Interview with Actress, Filmmaker and Entrepreneur Rachele Brooke Smith

Check out our interview with Hollywood actress, film producer, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and motivational speaker, Rachele Brooke Smith.

After playing the lead role in the sequel to the film that changed her life as a little girl (Center Stage) and doing what everyone said was impossible, Rachele is on a mission to empower others to disrupt doubt and become the hero of their own story.

Since her breakout lead role in Center Stage: Turn It Up, she has appeared in countless films and TV shows, including “Bring It On,” “Nice Guys,” “Burlesque,” “Iron Man 2,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “Two and A Half Men,” “Atomic Shark,” “Scream Queens,” “Class Act,” Lifetime’s “Psycho Stripper” and “My Sister’s Deadly Secret,” “Be The Light,” a new comedy, “In Other Words,” her lead role opposite Danny Trejo in “The Last Exorcist,” and others. Melanie, her starring character, is in “Alien Country,” a cheerful new action adventure picture. She is filming her new superhero action picture, “The Legend of the White Dragon,” as rebel leader “Iris Maine” with Jason David Frank, Jason Faunt, King Bach, David Ramsy, Michael Madsen, and others.

Rachele and her partner, Emilio Palafox, co-founded Relationship Renegades Media and co-host one of the greatest new relationship radio shows. They teach people how to “find themselves and their dream partner” and work together to create a healthy relationship culture.

Follow Rachele @rbrookesmith

Hi Rachele, we did an interview a few years ago, but I bet you have new updates to share! Tell us what’s new.

Yes, so many things! I think since our last interview, I met the love of my life, got married, put everything in storage and lived as digital nomads for 2 1/2 years. We’ve probably lived in hundreds of Airbnbs all over the world at this point. 🙂 Also done several new films and TV shows both as an actress and a producer, as well as founded our company together, Relationship Renegades.

Can you tell us about your journey into acting? Which role do you feel was a turning point in your career, and why?

I grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, and was a very competitive (and pretty stressed out) gymnast before getting into entertainment, but it was never the actual gymnastics that was my true love. I really just loved the performing aspect of it all. After breaking my hand during one of the best competitions of my life (and having to have surgery on it), I began to realize how truly unhappy I was, and even though it was ridiculously hard and seemed almost impossible at the time to quit, I eventually did find the strength to do so (I don’t think I will ever forget how sad and lost I was back then). Around that same time, I went with my family to see the movie Center Stage by Nicholas Hytner.

This particular film was so powerful for me; I had crazy goosebumps and chills, and it was so filled with inspiration that I literally couldn’t move. Even after everyone else had left the theater, I was still sitting there with an overwhelming feeling of joy, passion, a little bit of fear, and lots of excitement. I just knew in that very powerful moment that I would never forget this experience. I knew right then and there that I wanted to be just like that girl that I watched light up that screen and who inspired me so much. I went from feeling so sad, so lost, and so alone to feeling more alive and full of joy and wonderment than ever before. I wanted to do everything I could and work harder than I ever had before to be able to move and change people the way that film had changed me. I wanted to act, dance, and perform more than anything, and I wanted to do it for the rest of my life. After that moment, there really was no looking back; I just knew that performing and storytelling were what I was born to do.

I barely slept all through high school because I was to busy dancing and acting all the time. Then the plan was to go to my dream college that had one of the best performing arts programs, then go to LA to follow my dream of being a lead actress. Fun fact: that plan failed big time and I didn’t get into my dream college (even though I had a 3.9 GPA, was captain of the dance line, led our school’s non-profit activities, and was in student government all 4 years). After a few weeks of complete devastation, confusion, and not knowing what to do next (I was all set up to go to ASU, but something inside me felt awful about making that move), I saw an opportunity to audition for a super intense performing arts scholarship program in LA. long story short, I last minute flew to LA with my mom, auditioned, got in (yay!!!!), and had 2 weeks to move and get all set up in this new crazy big city I knew pretty much no one and very little about (I mean other than what I saw in movies) During this very intense year-long program (which was one of the hardest but best things I have ever done), I couldn’t audition for anything or have an agent.

