Meet Monica Mathis | Actress & Mom

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

Hi Monica, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success, to me, isn’t measured by fame, followers, or how many projects I’ve booked. It’s about building a life that makes my son proud while pursuing the career I love.

As a mom, success means being present. It means creating a stable, loving environment for my child, showing him what resilience looks like, and making sure he always knows he’s my greatest role.

As an actress, success means continuing to grow, challenge myself creatively, and tell stories that matter. It’s having the courage to chase my dreams, even when the path isn’t easy, and refusing to give up on what I’m passionate about.

Real success is finding balance between the two: proving that I can be both a dedicated mother and a driven woman with big dreams. It’s knowing that my child sees me work hard, overcome obstacles, and pursue happiness unapologetically.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started my journey in the entertainment industry while I was still in high school, balancing auditions, long days on set, and maintaining good grades. It wasn’t always easy, but I learned early on the importance of discipline, time management, and staying committed to my goals even when things became challenging.

What began as background work quickly turned into opportunities I never imagined. Through hard work, consistency, and a willingness to learn, I was able to advance from background roles to becoming a professional dancer and later earning a principal role on another project. Each experience taught me something new and helped shape the performer and person I am today.

As an actress, I strive to bring authenticity, passion, and professionalism to every set I step onto. I believe what sets me apart is my resilience and adaptability. The entertainment industry can be unpredictable, and I’ve learned that success rarely happens overnight. There are moments of excitement and accomplishment, but there are also setbacks, rejections, and periods of waiting. I’ve learned to view those challenges as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that everyone is on their own journey. It’s easy to compare yourself to others in an industry where success is so visible, but I’ve realized that comparison only distracts you from your own path. What’s meant for you won’t pass you by. Staying focused on your personal goals, celebrating others’ achievements, and trusting your timing has made all the difference.

Today, I’m proud not only of the work I’ve done but also of the example I’m setting for my son. I want him to see that it’s possible to chase your dreams while staying grounded in your values, working hard, and never giving up.

I want the world to know that my story is one of perseverance, faith, and passion. I’m still growing, still learning, and still pursuing the dreams I had as a young girl—but now with an even deeper purpose behind everything I do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit me in Buckhead for a week, I’d skip the tourist traps and show them the places that make Atlanta feel like home. I’m a huge fan of hole-in-the-wall spots, especially when it comes to food, and Atlanta has some of the best hidden gems around.

Our mornings would start with coffee and breakfast at local cafés like Little Tart Bakeshop or a cozy brunch spot tucked away in the neighborhood. For lunch and dinner, we’d definitely be trying as much Mexican food as possible—everything from authentic taquerias to family-owned restaurants with the best street tacos and homemade queso.

Of course, we’d spend time exploring the Buckhead Village District, shopping, and walking around some of my favorite areas like Chastain Park and the Atlanta BeltLine. I’d also take them to Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market because they’re great places to eat, shop, and experience the energy of the city.

Since I’m in the entertainment industry, we’d have to check out Atlanta’s film scene, too. Whether it’s visiting iconic filming locations or sharing stories about life on set, it’s one of the things that makes this city so special to me.

For nightlife, Buckhead has so many options, but I love places with great music, good energy, and a laid-back atmosphere where you can actually enjoy time with friends.

What I love most about Atlanta is that there’s truly something for everyone. You can find incredible food, beautiful parks, live music, and hidden gems all within a few miles of each other. It’s a city full of creativity, opportunity, and culture—and no matter how much it grows, I’ll always appreciate the local spots and the people who make it feel like home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, all glory goes to God. My faith has carried me through every season of my life and career, especially during the moments when I doubted myself or faced challenges that felt impossible to overcome. I truly believe that every opportunity, lesson, and blessing I’ve received has been part of His plan.

I also want to dedicate this shoutout to my mom. From the very beginning, she has been my biggest supporter and strongest encourager. She has believed in my dreams even when I struggled to believe in myself. Whether it was driving me to classes, cheering me on from the sidelines, helping me navigate motherhood, or simply reminding me not to give up, she has been there every step of the way.

As an actress and a mom, balancing so many roles can be challenging, but having someone who continually pours love, support, and encouragement into you makes all the difference. My mom has never let me quit on myself, and her unwavering belief in me has helped shape the woman I am today.

None of my success would be possible without God leading my path and my mom standing beside me through it all. I am endlessly grateful for both.

Instagram: @monicabrookemathis

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1YgFCwqWVL/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9345142/

Image Credits
Wendy Smith and Hollywood Headshots