and it taught me that taking risks for what truly matters can pay off in ways you can’t always see at the start.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Angela Asatrian, and I’m a therapist, writer, producer, and director. I’ve directed three documentaries and recently completed my very first narrative feature film. I earned my master’s degree in social work and began my filmmaking journey while studying human trafficking in the Philippines, an experience that inspired my first documentary. From there, I went on to create a film about medical errors in the U.S. and another investigating the 2020 Artsakh war. After working on such heavy and important topics, I felt called to create something more uplifting, so I wrote and directed a Christmas romantic drama set in Armenia. This film not only brings a heartwarming story to life but also showcases the beauty of Armenia and our rich culture in a way that feels fresh and relevant. I’m passionate about telling meaningful stories that connect with audiences and shine a light on places, people, and issues that deserve to be seen.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was through deep and meaningful conversations I used to have with my friend Renae. She helped me understand that the universe — or God — truly has your back, and that everything you experience, whether it feels good or bad at the time, is really just a lesson meant to help you grow. Once I embraced that mindset, I lost my fear of ‘failure’ and stopped worrying about things not working out. Now, I truly believe that I can conquer anything I set my mind to, because even the setbacks are just stepping stones toward something greater.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I wouldn’t say I ever almost gave up, but I definitely had moments of doubt — questioning if I was doing the right thing, if the timing was right, if I was being naive or rushing into something. There were times I wondered if it would really work out. But giving up was never an option, because to me, giving up would mean giving life to all those doubts and letting them win. I believe if you just keep persevering and moving forward, you’ll get there — maybe not exactly when or how you expected, but you’ll get there.
What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I think my closest friends would say what really matters to me is living up to my potential — following my dreams, and staying true to my soul’s mission, or as the Japanese call it, your Ikigai. That sense of purpose, of doing what you’re meant to do in this life, is something I hold very close, and I think the people who know me best see that in everything I do.
Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Definitely! Every morning when I get out of bed, I turn on music and start dancing, it’s such a great way to set the tone for the day, to get into a positive mindset and a happy vibration. There are also moments when I’m working at my desk and I just get hit with this glimmer of joy, this deep gratitude that I get to live the life I do, doing what I love and making a positive impact. I really believe if you’re not feeling that way about your work, it’s worth asking yourself whether it’s time to find something new or simply shift your mindset, because so much of that happiness comes from the power of your own thoughts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://angelaasatrian.com/
- Instagram: angela_asatrian
- Linkedin: Angela Asatrian
- Facebook: angela asatrian