As soon as I finished the program, I got signed to a dance agency and tried to get in with an acting agency but got turned down and was very discouraged. A couple weeks later, I saw a sign on the wall for auditions for the lead girl in Center Stage: Turn It Up (the sequel to the very film that changed me as a little girl). My initial reaction was that there was no way this could have been happening. It seemed so surreal, almost not even possible. I will never forget the moment, sitting at home in my room after justifying all the reasons not to go, when I had this overwhelming feeling that I had to go. It was so powerful that it honestly felt like it pushed me out the door and to the audition. I had that feeling through the next month or so, and what seemed like a rollercoaster ride of emotions was my childhood dream being so close but yet so far away. I ended up having to go six different times for that role, then finally got the call that I booked. After what felt like forever, I got a call from one of the agents that turned me down, saying that Sony Pictures wanted to book me to play Kate Parker in Center Stage Turn It Up and that I would be leaving to film in Vancouver in a couple days (haahhhhhh… hahhhh . haaahhh.. Ya, that was me screaming in my car. (Probably not very safe for me to be driving right then.) It was a literal childhood dream come true. I was about to play the lead in the sequel to the movie that changed my life as a little girl. I was going to get to be “that girl” that inspired me so much. This crazy, beautiful, overwhelming, and, to me, somewhat miraculous experience is what has shaped my entire brand and company. All I want to do is use this story to inspire others and be “that girl” to move and change anyone’s life as much as I possibly can through the arts, performing, and storytelling.

Here is a video where I talk all about this!

How do you prepare for a new role, especially when it’s significantly different from your own personality or previous characters you’ve portrayed?

Human behavior has fascinated me ever since I was a young child. It’s why I studied psychology and it’s also why I was so passionate about becoming an actress and storyteller, as it is all about the study of human behavior.

That being said, because I have been studying this pretty much my whole life (ever since I was like 14), I have learned a very holistic approach to diving into characters that are very different from me.

I tried to use all of my senses, as well as a lot of music and movement, to help me unlock different aspects and emotions. I also do a lot of free writing as the character and a lot of visualization of what their life and experiences could’ve been like.

I study a lot of other similar types of characters and other films. But I think it’s creating how this character sees the world—what are their core beliefs, values, etc.

What makes them tick? What makes them behave the way they do—or not do certain things that you think they would? When you find those core stories and beliefs, that is the big game changer when creating characters.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the acting industry, and how have you overcome them?

The acting, filmmaking, and entertainment industry is a big industry. I choose courage, even when I feel scared. Especially the courage to be fully authentically me and make really brave choices. Sometimes those brave choices are saying no to opportunities that are not aligned and sometimes those opportunities are saying yes to opportunities that might feel scary, but are aligned.

I think it’s also been learning how to step into my own power and not wait for people to give me opportunities, but to create my own. And to cultivate really supportive friendships in the entertainment industry that are like-minded, and all want to build, and create projects together that help make this world a better place.

Is there a particular moment or experience during your acting career that you cherish the most or that has had a significant impact on you?

I think my Center Stage story and getting to play the lead role in the sequel to the film that changed my life will always be one of the most special moments.

But I also got to work with some of my childhood heroes, like Christopher Lloyd, in the movie I did called Cold Moon. I will always cherish those moments and memories, especially the one when we finished filming and he picked me up, swung me around, and told me how much he loved working with me and how much he believed in me. Then I started bawling and crying tears of joy. Those kinds of moments make me feel so special and surreal, sometimes making me believe that they actually happened. But they did, and I am forever grateful.

Also, getting to be a part of another kind of childhood dream come true… I obsessed over Power Rangers as a kid, and so my new film, which’s a new superhero movie I have coming out, where I play the main female superhero role, my characters name is “IRIS,” and the film is called “Legend of the White Dragon,” is about getting to work with a childhood hero, Jason David Frank. Especially as he became a very dear friend, and is no longer with us. I will always cherish the time we get to spend together.

Who are your role models or sources of inspiration within the acting world, and how have they influenced your career choices and acting style?

Gosh, I could name so many here, but I think for me personally, really strong and courageous women like Sandra Bullock, Reese Witherspoon, Meryl Streep, Jennifer Lawrence, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston, Gal Gadot, Oprah, Rachel McAdams, Margot Robbie, Emma Stone, and Brie Larson are some at the top of my list.

All of these women didn’t just wait for opportunities. They created it, and they did it with such courage, grace, humor, and wisdom. I definitely aspire to be like that.

Looking forward, what kind of roles or projects are you most interested in pursuing? Are there any specific directors, actors, or genres you’re eager to work with or explore?

I love being a part of films and playing characters that in some way help people’s lives, make them happier and healthier and make this world a better place.

