What happens when two performers step back from the relentless grind of the entertainment industry to ask: "Why am I doing this?" This conversation with Abby Vatterot traces our parallel journeys from theater school through Chicago, LA, and back to our Midwest roots, revealing how our creative purposes have evolved along the way.
Remember when success meant constant performing, networking every night, and pushing yourself to exhaustion? We certainly do. Abby and I candidly discuss how we've shifted from that mentality to something more sustainable and authentic. "My why has definitely evolved," Abby shares. "Lately, my why is literally have fun." This refreshing perspective comes after years of pursuing entertainment careers across multiple cities, only to discover unexpected opportunities back home.
We dive deep into the misleading narratives we received in theater school that left us unprepared for industry realities. The idealized notion that success requires abandoning the Midwest for coastal cities gets thoroughly debunked as we share our experiences finding meaningful work in St. Louis and beyond. One particularly humorous revelation: being taught to wear formal attire to auditions only to discover professionals showing up in jeans!
Perhaps the most powerful thread running through our conversation is the journey toward self-compassion. "I don't talk about myself like that anymore," I admit when discussing how I've stopped being harshly self-critical about my career pace. Similarly, Abby describes finding joy in activities completely unrelated to performance – a balance neither of us prioritized in our younger years.
Whether you're a creative professional questioning your path or simply interested in how priorities evolve with age and experience, this episode offers honest insights about finding purpose beyond achievement. As we conclude, Abby perfectly captures our shared realization: "You're going up in the right direction." Sometimes, that acknowledgment is exactly what we need to hear.
Opening quote: Bob Moawad
Opening and Closing Theme song: Produced by Dom L'Amour
Transition Music from Mad Chops Vol. 1 and Mad Chops Vol. 2 by Mad Keys
and
from Piano Soul Vol.1(Loop Pack) by The Modern Producers Team
Featured song: "You Belong to Me" Covered by Dom L'Amour and Abby Vatterott at Davenports Piano Bar in Chicago IL.
Cover art by Studio Mania: Custom Art @studiomania99
Please subscribe to the podcast, and give us a good rating. 5 stars please and thank you. Follow me on @dom_lamour on Instagram. Or at
