"There is enough space to go around - we can ALL show up and do the thing and be successful" - Jennifer Apple.
Ever wonder what it's like to throw out the rulebook and chase your dreams full throttle? That's exactly what we're diving into on today's episode of Was It Chance with our amazing guest Jennifer Apple. From award-winning performances in "The Band's Visit" to launching the game-changing Empowered Artist Collective, Jennifer's all about keeping it real in the wild world of performing arts. She's that rare combo of crazy talented and totally genuine, and she's not afraid to color outside the lines to make things happen. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about everything from her earliest days as a child obsessed with singing to her clever (and slightly sneaky!) strategy for booking gigs. Whether you're a performer yourself or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story, you'll want to hear Jennifer's fresh take on artistic life, why there's room for everyone to shine, and how embracing the messy parts of life can lead to your biggest breakthroughs.
Connect with Jennifer on her website jenniferapple.net, Instagram or TikTok
Check out The Empowered Artist Collective Podcast
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- More about Heather via her website and connect with her on LinkedIn, YouTube, and BlueSky. Listen to The Brave Files
- More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales
EPISODE TAKEAWAYS
- Being a working artist isn't just about talent—it's about being bold enough to create your own opportunities. Jennifer's secret weapon for booking gigs proves that thinking outside the box pays off!
- There's no such thing as failure, only learning experiences. Jennifer's approach: give yourself grace, stay curious, and remember that every "mess up" is just data for your next attempt.
- Success isn't a zero-sum game. As Jennifer puts it, there's plenty of room for everyone to shine in their own unique way. No need to elbow anyone out of the spotlight!
- Want to grow? Embrace the gray areas! Life isn't black and white, and some of the best opportunities come from being comfortable with uncertainty.
- Multi-passionate isn't a curse—it's a superpower. Jennifer shows how leaning into different interests (performing, teaching, entrepreneurship) can create a rich, sustainable artistic life.
- The magic happens in the mess. Jennifer's love for workshopping new plays and musicals reminds us that perfect isn't always better—sometimes the best creativity comes from being willing to get messy and play.
- True artistry comes from staying rooted in authenticity. Through her Empowered Artist Collective, Jennifer proves that vulnerability and truth-telling are just as important as technical skill.