Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is actor, producer, and soon-to-be entrepreneur Karis MacDougall, who’s company looks to give back to the arts while simultaneously changing the technology used in the entertainment industry…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am an actor, producer, and have recently co-founded a company in the technology and entertainment sector. (Big news coming soon!)
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I’ve been acting since the age of 15. I grew up performing circus arts, and joined an acting agency after performing on camera. I’ve also been a freelance producer for over 10 years. I’m inspired by creating and performing in my work. Most recently, I combined my acting and entrepreneurial spirit to co-found a company that gives back to the arts while at the same time changing the technology used in the entertainment industry.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Best part: I can achieve what I set my mind on accomplishing and that means no day is ever the same. I thrive on variety, and love the creative aspects of collaborating with great directors, actors, and crew.
Challenging part: Every day is a hustle. I have to stay focused, work hard, and make sure I don’t let myself get distracted with outside things going on. Nothing in this career is set in stone. Stability can at times be out the window!
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
If I don’t get enough sleep, my work life is off and, in turn, can affect my personal life. I aim for eight hours of sleep (if I can fit in in!)
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I’m going to rephrase and answer with GOALS over the next five years – 1. to act in an off Broadway play; 2. To have a notable role in a television show in Canada or the US; 3. to develop our purpose-driven company into a technology platform which changes the entertainment industry; 4. Oh, and to live a bi-coastal lifestyle… three months in Los Angeles every year.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Acting is a continuous cycle of rejection. The most ironic part is actors tend to be the most sensitive. The trick: I wrap my head around the concept that auditioning is MY JOB, and if I land the role, that’s the vacation and the fun part.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Great question. Success is an individual thing; what I deem to be successful may not be someone else’s definition of success. Success for me is being better today than I was yesterday, and not as good as I am going to be tomorrow. I think money gives us the freedom to do the things we love, so yes I see the value and importance of money. (Not to mention I have a lifestyle that doesn’t come cheaply). But no, I don’t think money equals happiness. What brings me the most joy is time spent with my family and friends and discovering the world!
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
In terms of acting, it’s a tie between being the face of the “Rosetta Stone” French campaign and playing a lead role in a series called “Vain: The Sordid Story of Christian Vain” where I played a snobby British book editor. Producing-wise, I work with Getty Images and have the chance to interview celebrities and well-known public figures. Two highlights have been interviewing Adam Sandler and Tom McCarthy for their new movie The Cobbler, and interviewing important women during The Glamour Women of the Year Awards like Chelsea Clinton, Arianna Huffington and Lupita Nyong’o.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
My advice to young professionals is to be persistent, determined, and stay confident that what you want to pursue can be achieved. Sometimes in life it’s about timing, sometimes it’s about luck. And of course you have to train and have the talent – but if you don’t put yourself out there and try, you’ll never know what could have been.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Toronto: Enoteca Sociale
New York: L’Artusi
Both are unpretentious, stylish and have amazing food!
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
“Me” time is so important! Fitness almost everyday – either a run, yoga, boxing or Pilates class. I love learning, and am always reading books to improve the way I do business, act or connect with people with different backgrounds. Design magazines are a guilty pleasure. Travelling is also something that feeds my soul, with people or solo.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I have a few:
To Relax & Unwind: Tulum, Mexico
To escape for the winter: Los Angeles, California
For a romantic getaway: Capri, Italy
A cultural escape: Paris, France or Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tailor made clothes and a unique getaway: Hoi An, Vietnam
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
“I did it my way” by Frank Sinatra.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I might be a children’s theatrical agent or start a perfume line.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I feel strongly about, and work with, two charities. First, “The Art of Elysium,” which brings actors, musicians, and fine artists into hospitals to be with children battling serious medical conditions. There is a mutual exchange of hope and appreciation when artists share time and their talent with children coping with the difficult emotional challenges of illness and hospitalization.
Second, “New York Cares,” which is a terrific organization that works with youth, seniors, the homeless and with adult education. I volunteer time and work with inner city youth at the kindergarten level.
Also I love, support and believe in “Pencils of Promise,” making sure children are given an opportunity for an education. They build schools and increase educational opportunity in the developing world.
What to you is notable?
People who realize creating a company that serves the greater good and gives back to society, brings them far more happiness, sustainability, and financial security than they ever thought possible.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone (sights on the 6!)
#NOTABLE
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