Pump It Up Magazine: Hi Carrie! We’re super excited to have you here with us today. You’ve got such a fascinating and diverse career – from modeling to singing, running a wellness company, and even owning a fashion brand, “Carrie Suzanne.” Let’s dive right in!
Pump It Up Magazine: Q1 – Start of It All
Pump It Up Magazine: You began your journey as a model. Can you tell our readers how you got your start in the world of fashion and modeling? Any fun anecdotes from your early days?
I was learning how to model and act because my goal in the 6th grade was to be a supermodel in magazines. I loved clothes, fashion and music. Madonna was popular and I wanted to be just like her. I did not think I could ever be lead singer until I faced myself and tried.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q2 – Lights, Camera, Action!
Pump It Up Magazine: We’ve heard that you’ve made appearances in TV shows and magazine ads. Can you share some of your favorite moments from your time in the spotlight?
On stage at The Hayloft Supper Club I love playing Marta Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. A few other favorite moments were shooting the “American Woman” video with Lenny Kravits when Astin Powers was out & playing myself in the MTV documentary.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q3 – Music Mania
Pump It Up Magazine: Now you’re a talented singer with a hot new release, “Sobriety (Detox remix).” What made you transition from modeling to music? And who are some of your musical idols that inspire your unique style?
I’m not sure if people will understand this but music literally found me. It came to me and gave me a platform to write and express myself. Growing up I always listened to music with a message. Hip Hop was very influential. I loved positive rappers that taught me non-violence, vegetarianism and equality. I wrote my first rap in college and it was received well. I also grew up on jazz and country. True influencers have been Madonna, MC Lite, KRS-1, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, NYC hardcore, Minor Threat, Fugazi, DeeLite, Blondie, Pat Benatar, Metallica & Bob Marley.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q4 – Wellness Guru
Pump It Up Magazine: You’re also the boss lady behind a wellness company. Can you tell us what motivated you to start this journey into wellness, and what’s the mission behind your company?
I became a certified Yoga Teacher in 2005 but I could not stop drinking. I wanted to help people on a deeper level rather than just physically. That is when I decided to go back to school and get a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. The Mind, Body, Spirit connection is what motivated me to start the journey into wellness. My purpose now is to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q5 – Fashion Forward
Pump It Up Magazine: Speaking of “Carrie Suzanne,” your fashion brand, we’re curious about how it all began. Can you tell our readers what your brand represents in terms of style and values? Any trendy collections you’re particularly proud of?
I love fashion but it can be detrimental to our environment. Materials are so toxic & disposable these days, there is so much waste. It began with the idea that True Hemp can save the planet. I wanted to design ecological fashion that I could perform in. Other companies were doing the pop bottle fiber blends like Patagonia, but it wasn’t edgy and cool.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q6 – Superwoman Syndrome
Pump It Up Magazine: Juggling singing, modeling, running a wellness company, and owning a fashion brand sounds like a superwoman’s job! How do you manage to balance all these different roles so gracefully?
Every morning I begin my day with a 10 minute Mindful Meditation practice. I then write down my intentions and stay close to my higher power. During the day I take time to pause & go for a 20 minute walk & connect with nature. I feel when I “let go and practice the art of allowing” things happen with ease and grace. I get to be present and trust in the flow of life.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q7 – Life’s Lessons
Pump It Up Magazine: Everyone faces challenges on their journey to success. Can you share a few obstacles you’ve overcome and some of your proudest achievements along the way?
I was part of a SAG-AFTRA strike in 2006. It was a challenging decision to not go through with a job I booked. I really needed the money…but because I chose to align with the union I ended up making history! I became the 1st person to join SAG-AFTRA without paying dues. Another personal achievement was passing the California Clinical Exam to become a LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist). In this business the only failure is giving up and quitting. Never give up and you will succeed.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q8 – Words of Wisdom
Pump It Up Magazine: You’ve certainly come a long way! Do you have any personal philosophies or advice for our readers who aspire to follow their dreams, just like you?
Like I just mentioned, the only failure is giving up on your goals and dreams and quitting. Never give up and you will succeed. Believe in yourself and believe that there is an energetic force that is for you. We just have to learn how to be for ourselves too. So many of us are against our own self and we must develop a positive, loving-kindness relationship with our innermost self. This is a process but it is a sweet and gentle new way of treating & being w/YOU!
Pump It Up Magazine: Q9 – What Lies Ahead Pump It Up Magazine: What can your fans and our readers look forward to in your future projects? Any sneak peeks or exciting developments on the horizon?
Hopefully lots of live shows, concerts and festivals. Maybe a North American Tour. I am also working on additional lifestyle products like designing a travel yoga mat, candles, incense and an eco-friendly work-out line.
Pump It Up Magazine: Q10 – Parting Thoughts Pump It Up Magazine: Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to tell our audience? Any cool stories, fun facts, or hidden talents you’d like to share?
Keep growing, Keep Climbing and Keep surprising & impressing yourself! I believe we can choose to believe new ideas that are inspiring, motivating & encouraging to others. It all begins within. It is like the ripple effect. Peace inside, manifesting peace outside, then everywhere in the world.
Pump It Up Magazine: Thank you so much, Carrie! We’re sure our readers will be inspired by your incredible journey and can’t wait to check out your new music, wellness company, and fashion brand! Best of luck with all your future endeavors!
