Zoe Naylor not only knows how to act she is also a journalist, presenter, voice artist, MC and producer. Did I mention model as well? Yes, as you can tell by Zoe's pictures, she is a beauty as well.
This exceptionally talented Aussie girl gives us some professional tips, some words of wisdom and a look into her life.
Gabrielle Reilly: I watched your showreel collection and it look likes you just love what you do. You're obviously very good at it (and naturally funny). Do you ever get nervous or tongue-tied and, if you do, how do you get around those emotions to do what needs to be done?
Zoe Naylor: Sure I get nervous.I think that's a natural emotion to feel when you care about what you do. Preparation is very important to me. That means to research and know the subject I'm talking about, know about the person I'm interviewing or as an actor knowing my lines back to front, making sure I've done any necessary training for the role and that my accent is spot on. Basically making sure I've done everything possible before I walk into any job or onto any set. The more prepared I feel, the more I trust I will recover in an awkward moment.
Gabrielle Reilly: What has been your favorite career highlights?
Zoe Naylor: There have been so many.it's so hard to pick. As an actor, Mcleods was a very special job for me because I loved the people I was working with and the location we filmed in. Orange Roughies in NZ was wonderful because not only was it a challenging role, but I was able to travel and see so much of that inspiring country. As an MC I've worked with some fabulous clients, met some amazing people and hosted some wonderful events.as a model I've seen parts of the world I never thought I'd get to.as a reporter/presenter I've interviewed some really interesting people and covered a vast range of subjects and experiences.(see full bio below for details)
Gabrielle Reilly: What is your favorite acting tip?
Zoe Naylor: Acting is reacting. Listen!
Gabrielle Reilly: What are you currently working on?
Zoe Naylor: I'm currently developing my own programs, which I'm finding both challenging, stimulating and rewarding. I've also optioned the rights to produce a feature film based on the life of prolific Australian artist, Greg Wilson. I'll probably head to the States at the end of the year and I'm continuing to work in all the other areas too (mc, voice-overs etc.)
Gabrielle Reilly: What advice would you give teenagers who want to follow a similar career path as you?
Zoe Naylor: I'm currently developing my own programs, which I'm finding both challenging, stimulating and rewarding. I've also optioned the rights to produce a feature film based on the life of prolific Australian artist, Greg Wilson. I'll probably head to the States at the end of the year and I'm continuing to work in all the other areas too (mc, voice-overs etc.)
Gabrielle Reilly: Any plans for making your way to the American movie scene?
Zoe Naylor: Any plans for making your way to the American movie scene?
Yes, I think that's going to be my next goal. My sister has just moved to LA with her husband and kids so it seems crazy not to go while I have such a strong support network there. It's funny but I also finally feel ready to tackle the international scene. I've ticked most of the boxes I can as an actor in Australia and NZ - so I guess I have nothing to lose by checking out the rest of the world. In my life if I was able to make just a handful of inspiring and internationally respected movies with wonderful people I'd be happy.
Gabrielle Reilly: Do we have any chance of seeing you on Dancing with the Stars in the future?
Zoe Naylor: I'd love to do that show! I know that might sound corny but they all look like they are just having so much fun and getting fit at the same time!!
Gabrielle Reilly: I know you love food. if Hugh Jackman and his wife were to have lunch at your home what would you cook them?
Zoe Naylor: God - I'd probably order something in because I'd be too busy talking!! No, I'd probably just go the fish markets and get a whole lot of oysters and prawns.make a big salad.grab some fresh bread.throw some snags on the BBQ and open a bottle of wine.perhaps make a chocolate cake or pavlova for desert. Yumm!
Gabrielle Reilly: What has been your favorite travel experience?
Zoe Naylor: I've been so blessed to have had a lot of great travel experiences both through work and holidays. I really enjoyed Sri Lanka, I love skiing in the States, and NZ is like my second home.but most recently I travelled to Voyages 131 Longtitude in Uluru to shoot for Australian Traveller Magazine. It was the most incredible place - the Ayers Rock and the Olgas are mind blowing, the resort was unbelievable and star gazing out of this world.I can't recommend this long weekend escape highly enough to all Australians!
Gabrielle Reilly: What words of motivation or wisdom can you offer our readers?
Zoe Naylor: Here are some of the mottos I live by:
Life is like a fun park and we work to buy tokens to play in it.
Do what you love and love what you do
Luck is when preparation meets opportunity
Life is short - don't settle for 80%
A smile goes a long way and laughter is the best medicine.
Manners cost nothing
If you do a little something everyday towards achieving your goals you're already half way there.
