We’re looking forward to introducing you to Timothy Schramm. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Timothy, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Fear. The fear of failure. The fear of loss. Losing your place, not be able to support your family. It appears everyone lives paycheck to paycheck and no job is a guarantee.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born in Austin, TX with a learning disability and epileptic disorder. I grew up in the Arts as a child actor in which my mother was constantly seeking work for me through talent agencies. Unfortunately, my mother became the target of scams having been offered various casting calls and acting opportunities leading her to spend thousands of dollars. In addition, I was often rejected at talent events and agencies either because of my physical appearance, lack of funds, lack of experience, or being seen as a potential handicap to the production. Each rejection led me to believe that because of my disability, I would never have a chance to reach my potential as an Artist. Although discouraged, I sought out ways to stay involved in the entertainment industry growing up.
Eventually, I became a talent scout in Las Vegas and Los Angeles which gave me an insight to the barriers of access in a commodity-based entertainment model. Using the guidelines set by the agencies, I had to reject talent for the same reasons I was rejected as a child. In addition, I was told never to reveal my disability and my epilepsy by my boss so not to put my work at risk. Although working for talent agencies, I did get to experience acting for Universal Models and Actors, Kids In Media, Universal Studios, Warner Bros., Bonanza Productions Inc., NBC, Atmosphere Casting, MTV, 21st Century Fox, and Coca-Cola. But, I felt that I was covering up my true self while denying others the experience they deserved while working as a talent scout.
I understood that social inequality was prevalent within the entertainment industry. I chose to leave the agencies and find means to give the disabled a voice that helps them surpass the gatekeepers in the arts that would not otherwise consider their artistic potential. I believed it was extremely unfair and unjust for artists, especially that of the disabled, to be only considered if they fit into the scope or paid their way in. In 2008 I founded LVnTheLife and began my quest in reaching my goal.
Through my ability in software analytics, I saw the potential of online engagement through MySpace and YouTube and went to Austin Community College to gain more knowledge in media and brand development. Simultaneously, I worked for ACC as a social media marketer in academic coaching gaining more experience. Throughout my college years, I formulated a way to bring exposure to the disabled I had been eagerly searching for. In 2017, I began an Instagram page for LVnTheLife and within two years had single-handedly gained 113k followers and am known as an Instagram Influencer of Austin. Today, I also hold a TikTok page of 24k followers for LVnTheLife. LVnTheLife became a Public Benefits Corporation in 2019.
Trying to find means to give exposure for underrepresented and disabled Artists of Texas, I came up with LView, a bi-weekly Instagram IGTV interview show. LView Season 1 began in the summer of 2019 with the help of independent filmmaker Lena Konetchy and together, we have interviewed 39 Texas Artists from all backgrounds in disciplines ranging from actors, musicians, dancers, stage designers, visual artists, magicians, filmmakers, puppeteers, chefs, comedians, writers, and musical theatre producers. Each artist has gained a chance to get exposure while sharing their stories and aspirations through the show. Currently, the show is on hold due to personal family time. However, I continue working on the TikTok page!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I believed I was limited when I was a child due to my disability. But overtime, I decided to go beyond the barriers I had created around myself since people around me didn’t believe I could accomplish certain things. I was underestimated. I chose to take a risk when I moved to Las Vegas. This risk opened doors in allowing me to see that there are many opportunities for those who are disabled and can be just as successful as those who are not.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Be patient. Everything has its own time as we are all trying to learn and grow within ourselves, to better know ourselves, and what we can contribute to this world.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I was always believing that everything in time would always either improve or better itself. However, as I have aged I have realized this is not exactly the case because actions will determine the outcome. You cannot just have faith but also have the determination to take the steps to make things better in your life. This I believe to be true today.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
Tabasco. I am obsessed. I even reference myself to the boyfriend in the movie “Selena”, just imagine instead of Cholula, it’s Tabasco. I have to have it everywhere I go. If Walmart was burning down I would grab the last bit of Tabasco on the shelf.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lvnthelife.com
- Instagram: lvnthelife
- Linkedin: lvnthelife
- Youtube: lvnthelife
- Other: TikTok: @lvnthelife
Image Credits
LVnTheLife, PBC
