Meet Angel Pean | Actor, Narrator, Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angel Pean and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angel, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Personally, I’m a creature of habit, so when it comes to taking risks and embracing change, I tend to hesitate. I’m a Virgo through and through; I’m analytical by nature. When it came time for me to start taking chances in order to get what I want out of life, I tried not to overthink too much or focus on every single detail. Leaving myself open to the unknown while still being prepared quite literally changed the trajectory of my life.

Taking these risks took me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to grow into who I am today, personally and professionally. Whereas I used to think risks would negatively impact my mental, I’ve found that the natural discovery that comes with it has added so much value to my life. Even now, I do whatever I can to push myself out of routine whenever I’m feeling stuck. And if a risk doesn’t work out exactly how I’d like it to, I take a step back and figure out what I learned from it. Either way, I’m driven closer to where I want to be.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a Film/TV/VO actor, as well as an audiobook narrator. I’ve also recently branched out into directing and content creation. I’m most proud of the fact that I get to be a full time creator. It took a lot to make that happen, and it certainly comes with its challenges. However, it’s exciting being able to consistently work on new concepts while helping to bring a variety of stories to life.

I believe what sets me apart from others is the fact that I am always going to have my own unique perspective and approach with each project I work on. Every individual is going to bring something different to the table, and I’ve learned to lean into my own personal quirks and instincts more and more. Trusting myself when the self doubt is the loudest has made a difference in how I step into every work space.

A lot of trial and error got me to where I am today. The moment when I finally decided to let go of control, and embrace the freedom that comes with being an artist, was the moment I realized I could get a lot farther by simply being who I am vs being different versions of myself I thought people wanted to see. My acting teachers helped me to realize that actually. Once I unlocked that level, there was no going back. I began showing up as my authentic self in every space I came across. From that, I was able to find work and people (friends, coaches, actors. etc.) who felt better aligned. This process was not easy, however the progress did bring ease into my life.

I eventually found myself searching for more ways to stay creative while still being able to support myself financially. Someone introduced the term “investment job” to me, as a replacement for the term “day job”. Let’s face it, most of us artists have to have them, but that shift in mindset made all the difference. I used to work as a server and bartender, but when the pandemic hit, I could no longer work in restaurants. When that happened, I made a promise to myself – I would find a job that would keep me creative while also allowing me to invest in my passion. That’s when I came across the audiobook industry.

The process was long and grueling (not at all what I expected going into it), but worth it. I faced challenges when it came to understanding the business, tech, etc., but stuck it out anyway. My training as an actor gave me a lot of transferable skills. Narrating became the perfect “investment job” that gave me the flexibility and financial security to further my career as an actor. I’ve also had the pleasure of telling some incredible stories, and have given voice to many beautiful, Black characters I wish I had come across in the books I read as a kid. Without taking a chance on a new industry that I really didn’t know anything about, I don’t think I would have been able to take advantage of all the opportunities that came my way these past couple of years, all while fueling my love of storytelling.

I’ve learned that taking a chance on yourself can pay off in unimaginable ways. My passion for acting and storytelling is not arbitrary, but a calling, and it is up to me to find my way in. I’ve learned to trust the process and take my time. Each action, no matter how small, is progress in the right direction. While it can take months, in some cases even years, to establish yourself in a new field, a substantial reward can present itself to you in a matter of minutes. Two years into my narration career, pushing past all of the roadblocks and doubt, I can proudly say that I am an Audie Award winning narrator. I hope to accomplish so much more as well.

I want the world to know that I am grateful. I don’t come from much, and I have gradually climbed the latter of my dreams. It isn’t lost on me how challenging a pursuit in the arts can be. Often times I just had to hope for the best and pivot when the circumstances called for it. The love and support I’ve encountered along the way is immeasurable. With every opportunity that comes my way, I give it my all, because I do not take a single thing for granted.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oooooh, this is a tough one! I honestly don’t get out much (I’m an extroverted introvert), but when my mood calls for it, I love to have a good time!

Some of my favorite restaurants/bars would be…
-Daily Chew (a tucked away cafe with great vibes, food, coffee, and tea)
-Tribeca (restaurant and lounge)
-Poor Calvins (food and drinks are TOO good)
-Grana (Southern Italian spot with the best cheesy garlic bread I’ve ever had in my life, rotating menu, and a cute rooftop)
-Folk Art (BRUNCH! Also please try the sweet potato beignets)

Some of my favorite activities/experiences…
-Ponce City Market
-The Tuftest Guy in Town (Make your own rug!)
-Beat The Bomb ATL (So much fun, especially for groups, and their customer service is unmatched)
-My Sister’s Room on a Friday night (For those who love to dance as much as I do)
-Skintimacy Bar (Create/customize your own skincare products with the owner, Octavia, she is THE best)

Chill vibes…
-A walk on the Beltline
-Inman Park (probably my favorite park/area in Atlanta)
-Chateau Elan (A relaxing mini getaway with delicious food and great wine)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have a laundry list of people to recognize for helping me get to where I am today, but ultimately, that list started with my mom. I never fail to remind myself how blessed I am to have a mother whose belief in me has never faltered.

To Denise, the most selfless woman I know.

I see and honor the way you touch the heart of everyone on your path.

Thank you for being the start to my story.

Website: angelpean.com

Instagram: angelpean_

Image Credits
BLUEPHOTONYC | L Morgan Lee Hitman Co. Nykieria Chaney