DMF Episode 280 — The Righteous Gemstones’ Kerstin Schulze (Complete Interview): "From Berlin to Hollywood: Kerstin Schulze on Resilience, Creativity, and Stealing Scenes on Screen"

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I have the pleasure of speaking with Kerstin Schulze, an incredibly talented actor, producer, filmmaker, model, and mother. Kerstin shares her inspiring journey from Berlin, Germany, to the bright lights of Hollywood. She opens up about her early life, her passion for athletics, and how it served as an escape from a challenging home life.Kerstin always knew she wanted to be in front of the camera, and despite her mother's insistence on pursuing a 'real' degree, she followed her dreams. From winning a silver medal at the Junior Olympics to making a name for herself in the film industry, Kerstin's story is one of resilience and determination.Most recently, Kerstin has gained attention for her captivating role as Sola in The Righteous Gemstones. The character is a bold, mysterious, and physically imposing presence—one that perfectly complements Kerstin’s background in athletics and deep emotional range. Playing Sola has allowed her to embody both strength and subtlety, showcasing her talent in a series known for its outrageous comedy and dramatic undertones.She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with her acting career and how she stays in shape while managing a busy lifestyle—something that proved essential for bringing Sola to life. Kerstin also shares her insights on the importance of setting goals, staying focused, and the power of positive thinking.If you're looking for motivation to pursue your dreams, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration. Don’t forget to check out her website for fitness programs designed for busy lifestyles. Join us as we dive into Kerstin’s incredible journey—on and off screen—and learn how you can transform your life too!00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction00:00:27 - Early Life and Education00:00:50 - Acting and Business Career00:01:04 - Athletic Career and Achievements00:02:13 - Influence and Inspiration00:02:58 - Challenges and Persistence00:03:49 - Business Education and Career00:04:14 - Entry into Bodybuilding00:05:42 - Fitness Competitions and Magazine Features00:08:33 - Balancing Fitness and Acting00:09:41 - Fitness Lifestyle and Programs00:11:17 - Acting Skills and Techniques00:12:04 - Approach to Auditions00:15:42 - Audition Experiences and Overcoming Nerves00:18:12 - Creating Unique Characters00:20:26 - Dealing with Rejection and Persistence00:21:21 - Character Development: Hightower00:25:35 - War Manga Audition and Character Research00:27:10 - Learning Lines and Acting Process00:50:07 - Importance of Routine and Planning00:51:00 - Positive Mindset and Energy00:52:34 - Use of AI and Fear of Replacement00:54:29 - Writing and Producing 'Wine Night'00:58:10 - Directing Experience and Learning from Production01:00:24 - Understanding the Editing Process and Its Impact01:01:25 - Learning from Being on Set01:03:29 - Interest in Directing and Creating Own Work01:05:08 - Importance of Vision Boards and Aspiration to Work with Will Ferrell01:06:50 - Admiration for Will Ferrell and Acting with Idols01:07:44 - Vision Board and Manifestation Practices01:09:41 - Living in the Present and Trusting the Process01:10:18 - Understanding Scripts and Living the Role01:12:02 - Daily Routines and Self-care01:16:29 - Meditation Practices and Benefits01:18:37 - Physical Fitness and Fasting01:22:09 - Current Reading and Learning Preferences01:23:15 - Recommended Acting Books and Influences01:25:12 - Learning to Direct and Write01:26:25 - Current Interests and Learning Preferences01:28:28 - Current TV and Movie Preferences01:32:14 - Discussion on the Movie 'The Substance'01:37:05 - Fitness and Lifestyle ProgramFor more insights into her work and programs, you can visit her website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠partyanddiet.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or follow her on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@partyanddiet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.