Cody Hackman: Today’s Notable Young Professional

Today’s Notable Young Professional is actor Cody Hackman, who is also a five-time world karate champion, starring in ‘Tapped Out’, and is shooting ‘Gridlocked’ with Danny Glover this summer. You’d be right to assume his job doesn’t feel like “work”…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I really don’t consider acting a job. It’s not work if you love what you do. I act, I do my own stunts as often as possible, I train, and I produce movies.

Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I opened up my production company, Hackybox Pictures, in 2013. The inspiration was to produce Hollywood-calibre films that are Canadian made. You may have noticed in the past that anything that was Canadian had a certain look to it; I wanted to change that by doing commercial movies for a worldwide audience.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is getting to interact with other actors and share stories and experiences. The most challenging part is being away from family and friends while working.

What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
When summer goes by and I haven’t even gone to the beach to relax, kick back and have a beer, I know I’m working too much. I’m literally always working.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In a few highly successful studio films (fingers crossed).

What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
I remember when I first started acting I was very nervous and I was ready to quit after the first two weeks. Then it just clicked. I just had to be myself and relax into it.

What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Money gives you options and opportunities. It does not necessarily equal happiness.

Happiness comes when what you think, what you say, and what you do are aligned and in harmony. I think Ghandi said that and it’s a great way of looking at life.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
When I was competing as a martial artist and I won my first world title. As an actor it was starring in Tapped Out (modern day Karate Kid) working alongside the original cobra kai sensei Martin Kove. It’s a movie that I used to rent daily when I was a kid.

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
There is no such thing as the word NO. You can be whoever you want to be – just be persistent and don’t make excuses.

Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
In L.A a place called La Poubelle Bistro on Franklin Street. Very private, and great food!

When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Hmm, I love just doing nothing and just being a home body when I’m not travelling. Love the feeling of being in my own bed.

Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I love Italy, and would like to eventually spend more time there. I have some Italian lineage so I’m drawn to the country.

If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
City of Angels by Thirty Seconds to Mars. I can relate to every sentence in that song.

If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
Probably still teaching martial arts to youth. I believe it’s one of the best things for kids and families. It changed my life.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Anything cancer-related. In the last couple years I have experienced some personal losses.

What to you is notable?
I think being recognized for your art and being able to affect people on a personal level is notable. If you can entertain people, make them laugh, make them cry all while doing what you love, you are living the dream.

Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
I used to be into BlackBerry as I like to support Canadian brands but I’ve recently become an iPhone man.

#NOTABLE 

Want more updates on the most Notable things happening so you know before your colleagues do? Get our exclusive newsletter here and follow us on Twitter for all the latest.