What does success really mean - especially in the arts, in Hollywood, and in life? In this conversation, Ulka shares her journey from a stable IT career in Montreal to pursuing her passion for the arts in LA. We highlight how aging in Hollywood brings both challenges and hard-earned wisdom, and why embracing your current chapter - whether single, partnered, thriving, or uncertain - is essential to living well. Ulka discusses redefining success in the arts, especially when life doesn’t follow the traditional timeline, and encourages listeners to take risks and follow their curiosity. We look at the benefits of late career transitions, challenging the idea that it’s ever “too late” to pivot or start something new, and underline how growth happens when we stay curious and honest with ourselves. Through honest reflection on creativity, aging, singledom, rejection, and personal growth, this conversation reframes what it means to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. By questioning traditional prescriptions for happiness, we open space for more authentic ways of living and creating. If you’re seeking clarity, inspiration, and permission to define success for yourself, this episode is for you.

Takeaways

Making a big life change can start with a quiet decision.

Success in the arts is not solely defined by monetary gain.

Rejection is often not personal; it's about fit.

Aging in Hollywood can be challenging, but wisdom grows with age.

Living authentically means embracing your current situation, whether single or partnered.

Curiosity can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.

It's important to redefine what success means to you personally.

Taking risks is essential for personal fulfillment and growth.

Your past experiences can inform and enhance your current pursuits.

Focus on the process rather than the outcome to find fulfillment.

Sound bites

"No knowledge is wasted."

"What am I aging into?"

“Action begets action.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah

00:33 Ulka Mohanty: A Modern-Day Renaissance Woman

01:33 The Journey to LA: A Leap of Faith

08:37 Redefining Success in the Arts

14:32 Navigating Rejection and Building Resilience

20:42 Benefits of Late Career Transitions

27:45 Challenging Traditional Prescriptions

30:16 Cultural Pressures to Be in Partnership

33:49 Navigating the Question of Singledom

37:10 Aging in Hollywood: Shifting Perspectives

42:07 Embracing Curiosity, Risk, and Action in Your Life

47:52 Where to Find Ulka

49:46 Outtakes

50:55 Subscribe

Keywords

creativity, success, rejection, aging, single life, risk-taking, personal growth, artistic journey, resilience, personal fulfillment

Website: www.ulkamohanty.com

Instagram: @UlkaM