Why I Left The Acting Industry... For Plants 🌿

Why I left the acting industry for plants - leaving the acting industry - life as an actor my experience - drama school storytime - repot and chat storytime - audition storytime
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➡️ For BONUS planty content with me (and Joli), feel free to check out our Patreon!
/ thejunglehaven
🌿🌱
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DISCLAIMER - All views/opinions shared are my own. I realise a lot of the experiences I talk about in this video aren’t unique to me, and are things that 99% of actors in the industry will go through at some point or another, often for years on end, and for much longer periods of time than myself. I spent 16 years in the industry, and simply felt that it was time for me to take a step back for a while to focus more on myself and explore other avenues that were bringing me happiness and fulfilment.
Although I wanted to share my experience in this video, it feels quite scary to put out there, because it’s been so personal and such a big part of who I am. I realise it’s very different from the content I usually share here on my channel (and if you’re simply here for planty educational stuff, by all means skip to another of my videos), but it felt really good to talk through and I hope it was interesting to some of you 💚
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Facebook Houseplant Community:
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#StoryTime #RepotAndChat
* Some of the links included are affiliate links, meaning that if you buy a product I will receive a small amount of profit :) x

[@TheJungleHaven]

Just a little disclaimer - All views/opinions shared are my own. I realise a lot of the experiences I talk about in this video aren’t unique to me, and are things that 99% of actors in the industry will go through at some point or another, often for years on end, and for much longer periods of time than myself. I spent 16 years in the industry, and simply felt that it was time for me to take a step back for a while to focus more on myself and explore other avenues that were bringing me happiness and fulfilment. Although I wanted to share my experience in this video, it feels quite scary to put out there, because it’s been so personal and such a big part of who I am. I realise it’s very different from the content I usually share here on my channel (and if you’re simply here for planty educational stuff, by all means skip to another of my videos), but it felt really good to talk through and I hope it was interesting to some of you 💚

[@danaghostlaw3322]

What was the name of your last short film? I love short films!

[@cigdemsentekin1672]

I loved to see another piece of you apart from the plants. Your content makes me feel like listening to a plant lover friend anyway. Utterly appreciate your being so vulnerable and open as a real person. Lots of love to you, Yolie and plant family 🥰❤️

[@JohnnyWin]

It's so beautiful and nice to hear your journey with acting. I was a new nurse and a year in, the pandemic hit. Working through the entire pandemic wore me down physically and mentally. I didn't want to do nursing anymore because my passion for it was gone. I stuck around because I felt like I was making my co-workers drown an already sinking ship. I decided it was time to focus on myself and do what makes me happy - So I stepped away from nursing. Your story makes me realize that as humans, we are meant to go on not just one but many journeys in our lives. Maybe I'll return to nursing again, but only if that passion ever returns.

[@LulaMae21]

I'm a nurse as well, and nearly burnt out completely less than a year into my career (several years before the pandemic). I can only imagine how it would have been to be so new at the start of the pandemic, but then, if I didn't work where I do (with neonates), I probably wouldn't be working in hospital anymore, either. Hope you can find something you enjoy, whether in nursing or not.

[@AmericanaGardens]

You are/ were appreciated more than you know. Speaking from a person who was in hospital during pandemic.

[@PlantsofJoy]

Hello there fellow LAMDA plant lover. I went to LAMDA too and did the tech course a couple(ish) years before you probably. This video was so relatable to my experience in technical theatre, drama school, and my decision to leave theatre. Thank you so much for sharing. It was very emotional watching. You're a legend!

[@victoriagrapsidou3474]

What a story Claire!! You at least had your dream come true! It's so fulfilling to come around full circle in your acting - theatre experience! With your ups and downs regardless 🙂

[@KaylasPlants]

That was really awesome to just hear your story and what else you are passionate about. I really enjoyed hearing you talk about the ups and downs and just everything! Thank you for sharing!🥰

[@Lea31706]

You haven’t failed it’s just a plot change x

[@MOTHERHUSH]

Thanks for sharing a snippit of yer life with us henny! 🌞

[@billkelly4895]

If you're job does your heart good then live will be good!! You have done this old man's heart and hobby love a world of good!! Thank you and may everything be good for you!!

