Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirby Ellwood.
Hi Kirby, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in the vibrant city of Cleveland, Ohio, I was just like any other kid – with big dreams, a wild imagination, and a deep love for art. Hours would fly by as I doodled and created, but when college approached, I found myself unsure of what I truly wanted to pursue. Taking a leap, I started as an Interior Design major, and though I enjoyed it, I knew deep down it wasn’t my forever path.
My college years at Kent State University became a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery. From Architecture to Molecular and Cellular Biology, I was on a determined quest to find something that sparked true happiness and excitement within me. But with each major change, I still felt unfulfilled.
Then, fate intervened when I enrolled in Acting 101 with the incredible Jennifer Hemphill. From the very first class, something clicked, and I knew I had found my true calling. Acting brought me alive, and Jennifer’s belief in me boosted my confidence. Being cast in her director’s class for a 10-minute play cemented my passion for acting even further.
Immersing myself in the world of acting, I ventured into various short films and discovered The Houde School of Acting by Jessica Morris Houde. Exploring the Meisner technique and connecting with inspiring people transformed not just my acting but also my perspective on life.
Determined to follow my dreams, I made a bold move to Los Angeles in December 2020, even amidst the challenges of the pandemic. The magic of the city embraced me as I started taking acting classes with John Markland at Markland Studios. Each step in LA not only honed my craft but also helped me uncover more about my own identity. I am so grateful for the amount of personal growth I underwent in John’s Classes. I feel like they helped me become a more well-rounded individual.
Yet, acting wasn’t my sole dream. Alongside my acting journey, I teamed up with my roommate Kelinda Star White to pursue another passion – entrepreneurship. Together, we founded Kreative Collections, a unique lifestyle brand infused with creative flair. Our debut product, the Cappuccino Candle, is more than just a coffee-scented candle. It also looks exactly like a cup of iced coffee, with a keepsake when you’re done burning it.
In addition to my acting and entrepreneurial ventures, I co-host the podcast “Highs, Lows, and Angels” with one of my closest friends, Cleo Selander. Our show explores thought-provoking questions from friends and family, sprinkling humor and entertainment throughout. We also share our personal experiences and practice gratitude, believing it’s an essential aspect of life.
My journey has been a whirlwind of twists and turns, but every step has led me to where I stand today – an actor pursuing my passion, a co-owner of a creative business, and a podcast host spreading positivity and laughter. I’m thrilled for the future and the countless opportunities that await!”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating the path to success in the entertainment industry has been far from smooth, with numerous challenges and twists along the way. The mental struggle of living in LA and facing constant rejection has been one of the toughest hurdles. Balancing big dreams with the reality of a fiercely competitive industry can be a constant cycle of frustration and wavering confidence. Believing in oneself when others may not yet see your potential silently takes a toll on mental health, making it a critical aspect that can make or break you.
Working in the entertainment industry itself presents its own set of difficulties. The uncertainty of when the next job will come or if another opportunity will ever arise can be daunting. I’ve often shared my fears and worries with my roommates, seeking reassurance that I’ll figure things out. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the truth that I have always managed to find my way through challenges, even though it may have been tough.
Moving to LA during the pandemic added another layer of complexity. Settling into a coliving house with 20 people brought a mix of wonderful and interesting personalities, along with the occasional drama. Despite the challenges, I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything, as it taught me valuable lessons about human interactions and the importance of balancing work and personal life.
Throughout my time in LA, I’ve taken on various jobs to sustain myself, from working as a Target employee to front desk duties at an eye doctor’s office and even being a personal assistant. During my stint as a personal assistant, I encountered some of the darker aspects of the industry, realizing that not everyone is genuine or who they claim to be. At one point, I found myself in a challenging situation with all my belongings packed in my car while searching for a new place to live and a new job simultaneously, which was incredibly tough.
Nevertheless, I’ve come to accept that everything happens for a reason, and these experiences have shaped me into the person I am today. Despite the obstacles, I remain resilient and optimistic, knowing that each challenge has strengthened my character and brought me closer to achieving my dreams. The journey may be tough, but I firmly believe that every step, every experience, has led me to where I am meant to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my acting journey, I’ve persevered and never lost sight of my dreams. One particular milestone that fills me with pride is my involvement in the new movie “80 for Brady.” Though it was a single line, saying “Amazing,” seeing myself on the big screen for the first time was a monumental moment. It fueled my determination to be a part of more exciting projects in the future.
What sets me apart in my endeavors is my unwavering positivity. I approach life and work from a place of gratitude, always seeking to infuse positivity into everything I do. I believe that maintaining a positive mindset not only enhances my creativity but also uplifts those around me.
In my entrepreneurial venture with Kreative Collections, I strive to create a brand that exudes positivity and creativity. Our Cappucchino Candles carries a touch of uniqueness, and we hope to bring joy and inspiration to the lives of our customers.
As a podcaster, co-hosting “Highs, Lows, and Angels” with my dear friend Cleo Selander, I aim to make a difference by fostering a positive and engaging environment for our listeners. We explore thought-provoking questions, share personal experiences, and practice gratitude together on every episode. It’s our way of spreading positivity and laughter, knowing that even a small dose of optimism can make a meaningful impact.
In everything I do, whether it’s acting, entrepreneurship, or podcasting, my ultimate goal is to make a positive difference. I believe that by bringing positivity and joy into my work, I can contribute to a better and more uplifting world for those around me. Each day is a new opportunity to create something wonderful, and I’m excited to continue this journey, sharing my passions with the world and leaving a positive mark wherever I go.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about LA is the limitless possibilities it holds and the unexpected opportunities that can come your way at any moment. The city creates an environment where dreams can turn into reality. As long as you stay prepared and open-minded, exciting ventures are always just around the corner.
However, one thing that took me by surprise and, admittedly, I like the least about LA is the ocean’s colder temperature. But hey, it’s a small trade-off for all the incredible experiences this city has to offer!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11077716/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirby.ellwood/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/kirby.ellwood
Image Credits
For headshot (Bella Saville Photography)
