Looking back at season 1 of This is Us, you described Kate, where she was then, as a, “very troubled and broken girl.” Yet, she has come such a long way to who Kate is at the end of season 4. Can you tell us a bit more about where you see the parallels with your own life and journey? 

I feel that Kate is a lot of who I used to be. She and I allowed the guilt and insecurities that plagued us to inform our choices.  Understanding our past helps to heal our present and she and I are doing that together, which is such a beautiful gift I didn’t know I’d find when I booked the role.

What do you think is sometimes required for someone to believe they can be whole, creative, and resourceful so they can recognize their strengths and potential?

I believe understanding that simply being here on this plane of existence means you are purposeful. Not everyone was born with a loving cheerleader who had their back. Learning that estimable acts create self-esteem was a big one for me. Also, trial and error are important to finding out what it is you really love. It’s a process and being gentle with yourself while finding out your strengths is vital to that. Everything we do is a lesson - take what you want and need - leave the rest.

Why do you think people relate so much to Kate and what can they learn from her? 

She is imperfect, but full of heart. She battles a lot of real-life issues. She is processing and course correcting in real time. I think she really shows people how to ‘suit up and show up’ no matter what.

How much and in what ways has Kate helped you transform?  

Playing a vulnerable character on a network show has made room for me to feel more vulnerable in very honest ways personally and professionally. To ride the breaking waves instead of being too afraid to get in the water.

You often talk about the importance of self-care. Can you share with us the things you do daily to care for yourself and how you overcome the blocks and hurdles of doing those? 

I have a running daily gratitude list. I pray, meditate and journal as often as I can. I also see a therapist weekly. Thank heavens! 

Your first single, “Talking to God,” a life-long dream of yours, was recently released. What is the deeply personal message you are telling in the song?  

This song was actually found at an Ashley Mcbryde Writers Retreat, but when I heard it, I loved it and felt like I had lived it. It felt honest to be a storyteller of the song. I related to the way we pray, ask for what it is we want, and question why we might not receive what our desires are. I also know what it feels like to pray for others even if they aren’t a part of your life anymore. I believe in the old saying, ‘You can’t keep anything you don’t give away.’ 

Can you tell us what gives you inspiration and purpose in your life? 

Love. I am so motivated by the cyclical energy of love. I truly believe that’s where everything begins and ends. 

What is next for you? 

A wonderful author, Kara Richardson-Whitley, wrote an autobiographical book of her Mt. Kilimanjaro summit at 300lbs and gave it to me at one of my book tour stops. I couldn’t put it down and felt so compelled to bring her amazing, yet relatable story of courage and hope to life. Hopefully that will get into production next summer.  I am also currently finishing my untitled debut country album.

If you could give our audience (and your followers) one message, what would it be?

As the saying goes, Follow your heart, it will never lead you astray.