[@nicole__toni]

I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason Claire😇 and I’m glad you have chosen to do what makes you happy! We can see your passion in what you are doing right now and I can see that plants bring you so much joy💚 if it’s meant to be, you will end up back in the industry but clearly you are happy where you are now and that’s the important thing xx

[@amandacyrus6789]

Hugs! Your an amazing person & such an inspiration, your videos bring me such joy- I hope you never stop ❤️

[@nessaMantha]

Just want to say I’ve loved your videos ever since I found you and I appreciate ALL of your content!! ✨💛 and obvi your beautiful luscious plants are total goals!!

[@peggymalabuyoc9150]

Thank you for sharing a portion of your life with us. Acting had to be a great learning experience. So glad you were able to have this to enhance and enrich your life! 👌👏🥰

[@kerttulumi1468]

Highly educated leather designer (almost 10 years) turned into User Experience Designer (digital IT products) who works in design agency. Good to hear your story. Plants have saved my mental sanity more than once.

[@debbiehinch3369]

I loved this. Thank you for letting us into this part of your life. I genuinely felt I was sat listening to a pal, just having a chat over a brew. So lovely. Edit: Where can we see your horror film?!

[@brookehicks8335]

Hearing your story made me think about how the industry seems to blame actors for giving up, when the truth is the industry just doesn’t have the room for everyone. You worked so hard and persevered, but you found something else that makes you happy and makes you money! There’s no shame in that. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@shilohndrah]

Your insights are extremely interesting, and your outlook is so sunny and engaged 😊🌻

[@Mimi-fr8gf]

You are such an inspiration and WOW what a story ♥️ I wish you all the best!

[@jessicapetrin1655]

How did I miss this video? Claire, I love your channel and love that you shared your very unique experience. I can tell your passion by how you talk about it. Thanks so much for sharing :)

[@mickgissane9181]

Thank you for being so frank and honest, I really wish you the best with KZbin. :)

[@crochetqueen6440]

I love listening to you Claire! I don't know you besides this weird parasocial thing that social media/youtube is but for anyone in this world that I like, and even the ones I don't - I just want people to be happy and it sounds like you are. I think anyone needs balance in their life and if it's just huge swings from these massive highs to low all the time, whether that's through your career, or through brain imbalances, or addiction, it's not sustainable in the long term and I'm glad you made the best decision for you! Plus more videos to watch for me, right ;)

[@graceaxisa4213]

Thank you for sharing your story, Claire. I think you described the incredible 'highs' and extreme lows of acting perfectly. You're right, the stable happy in-between is far healthier and less soul destroying. Rejection can make us second guess ourselves and constantly putting ourselves in that position does us no favours. I love your channel, your sunny disposition and relaxed manner. You have surrounded yourself with something you love. That's what life is about x

[@finefoliage]

Really interesting! Loved it! Thanks for sharing Claire! Getting excited for you for your move! Will be lovely for you to get settled in and find a home for all your plants! Keep up the great work 👍 xx

[@CLADunlap]

I’m happy that you decided to make planty content for KZbin. You are an excellent plant parent and I have learned many things from you.

[@sunflowerhill4349]

I love hearing peoples' stories, thank you for sharing and doing so honestly :) I hope you find much joy in all the things you choose to do :) I can image that acting would be a really cut throat tough industry!

[@jennifermusic3781]

I just have to say, I love watching your videos! They've become part of my night-time routine. Plus, I've learned so much about plants and am finding more and more varieties I want just listening to you talk about them! I really appreciate you that you highlight so many different kinds and not just the rare plants. You're adorable!

[@mariemenhams2367]

Thanks for sharing your story Claire. Really interesting. It sounds like you are exactly where you should be right now. I am sure your acting skills have and will continue to be part of your journey. Love watching your videos, they are so natural.

[@williamjohnson3938]

Oh my god I LOVED the golden compass

[@marileeknudsen]

Thank you for sharing you! I have appreciated your plant expertise and am so glad to hear your story on top of learning more about my life long love of house plants. Only in the last six months have I been able to fully develop a collection. I am growing…in my 70’s. Thank you and best wishes!!

[@deborahmcsweeney1650]

This was an awesome share! When you close one door, another always opens. And you are loved on KZbin being you! You don't have to be a character that people love, we love you for who you are as a person! Acting sounds depressing more than uplifting! Lol Everything will work out exactly as it should! Dye your hair whatever color you want! Do what you want! I think now you are free!!!!

[@anniefraser2599]

Thank you for sharing! speaking of plants makes a gardener smile! You are proof of that! Love your plants as well as your knowledge of plants. Have a happy day!

[@RockstadAndLife]

Thank you for sharing your story Claire! Myself and many others resonate with these struggles I'm sure; it sounds like zookeeping is very similar to the acting industry with reaching out to everyone and hearing nothing back. I took a three year break from it, then an opportunity arose and I'm now full time with benefits at my local zoo. Sometimes you really do have to wait for your time.

[@dark.and.planty]

I can totally relate to your story. I am a composer/tattoo artist turning into computer programmer 😅 Still writing music and hoping to put out an album! But my expectations have changed and my mental health and emotional stability have become a priority ❤ I love your channel!

[@orchidswithnina]

I never knew you where/are an actress. But it makes sense, your voice is just so clear and articulate. Good luck for all your future endeavours. I love your channel 😍

[@trevorclark8376]

Absolutely wonderful video really enjoyed it.lovely comments from your plant family 🤗

[@Dollsanity]

I didn’t pay attention to anything planty you were doing because your story is so very interesting. I really enjoyed it. You got to experience both the acting and plant world. Win win 😃

[@JungleFloorCreative]

thanks for sharing your story. i love lyra shes such a great character !!

[@RootsReady]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@nehab4148]

Oh my gosh you went to RADA and LAMDA, and you performed at the Globe!? Fantastic schools and iconic theatre. I only ever did Speech & Drama at school which I loved, but then at sixth form I did Drama for A levels and hated it too. You speak so well and you’re able to empathise with everyone so beautifully, I can definitely see the benefit of your background coming through in your videos, Claire ☺️

[@WholesomeHouseplants]

This was such an interesting watch Claire! My great Auntie is an actress! She’s in her late 80s but still very active in both film and theatre - she’s a fascinating woman! I’ve been thinking of starting up planty KZbin again and this was very inspiring for me 😊❤️ xxx

[@charlotteemma7931]

Please do start your YT channel again if you can! I enjoyed your videos xx

[@Jayl__]

Very brave of you that talked about your failures. Thanks for sharing.

[@AwakenYourSensory]

I so love your spirit Claire

[@asyd2905]

I hope you get a chance to present a gardening show on tele. It would be the perfect mash up of all your talents.

[@SteveNoblin]

That is so interesting. I was in the acting industry also but not as far as you went. I went as far as being an extra in a couple of movies and some local theater. I miss it. It was loads of fun!

[@thepsychicplantlady]

We always think we need to do these things right now or never but it’s so not true! I’m so proud of you for stepping away because it was the right thing to you right now and what the time is right you will know ❤️❤️❤️

[@sylviagutierrez7676]

Is good not to closed that door,but ur so happy at present keep enjoying your planting days, 💚🌵🌱☘️

[@sprinkledbeanies760]

Hi Claire I can imagine you being an actress so beautiful and great to watch something special about you and love your honesty your great at growing fabulous plants we all love to watch you your beautiful face and kind heart shines through❤️❤️

[@jessicacarter5606]

THANKS FOR SHARING

[@Greenplantguide]

Great story. Lucky you and Good luck💚💚💚✌✌✌

[@AlexandraAttics222]

Let us see your showreel! I am so interested in your work :)

[@YellowPineappleHoyas]

I get the part about thinking your career is part of your. identity.. At the age of 34, i had to leave the workplace (I worked in Public Relations) due to chronic and worsening illness and it was really really hard to accept that my life was not going to be what i thought it was going to be like. I lost many of the connections I made when I worked in PR, but have made so many more through the plant community and through my advocacy work. During the time after i stopped working, I was not very happy and when trying to "find myself", I found Buddhism, which to my surprise was extremely helpful and I changed from an unhappy person wanting something from my life I could not have, into a happy person that is mostly content with the way things are in life.

