While some people wait for their inspiration, actress Avianna Mynhier creates it. She landed her first gig on the hit series The Walking Dead as Rachel Ward in season 10. Then, more recently, she finished filming, during the middle of the pandemic, the Amazon Prime drama series 'Panic' where she can be seen starring as Abby. But this is far from the only thing she has done during the lockdown. Feeling dishearten by covid she decided to create a place for people to connect, her podcast 'Uprising.' In every episode, she aims to speak with a different kind of inspirational person. She is passionate about women empowerment and frequently participates in conventions including the Women Deliver and Professional Businesswomen of California conventions. We talked to Avianna Mynhier about her career, podcast, and women empowerment. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about her.

Where are you based?
Right in the heart of West Hollywood!

How did you become interested in acting?
Pure instinct. I grew up dancing, then when I got to college I felt drawn to live comedy improv and theater performances. Before I knew it, I had joined the Stanford Improvisers and several theater groups on campus. I loved those experiences. They gave me the courage to attempt on-camera work in LA.

We learned that you were a dancer from the age of two. What made you decide to transfer away from dance to acting?
Quite honestly, the longevity. I knew I wanted to practice art for my whole life, so when I found acting and fell in love with it, it felt like the perfect match. I didn’t have to worry about injury or physical fatigue in the same way.

You landed your first gig on The Walking Dead. Can you recall this role and how the performance went?
Oh yes. My first day was one I’ll never forget. I stepped onto a set of seasoned veterans and knew I’d have to learn quickly. I was infatuated by the other actors and their artistry. I took cues from them and tried to connect with the energy and tone on set. I ended up learning so much and making incredible friends in the cast and crew.

Your character Rachel Ward is an intelligent young woman and an effective group leader. Can you talk about your character ‘Rachel Ward,’ on “The Walking Dead” and what does this character mean to you?
To me, she is so inspiring. She is brave and loyal. She protects her own and, ultimately, as she grows up, she learns to channel her vigor and strength into leadership.

We learned that we will see you in the upcoming Amazon Prime drama series Panic starring ‘Abby.’ Can you talk about the show and your character? How was the filming process?
“Panic” is a drama thriller centered around teenagers in a small town that compete in a dangerous game for a chance to escape their town. My character ‘Abby’ sees firsthand how menacing the game can be. Filming the show took a lot of resilience because we had to finish it smack dab in the middle of the pandemic. I was in awe of everyone’s perseverance!

You host a weekly podcast called Uprising. In every episode, you speak with a different kind of inspirational person. What is the story behind this podcast?
I started the podcast during lockdown. I was saddened by all the fear, division and turbulence in our country so I decided to create a place for people to connect and feel inspired. I brought on Tony winning actors, Michelin Star chefs, Forbes tech entrepreneurs, professional athletes, you name it. It was such a fun way to build community during a time of solitude. It’s available on Apple, Spotify, Google or Stitcher for anyone that wants to check it out!

Do you have any favorite stories you have learned from your podcast?
Every single guest shared an anecdote that moved me. For example, Michelin Star chef Anita Lo saw her restaurant burn to the ground and had to build it back up from scratch and architect Ben Uyeda left a comfortable job to design with a mission toward sustainable, affordable housing. Every guest’s unique perspective keeps the show interesting.

Do you have any dream guests?
You know, I just watched the Academy Award winning documentary, “My Octopus Teacher,” so Craig Foster would be a dream!

Nowadays, many long-running series start to feature strong female protagonists however women in TV are still vastly underrepresented. What do you think about female representation in the industry?
I think that we are moving in the right direction but still have a long way to go. The day that we can all walk onto a set and see a population that is representative of the makeup of our country is the day that I will feel satisfied. I hope it happens in my lifetime.

Women have achieved more than most of the society expected with #MeToo movement. As a female actor, what does this movement mean to you and what did the #MeToo movement accomplished for you?
I appreciate the movement for putting a spotlight on issues that could no longer be tolerated or overlooked. I hope the momentum continues to make strides for women and that we emphasize the long-term effort needed to effect lasting change. The reality is, our whole population benefits when women are safe and thriving.

You have taught English, Social Science and Computers to grades K-12 at the AGN school in Konganapuram, India. Can you tell us a bit about this experience?
Absolutely. Living and working in Konganapuram helped me gain perspective that I hold dear to this day. I learned so much about grit, gratitude and generosity there. I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and made connections with students and teachers that I will value forever.

How are you staying positive during a shelter in place?
I am trying to connect with friends/family every day and get fresh air! Some days still feel tough, but tough days only make us stronger. The good news is, I think we’re on the up and up with this pandemic.

What is your motto in life?
Never let your fear decide your future!

To learn more about Avianna Mynhier, please follow her via the below platforms:
Instagram: @aviannamynhier
Uprising Podcast: Apple and Spotify

Photo Credits: Simply Adri Photography