Influential Woman · Film/Television/Theatre/Radio
Heather Place
Executive Producer/Managing Partner/Head of Casting, Four Leaf Features, LLC
Southport, NC 28461
Her Story
About Heather
I started acting in Children's Theatre in Michigan at the age of nine years old, then moved to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, where I grew-up doing Theatre at the Hilton Head Playhouse. I attended the University of Georgia as a declared Drama major and appeared in 3 episodes of a 20th Century Fox television show that was shot on location on campus there. This led to more acting work in Television and Film. While at UGA, I also volunteered at the WUOG radio station and began doing Radio and Voiceovers. I moved to Atlanta after college, got an agent and have worked as an actor professionally ever since. I'm a member of SAG-AFTRA and a literacy advocate through SAG's BookPALS program (Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools).
I recently moved to Southport, North Carolina. I'm enjoying living along the Carolina coast again after many years away. I've been married to Frank Izurieta for 37 years and have a beautiful daughter, Aubrey, who lives in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What do you attribute your success to?
Perseverance and tenacity. I don't give up easily! There is a lot of rejection in my industry, but it's important to keep going and keep shining my light in whatever way I can. I believe that what is meant for me will find me. If I don't book a role, it wasn't mine. There will be a better one that I'm ideally suited for in my future. I try to trust the unfolding.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning! No matter what facet of this industry you want to get into, get training. There is always a class or workshop you can take, there is always a way to get on a set as a Background performer or a Production Assistant. Learn by watching other people, by collaborating and connecting. Any creative endeavor is a journey. It's a marathon, not a sprint. Keep working any way you can, keep training and keep learning...
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't ever limit yourself. There are jobs in this industry that have typically been held by men, but if you're interested in being a director, a cinematographer, a producer or any other job title, go for it! I've had the privilege of working with women who are directors, producers, Directors of Photography, screenwriters, production designers, even grips and gaffers. If you are the only woman in the room or on a crew, then you can give something that none of the men in the room or on the set can. You can give a woman's perspective.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There are always challenges with regard to rejection in our industry. Now with the presence of Artificial Intelligence, we also have to compete with computer generated performers who aren't even human! My labor union, SAG-AFTRA, is making strides to try to protect it's members in the arenas of film, television, voiceovers and radio. It's imperative that our likenesses and our voices aren't pirated without our knowlege and used to create A. I.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Family is really important. Make time for family gatherings, trips and quality time with loved ones. This can be a very demanding career and the hours can be crazy! After a 12 hour day on the set, it's important to be able to center yourself. Spend time with people who understand the demands of this industry. Reach for joy and balance in any way you can. It's easy to get depleted, so tend to your own vibration and make sure your gas tank is full. You aren't good to anyone else if you are running on empty...
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