IG: @entrepreneurialhippy
Welcome, LaTangela! We’re delighted to have the opportunity to speak with you today.
You captured audiences portraying the iconic character “Maritza” on the beloved series Taina. Looking back, how did that early experience shape your passion for acting and influence the woman and creative you are today?
I am definitely blessed to have had the opportunity to portray a character that is considered iconic in some spaces. “Maritza” was so much fun. Who doesn’t love a good villain? They get away with so much that we can’t get away with in real life. It was a privilege to be part of that cast. It was special, and we were truly a family on and off camera. A Series Regular is considered the holy grail in our industry. Originally I was only cast for 6 episodes. After filming those episodes, the president of Nickelodeon at the time, Albie Hecht, requested me to be a series regular. I remember the day I received that call. It changed my life. So, I will say that role taught me to stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. It turned me into a seasoned actress. I also learned the true art of comedic timing and how to handle the weight of a series regular role. It was a game changer for me.
I saw your riveting performance in A Mother’s Confession on Tubi, where you portray Lorraine—a layered character navigating complex emotions and circumstances. How did you prepare to bring authenticity and depth to the role?
I was excited to play Lorraine because she was unexpected. I am known for portraying the over the top comedic character of Maritza. I wanted a role that would show people that I have range. As far as inspiration, unfortunately I think most of us have been exposed to the unpleasant parts of life to a certain extent. I have seen addiction in my own family. As an actress, I try to draw from what is real. If I haven’t experienced that exact thing, I find the essence of it in something. Lorraine is familiar to me and I used that. I didn’t want to recognize myself. I am sure a lot of people know somebody like Lorraine. I hope to do more roles that force me to stretch myself. I call it “shape shift acting”. I want to be a shape shifter.
DP John Umanzor (Megamind Media /Sunshine films)
IG: @limitlessjohn
Many people know you as an actress, but your entrepreneurial success on Shark Tank revealed another side of your drive and determination. What inspired you to step into the world of business, and what did that experience teach you about believing in your vision?
I honestly have always been a do-er and I have also always seen myself being an entrepreneur in some fashion. If I have an idea, I will usually act on it. Failure doesn’t kill. The lack of trying does. I don’t ever want to wonder, “What would’ve happened if I would have tried?”
Can you tell us about Grease Bags, your invention, and what inspired you to create it?
I love to cook, and when used cooking oils became a nuisance to dispose of, I started thinking of a solution. I also love science, so I enjoyed being down the rabbit hole of finding an eco-friendly answer to the problem.
Grease Bags is 100% biodegradable and compostable. They are zero plastic and zero waste…down to the adhesive seal. The bags absorb used cooking oil or any oil based liquid waste, encapsulates it with a microbe-based absorbent, and converts the waste into a substance that will introduce nutrients into and regenerate soil.
Waste is a huge problem in this country. I wanted a product that didn’t contribute to that. I ended up with one that can actually be a part of the solution, and that was a bonus. I’m proud of the end result.
Grease Bags is a prime example that if you can see it in your mind, it’s real. I also have always seen myself on Shark Tank, and that too became a reality. Visualization is a very effective practice. I can testify to that.
As someone who continues to inspire through entertainment, entrepreneurship, authorship, and advocacy, how are you able to find balance and what legacy do you ultimately hope to leave for the next generation navigating both their dreams and the digital world?
I will be honest and say that it’s not easy. Just when I think I have figured it out, I oftentimes find myself back on a hamster wheel. Although my son is now an adult, I am still very much a Mom and now Momager as I help him navigate his new music career. My experience and mistakes now serve him as he finds his own way in this crazy entertainment world. He is also teaching me a few things when it comes to this digital world. These kids were born into it, so what is challenging for us is second nature for them. At the same time, some old methods still ring true. I am trying to pass that on to my son. Hopefully it helps create a solid foundation for him to build on. I think the perfect recipe for success is blending both worlds, the old and the new. I am still learning that.
When it comes to self-care, what practices or routines do you incorporate to protect your peace and support your mental well-being?
Limit the noise. Don’t be afraid to put the phone down or turn the TV off. Meditate. I am loner, but I truly do love to socialize. I am just very selective. I have learned to no longer allow others to disturb my peace. I lose focus and I can’t afford to do that. I think the healthiest thing for your mental health is boundaries.
Thank you so much, LaTangela!
Keep up with LaTangela:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam_latangela?igsh=ZWNqcTcxa2h5bzNp
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