[@chris-annlederer415]

You are an amazing lady.

[@notezbeinggreencm]

You have such a presence on your videos, you are a natural beauty, and obviously very clever. If you want to be an actor you would be wonderful. 🙂

[@jimmywoody6962]

Hi Clare, great video as always! 👍. I am wanting to repot my devils ivy as it is out growing the 15cm nursery pot but i dont know what pot go with. I want to keep it hanging but i dont want to pay for a hanging clay pot each time. Will a standard 20cm nursery pot do if i wrap it in rope like in one of your other videos or should i go with one of the hanging nursery pots with the built in drip tray? Just wonding what you do with yours as i dont remember you doing a repotting vid with one

[@adinachichirau201]

I was so impressed with your acting journey,I will carry on if I was in your shoes because of our parents guidance that is "Never give up on our dreams "but I understand because of my own experience in Make up industry,the same journey like you,the same ambition like you but in the end I had to stop and I never regretted even thou I was dreaming to be in Fashion Make up industry,but in your case you still young and I will carry on with acting,you have you tube but even you tube it is not forever job,I know it is not easy but you never know that day when you are landing for an amazing project and a important role that will change your life forever 🤗😍

[@victorinacaro2626]

Interesting, it is a touch industry. The numbers here in the states is that only 1% of actors are actually working. I think you should continue with your KZbin channel until you don't get any joy from it. Or balance both. It is not unheard of actors working like crazy one year and having nothing the following one year. Anyway, I think the camera loves you. All the best.🙂

[@megandavis3466]

i have wavy hair and my bangs do the same flip out can you give care advise on calathea orbifolia, i am struggleing to keep them alive.

[@anniefraser2599]

Question please. Do you decorate your terra cotta pots yourself?

[@glen4075]

She does, there are some videos where you see her doing them with string she has around etc. she is super talented isn’t she! 🪴😊

[@rosewagner4018]

So enjoyed this video, my daughter is trying to make it big in NYC. It’s hard, she has to pay that high rent, do you know what I mean. Anyway, I will support her in whatever she wants to do. Thank you.

[@Luciwho1]

maybe try community theater, I know you don't get paid, but you'd still get the "high"... ; )

[@nessaMantha]

Also! Go dye your hair whatever color YOU want!!! 😂😁 do what makes you happy!

[@gslmakeup8040]

But what happened to the man in the film? Was Piotr okay?? Did he get a colostomy bag?? 😭😭😭

[@gphx]

But what will Daisy Ridley do without her double?

[@Angela-lo5bw]

To be fair. 4-500 for a good, solid amount of headshots is a perfectly fine price. It sounds like a lot. But as a photographer myself, I can tell you that there is a whole lot of time going into those headshots. Most of us are not really bringing in buckets of money. ;)

[@TheJungleHaven]

Hey Angela - I 100% agree and totally respect this! I wasn't complaining at the price of the headshots - purely at the fact that if you're a jobbing actor and not bringing in a lot, it is a lot of money to spend (however, necessary and money well spent). Very grateful for the headshots and photographers I worked with x

[@Angela-lo5bw]

@@TheJungleHaven Ah, I must have misunderstood you then. ;) It is a whole load of money to spend. I totally get that!

[@sandy_carpetsthesecond5013]

I mean, if we're asking non-planty questions. Then I don't have a question, I have an emergency request. DROP YOUR SKINCARE AND HAIRCARE ROUTINE QUEEN, PLEASE! I BEG!

[@sierra734]

Thanks for sharing your story , it will Always be a part of You🫶 Plants are one of the few things that I really get pure joy out of , also my family and dog 🐕 and that I’m so thankful for . Glad I found your channel, people always say to me , you could have a KZbin channel with your plant knowledge! Nope I’m too camera shy always have been , don’t know anything about editing. I’d rather Grow and sell 💕🌹💕🌹💕🌹😊🫶 TFS