We recently had the chance to connect with Sam Harding and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sam , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I recently went camping in Yellowstone and across Montana with some of my closest friends. One night, we built a big bonfire and cooked soup over the flames. It was quiet, peaceful, and completely still. In that moment, I felt proud to be alive, proud to be fully present, and proud to call those people my friends.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an actor, film producer, and musician based in Los Angeles, originally from Kansas City, Missouri. I grew up on a 20-acre ranch, so being outside and surrounded by God’s creation has always been a big part of who I am. My passion is telling stories that make a difference — whether it’s a performance that gives someone the emotional breakthrough they’ve been needing, or music that simply brings a smile to their face. If my work can help someone get through their day or see the world a little differently, then I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me the value of hard work early on. I grew up doing tough, physical jobs — from construction to hauling dump trucks full of the worst trash you can imagine to the landfill, then heading back to fill them up again. He wanted me to experience environments I wouldn’t necessarily enjoy and to get comfortable working hard, getting my hands dirty, and pushing through discomfort. That upbringing shaped me. It gave me determination, resilience, and a drive to always push toward being the best version of myself.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from failure is accepting how often it’s going to happen — way more than I ever imagined when I started in the film industry. When I first moved to LA, I had this mix of ignorance and confidence that, in its own way, was a superpower. It carried me through a lot of low points. But once that wore off, real perseverance had to take over. I’m still learning and failing in new ways every day, but I’ve realized there are only two outcomes: winning or quitting. And winning always includes failure. So when I fail, I don’t see it as the end — I see it as fuel to push even harder.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I really respect Andrew Garfield for his character. He might not wield power in the traditional sense, but he has a huge influence through his work and the way he lives his life. He’s an incredible actor, yet he remains grounded, genuinely happy, and private. He’s not on social media, and he lets his artistry tell his story without letting fame define him. I admire that balance and hope to build a career where my work speaks for itself while I can still live a life that’s authentically mine.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I had 10 years left to live, I’d focus entirely on giving — sharing God’s word and trying to be a positive influence on everyone I can. I’d let go of selfish ambitions and anything purely self-gratifying, and dedicate myself to helping others and making a meaningful impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.samharding.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_sam_harding_/
