Mike Ketchel
Artist, Writer, Actor in California
Entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, tech wizards, "doers" and philosophers connected on today's issues and shaping the future, asking "why not?" After all, it is up to all of us, isn't it?
★ Starting out 30 yrs ago as an actor-coach-director, then writer, and talent manager, which took me from Atlanta to Los Angeles. I was fortunate to work with, and for, some of the most talented artists and entrepreneurs in TV & film. 20 yrs followed in event product sales & marketing; creation of Old Texican seasonings; management; and, real estate finance & sales. Being a "flybytheseatofmypants" small scale entrepreneur has been exciting, and sometimes white-knuckle flying. Sometimes you crash; but, you get back up.
My decision to return to writing, and the arts, came in 2010; but, on 11/19/11, I suffered a major stroke. Suddenly, my world changed forever. This former athlete was paralyzed, couldn't walk, write, talk, and thinking was a jumbled mess. Two weeks later, my kidneys failed, requiring dialysis.The docs listed me as dying; but, God had other plans.
I've since climbed mountains, literally and figuratively, resumed acting, had my artwork featured in a magazine, wrote a few published articles, a short story, and finished a novel. Visualizing each small or large victory in advance is critical. You are always more than a survivor, if you choose to be.
My survival and recovery have been miraculous; and, God has been my strength and the source of my faith. (See Phil 4:12-20). Sometimes our trials become our mission, and a blessing given is a blessing to give. There are as many reasons to love, as there are reasons to forgive.
★Thrills: My son being born. The creative process, for me, whether painting, writing, or acting. Seeing Monet and Van Gogh works up close. Hearing Mozart. Skiing. Cycling a lot. Running a little. The sea. Jazz clubs. Rollercoasters. Climbing Mt. Diablo w my son 6 months post stroke, and climbing it 3X more. Finishing a new painting, story, starting a new one, or both. On Reelz, playing the role of a pastor in the true story of "The Exorcist, a warden in Almost Got Away With It, on ID. The Third Man (remake), https://vimeo.com/115326812, and Bitter Dessert, https://vimeo.com/79429151, password: dessert. Adidas, https://vimeo.com/138827772
Living in the SF Bay Area.
Fav quote: "Don't step into the ring thinking you're going to lose." Billy Ketchell, NJ Boxing HOF, my dad.