Luc Berthelette
Learn • Get Inspired • Grow
Christopher Rivas
Actor in Call Me Kat, Chicago P.D, Chimera
Author of "Brown Enough"
What did you want to become when you were a child?
I didn’t really love myself as a child, I was a scared and unhappy child… I think what I wanted to become most was someone who was proud of themself. I can say I have become that. Secondly, was an actor and an artist (after seeing Medea on Broadway at 12 years old) which is also what I did. Finally, an explorer and storyteller—someone who could uncover life’s mysteries and share them with the world.
What aspects of your career do you like best/least?
I thrive on the collaboration and meeting of new people and new stories. As an artist we need others, as a reader, I need the reader, as a performer I need the audience, as a maker, I need my collaborators. The downside? When bureaucracy gets in the way of innovation.
If you could send a note to your 15 year-old self, what would it say?
Hey 15-year-old me—trust your instincts, take risks, and remember: you are enough just as you are.
If you could send a note to your 75 year-old self, what would it say?
Keep laughing, keep learning, and never lose that spark of wonder. Cherish every moment, no matter how small.
Happiness is...
Less is more. And having the courage to remeet and enter the moment a new, over and over.
What/who inspires you?
I’m inspired by my ancestors, those I know, and those I don’t. The many resilient souls who have allowed all this to happen.
Also, raw moments in nature, and the boundless potential of human creativity.
Whom do you most admire in life? What specific characteristics of this person do you want to emulate?
I admire those who are unapologetically authentic and curious. I strive to mirror their integrity, passion, and kindness.
What five books would you insist everyone read?
So many more than 5!
“The 40 Rules of Love”
“The Fire Next Time”
“The Alchemist”
“Siddhartha”
“Soul on Ice”
“Drown”
“The World and Other Places”
and of course “Brown Enough” & “You’re a Good Swimmer” ;)
What three albums would you insist everyone have in the collection?
The Roots, “Things Fall Apart”
Miles Davis, “Blue in Green”
Lauryn Hill, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”
If in a bad (sad, sour, or angry) mood, I pop this movie (or TV show) in and know I will feel (even slightly) better once the film wraps up:
‘Parks and Recreation’—its quirky optimism never fails to bring a smile.
A meal that I serve that I know will be a crowd-pleaser is:
A make a savory oatmeal that will nourish in the deepest of ways.
What do you consider to be the best mistake you have ever made?
No mistakes, I believe this…. I believe in walking into the unknown regardless of outcome. It taught me more than any safe decision ever could.
The key to my personal well-being is:
Meditation. Prayer. I am not what I do or make. Staying true to myself and never losing my sense of curiosity.
What do you believe to be the greatest gift to offer someone else?
Genuine kindness paired with the willingness to listen deeply with loving attention.
What do you consider to be the greatest gift you can give to yourself?
Investing in self-love and present moment awareness.
What one thing do you hope people take away from reading "Brown Enough"?
That you are enough - just as you are.
Embracing your unique story is the ultimate act of liberation.
Finally, diversity is our greatest strength.
Any advice for those wanting to work in your industry &/or live their best lives?
Stay curious and be fearless in your pursuit of what spirit has called you too.
And you are not your bio- you are so much more than any bio, like, or follow.
Any last words?
What are we here for if not to enjoy life eternal, solve what problems we can, give light, peace and joy to our fellow-man, and leave this planet a little healthier than when we were born.
Follow Christopher on: