How do we actually have a stake in the game if we continue to make other people money?
How did you come to the decision to start your own company?
Im in my 30s now, Im just tired of working for folks.
How do we actually have a stake in the game if we continue to make other people money?
With everything thats happening in the world, ownership is something that Ive always thought about.
You want established income coming in, because it is a bit of a risk.
It was definitely hard because I also get very impatient.
Whats an average day in the life of ChiChi?
I have a bad habit of not eating breakfast.
Im now going to practice shutting my phone off and maybe exercising, eating breakfast.
Making sure Im submitting all of the projects, Im doing a day of pitching.
Im now adding in a few consultations per day.
I just get started pitching my clients and finding them work.
I know one Black female manager in New York that has her own company.
What was it like pivoting during the pandemic to start your own business?
Being a Black female-owned management company is [relatively] unheard of.
Im one of very few; let me just do it.
What challenges have you met as a Black woman in the industry?
Lets say someone has five African American actors in their 20s.
They have this whole thing about filling certain types.
Most of my clients are African-American, but theres so much diversity within African-Americans.
Everyone has different backgrounds.
I dont want to feel like I only have to have one key in of client.
If a person doesnt have a big resume, it can be kind of a name game.
Sometimes I will pitch my clients and someone will say they are looking for bigger names.
What do you say to entrepreneurs who also wear a lot of hats?
It does help to have focus.
I was bouncing all over the place.
So it definitely helps to figure out what you want to do then focus on that.
I had to work in casting first to get those contacts I need now as I pitch my clients.
How important is it for you to highlight the resources for people of color?
I think its really important.
People are complaining theres not enough diversity in Broadway.
Who are the producers?
Do you know the top five Black producers?
Do you know the top five Black directors on Broadway?
Its also about making sure people have access to that information.
Personally, I like to share information.
What advice would you give people when it comes to developing a work ethic in media?
I definitely think you have to be okay with working long hours.
Honestly, Ill work until Im done, or actually until I fall asleep.
Im probably doing a lot of different things as Im working.
If you really want to be in the industry you have to be okay with working those long hours.
Even when you do finally have what you want its still going to be a process.
I respect all the kids on Broadway because youre doing eight shows a weekthats a lot of work.
Ill be quick to recommend a therapist, because youre going to need something to help you out.
Theres a lot of rejection.
If youre not getting callbacks you gotta go back and do the homework.
Lets find you a new coach, lets find out whats not landing.
My goal is to have everyone quit their jobs so they can focus 100% on acting.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