And I love doing that in action adventure films that showcase the heroes journey, and help people be the hero of their own life.

As well as comedy, I think laughter is an incredible medicine, and our world needs more joy.

And I would love, love, love to work with any of the actresses or actors that I listed above or below 🙂

Any great stories or characters where I also get to dance, sing, fight or challenge myself with things I love but don’t get to do a lot like playing guitar, archery, rock climbing or tactical training. I also love that too 🙂

Now tell us about your project, Relationship Renegades. What is this is about and where can people learn more about it?

My husband and I created relationship renegades to help co-create a world where healthy relationships are the new norm

Especially being in the entertainment industry, and realizing that most media is focused on unhealthy, toxic relationships, we wanted to help change that.

And create a platform that highlights, celebrates, and showcases all the “Relationship Renegades” aka relationship role models, out there—how they’re doing it and that it is possible.

The best place to learn more about. It is on our Instagram @Relationship.Renegades

Think of it as a proactive, playful approach to creating healthy, thriving relationships.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

Being on set with people that I love, telling stories that I love and really believe in and feeling fully expressed.

And or on stage, speaking to thousands of people, empowering them, and helping them believe in themselves and their dreams again.

And especially any of the videos or letters that I get from fans, telling me how much a character that I played, a movie that I did, or a speech that I gave really helped them and how their lives are better because of it.

What book should every entrepreneur read?

Gosh, I could list so many!

But some of my absolute tops that have helped me so much are:

• Big Magic
• The surrender experiment
• The Artist Way
• The alchemist
• Money mindset
• Happy money
• Start with why
• Smartcuts
• Drive

What advice would you give to your younger self and why?

• Your future is going to blow you away!
• Relax!!! And enjoy the ride more.
• Your whole life will go by in the blink of an eye.
• You spent most of your younger life wishing you were older, and now that you’re older, you wish you were younger again!! ENJOY TIME MORE!!!
• You’re stress is literally killing you.
• Enjoyment is the fountain of youth.
• Every day, in whatever way, you can find ways to enjoy the process.
• Prioritize Play.
• Prioritize your friendships, family, & healthy relationships.
• Be very careful who you surround yourself with. Make it a priority to create an amazing team of people around you. When everything feels like it’s crashing down on you, having inspiring people who you know love you unconditionally and have your back no matter what, is the best gift you could ask for. If you don’t feel constantly supported & encouraged by your friends & the people in your life, let go of love & find people who do.
• All the things that you think are some of the worst things that ever happened to you will end up being the best things that ever happened to you, and they will end up turning out in a way that is bigger and better than you could’ve ever imagined.
• Tomorrow is not promised for yourself or your loved ones; do your very best to be present for your and their lives before it’s no longer here.

How would your best friend describe you?

Well, I actually asked my best friends and this is what they said:

• Excited about life
• A feeler of all feelings
• The most supportive and authentic cheerleader for everyone
• A joyous adventurer
• A ‘YES’ sayer
• A connector
• Generous
• Genuine, brave, and unafraid to dream big
• Positive
• Inspiring
• Lover
• Inclusive
• Caring
• Passionate
• Strong
• Child-like wonder
• a lover of nature
• And someone who needs to be in motion 99 percent of the time ????????
• And someone you can always count on .. ???? you follow through with your word!

It’s hard to explain. Sometimes you meet someone and you just know they are a good person, there is a spark, a recognition, or a familiarity about them. Rachele is that. She leads with her heart and creates a special feeling of joy and acceptance when you are with her. She is the type of best friend every woman deserves; she is so supportive and encouraging. There is no jealousy; she just brings this “I support you, I love you, I am cheering you on, and there is no one else like you on earth” kind of energy.

If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?

Dang that’s a rough one. Here are a couple titles that come to mind:.

1. The Creative Life Experiment
2. Never grow up, it’s underrated
3. Play is your superpower
4. She needed a hero, so that’s who she became.

What’s next for Rachele Brooke Smith in 2024?

I have 2 new films coming out this year and another one coming out in 2025.

One of those films is a new superhero movie called “Legend of the White Dragon,” where I play the main female superhero character in it, named “Iris,” alongside so many incredible legends in the industry. I’m so excited for the world to experience this new universe we created.

Another one of those films is called “Alien Country,” and I both play one of the leads in this film as well as helped produce it. It is set to be released this fall. I am incredibly proud of this film, the team behind it and what we were able to do with what we had. I can’t wait for the world to see it as well as to meet my character, Melanie.

