Success made me self-sufficient, but it also took away my anonymity. I'm just this quiet nobody, and all of a sudden people are nervous around me. That was kind of weird.

That industry expects you to prove yourself over and over again. Do I stay doing this, or do I raise my daughter and live surrounded by people who love me? Wasn't even really a choice.

I felt devalued and disrespected. The energy behind it felt disingenuous and motivated by corporate profit.

I was literally the black sheep of the family, and there were definitely moments of discomfort while my grandmother was working through her racism.

I was obsessed with the Olympics. It's so exciting to see that level of excellence and endurance.

What saddens me is the corruption of youth and beauty, and the loss of soul, which is only replaced by money.

A group of us started a community center in Santa Monica. We've tried different programs, and three have worked really well. A poetry group. Once a week we visit Venice High and talk to girls at risk.