Cardinal Sigitas TamkevičiusLithuanian Cardinal, Former Soviet Prisoner of Conscience & Champion of Religious Freedom

#SelfMade Sam Joseph Wix Story

Name: #SelfMade Sam Joseph Wix Story
Uploaded: 2015-12-07T14:30:36+00:00
Duration: 59 s
Channel: Cardinal Sigitas Tamkevičius
Description: In this first‑person monologue, Sam Joseph reflects on his move to New York City after acting school and the harsh reality that talent alone doesn’t…

7 Dec 2015 · 1 min

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In this first‑person monologue, Sam Joseph reflects on his move to New York City after acting school and the harsh reality that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. He recounts a series of side jobs—bartending, catering, construction—to make ends meet, noting that construction interfered with his artistic practice. A childhood lesson from his father sparked a renewed love for photography, leading Sam to start a headshot business from his Brooklyn apartment. He began charging a low $50 rate, gradually improving his craft and raising prices as his studio grew. The narrative emphasizes the flexibility the business provides, allowing him to continue acting, stay inspired by the hustle of his clients, and adopt a disciplined, motivated mindset driven by the city’s energy.

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New York City is like no other city in the world. Everyone comes here to live their dreams, and not everyone gets a chance to. I got out of acting school, and I thought as soon as people see what I can do, you know, that'll be it. That's just not how it works. I tried bartending. I tried being a cater waiter. I worked construction for a little bit until I couldn't do it anymore because it was taking away from my craft. And I picked up a camera and I loved it. I remember my dad teaching me how to shoot when I was a kid. Why have I been ignoring this? I'll start doing headshots. You know, at 50 bucks, everyone knows they're not going to be great. But I would get better. I have built a studio in my apartment in Brooklyn. I am definitely not charging $50 anymore. I get to be flexible. I get to go out and be an actor as well. I get to play. And I get to be inspired by these people who come into my home, show me their hustle and show me their drive. When you wake up and you look out your window and you see everyone doing it, I'm going to get up and do it, too.