The other film I have coming out in 2025 is a new animated movie that I play one of the main roles in and also helped produce. I can’t say too much about this one yet, but it’s another project I’m so honored to be a part of, along with several A-listers and a film that I believe will help so many kids and families navigate challenging situations in a fun and entertaining way.

I’m also set to start a new movie that will be filming in Spain this year. I am both playing one of the main characters and helping produce this film and I’m very excited about it.

I’m also extremely excited about starting a new production company with several of our best friends and extremely talented filmmakers. We’re  all coming together to create several films, shows, and events that are not only super entertaining but also help people’s lives be happier and healthier, make people laugh, cry, and feel joy, and help make this world a better place.

I am so excited to be doing a lot more speaking engagements and events to help empower as many people as possible worldwide. As well as be a part of a couple really incredible companies that I really believe in that are helping this world be such a better place. One is called “Athena Healthspan” (we are changing the game when it comes to health and longevity worldwide) & “Magic Blocks” (we are helping disrupt the education system and helping parents raise resilient children through entertaining & educational books and stories.)

What is your favorite healthy food?

Spaghetti squash, and really good salmon and avocado.

And your favorite cheat food?

Dark chocolate and nut butters.

Super cheat food: Pazookies

How would you explain your fashion style?

Anything that lights me up, or makes me feel confident, comfortable, and or free 🙂

What is your own definition of happiness?

• That happiness is not a destination.
• It is the way.
• It is the ability to have deep appreciation for even the simplest things in life, so that no matter what happens, you are able to find things that bring you into a state of awe, wonderment, and joy.

If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?

Gosh, so many! Sandra Bullock (she’s been one of my all-time heroes for a very long time), Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Reese Witherspoon, Gal Gadot, Oprah.

If I could go back in time, I would love to meet Mary Magdalene, and ask her what it was really like for her.

What would be your dream holiday, and who would you go with?

I’ve never been to Bali, Australia, or New Zealand, and would love to go with all of my close friends and family.

Best advice ever given?

Only take advice from the people who have created the reality for themselves that you want to create for yourself.

Do you support any charities?

• NAOMI Mental Health
• Dress for success
• Charity Water
• Mercy for animals
• Promise 2 Live

Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?

Consistently making movies that I love, with people that I love, telling stories and playing characters that I love, that make millions of dollars, help thousands of people’s dreams come true, help people’s lives be happier and healthier, and help make this world a better place.

What is your favorite song to belt out in the car or for karaoke?

• Roar- Katy Perry
• “I wanna dance with somebody” – Whitney Huston
• “Bigger Than”
• “Thank you”

What do you think of social media?

Social media has been a major help in being able to create a name and brand for myself. However, it’s a love-hate relationship. I did make a shirt at one point that said “life before likes” for a reason. I think as a tool, it can be super helpful to use social media to educate, empower, connect, and inspire, however, it is incredibly important to make sure you create healthy social media habits and make sure that you are implementing things like “social media” fasts every once in a while (and/or in the mornings and nights) to make sure that your REAL LIFE is always coming before your online life.

Where we can follow you?

All over social media.

Subscribe at www.rachelebsmith.com

Instagram / TikTok / YouTube / Facebook / LinkedIn

Book: Big Magic, Untethered Soul , The artist way

Quote: “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste it, to experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

“Stuff your eyes with wonder,’ he said, ‘live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.” – Ray Bradbury

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion” – Paul Coelho

“The effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is.” – Jim Carrey

Movie: I love movies sooo much, so many to name but a couple of my tops are Center Stage (the one that changed my life forever), This is 40, Blindside, Interstellar, Wonder Woman, LA LA Land, Couples Retreat, Dodgeball, Barbie, Oppenheimer, liar, liar, eat pray, and love

TV Series: Friends, Ted Lasso, Modern Family (I love comedy), & Lessons in Chemistry

Favorite Food: Don’t have a favorite; there are too many to choose from, but i’m a pretty big health nut so I love making healthy versions of my favorite foods as a kid, like healthy waffles and or healthy chocolate mousses or brownies (that are gluten-free and super low in sugar content)

Travel Destination: My husband and I were digital nomads for 2 1/2 years and traveled and worked around the world, so again, there are too many favorite places to name, but one place that always has my heart is all over Greece, Spain, Italy, and Hawaii. Places I’m still dying to go check out are Bali, Australia, and New Zealand.