BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT a short stint there, she then went to work for Norman Lear at his company, Act 111 Productions. Although the executive side of film gave Nancy a glimpse at an unfamiliar world, she soon realized that she really missed her life as a casting director. She asked herself, “Why did I leave something I was so good at?” So, in the early 90’s, with a ‘new-found’ respect and certainly a deeper appreciation for what she did, Ms. Klopper decided to return to what she knew, and did very well. However, in this industry, when you take a break, during that re-entry period you are no longer the 1st choice (such is life). So Nancy, if people are interested in being a casting director, what should they do to make that happen? Nancy advises people who are interested in pursuing casting as a career, to send resumes to the CSA (Casting Society of America). “Watch lots of movies, go to lots of theatre. You will have to begin by working for a casting director. Be open and willing to learn from someone. Be prepared to do anything. Get coffee, lunch, etc. You can't have an ego get in the way. I had great mentors….the key is to always have your eyes and ears open so that you can learn from them.” I am inspired by Ms. Klopper’s story, and I hope you are, too! Yes, she was lucky (many of us call it blessed) to have been at the right place at the right time in some cases. She could have allowed the education barrier or the formal/major training barrier to hold her back in her 20’s, but she didn’t. What an incredibly courageous woman! I had the pleasure of spending time with Nancy while she was in Atlanta, speaking at a film festival. She was sooooo delightful! We exchanged funny stories, hugs, and lots of laughs. While speaking with Nancy, I was reminded of how important it is to, dare to be different… follow your dreams…. think outside of the box!! These phrases may sound like clichés, but they each apply to Nancy’s story. My friends, her story can be your story as well. Don’t let anyone or anything hold you back from making those things you’ve only dreamed of as a kid (and oftentimes as an adult) become your reality. Just like Ms. Klopper, The Little Girl Who “Knew She Could” (and The Little Engine That Could), tell yourself…. “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can (and you will).” Dream it~ believe it~ do it!! ■
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would like to take this time to thank you for the support that you have given me for The Antidote Show. For the past six months, I have been on sabbatical, praying for direction and allowing God to speak to my heart and to lead me into my next assignment. God has changed my life in a profound way by preparing me for my next journey for him. This journey’s purpose will be for people to know what the Antidote is. God is the Antidote and if we as a people would turn from our wicked ways, only then can he, the Creator, heal our land. This is what the Lord is saying to his people at this time. By applying the Antidote to your life, you will eat the good of the land. God has birthed out a new show called Real Talk, Real Solutions. This show reaches out to the lost soul that needs an ear to hear and to show them through my life how to be a fire of the word as well as pointing them in a Godly direction. My focus with the Antidote Show was to inform the audience of the things that God has done. Now it is time to let the world know that what he did for others he can do for you. Our God loves everyone! He loves us and wants us all to have life more abundantly. We understand that the people need more. They need The Solution and not a solution. Being that God is the Ultimate Antidote to all your situations, we encourage our viewers to get the Antidote. Join me as I reach out for those that need The Solution for their life. Let’s reach out and help those who do not have the Antidote, get the Antidote. Let's embrace them, help them and love them as God loves them. Mershele Brown
TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | NOV/DEC 2012
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