Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Nicolai.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
For much of my career, I was an elementary school teacher, reading interventionist, and instructional coach. I loved helping children grow, but over time I realized there was another part of me that had been quietly waiting for attention—the creative part.
I’ve always loved storytelling, but like many people, I convinced myself it was something to admire rather than pursue. Eventually, I decided to stop waiting for the “perfect” time and started taking acting classes while still teaching. What began as curiosity quickly became a passion. Acting has challenged me in ways I never expected, not just artistically, but personally. It’s taught me to be more present, less self-critical, and more willing to embrace uncertainty.
Along the way, I also fulfilled another lifelong dream by writing and publishing a children’s book, Cone and Skate, inspired by themes of courage, friendship, and curiosity. Today, I’m represented by an agency in Florida, continue training every week, and audition for film, television, and commercial work while constantly looking for ways to grow as an artist.
More than anything, my journey has been about giving myself permission to begin before I felt ready. Whether I’m acting, writing, or wandering through an art museum with a notebook, I’m continually rediscovering the joy of paying attention, staying curious, and trusting where creativity leads.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s true of most creative journeys. I started acting after already having an established career in education, so I was essentially beginning from scratch in a highly competitive industry. There have been plenty of auditions that didn’t lead anywhere, moments of self-doubt, and the challenge of balancing training, auditions, family life, and the practical realities of making a career change.
One of the biggest lessons has been learning that success isn’t always measured by bookings. Some of my greatest growth has happened in acting class, where I’ve had to confront perfectionism, fear of failure, and the habit of judging myself. That inner work has been just as important as learning the technical craft.
I’ve also learned that resilience is a skill. Every audition is an opportunity to grow, every class is a chance to get a little braver, and every setback has taught me something valuable. Looking back, I’m grateful that the road hasn’t been easy because it’s shaped me into a more grounded artist and a more authentic person.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a Florida-based actor currently building my career in film, television, and commercial acting. I spend a lot of my time training, auditioning, and continually developing my craft because I believe great acting is a lifelong pursuit.
Before becoming an actor, I spent over a decade in education as an elementary school teacher, reading interventionist, and instructional coach. Looking back, I can see how much that experience shaped me as an artist. Teaching taught me to listen deeply, stay curious, and appreciate that every person has a unique story and perspective.
I’m also the author of the children’s book Cone and Skate, which reflects another of my passions: storytelling. Whether I’m acting or writing, I’m interested in creating work that helps people feel seen, laugh, reflect, or connect with one another.
What I’m most proud of isn’t any one role–it’s that I had the courage to completely change careers and pursue something that truly lights me up. Every acting class, audition, and project has stretched me not only as an artist but as a person. I’ve learned that great acting isn’t about pretending; it’s about becoming more present, more truthful, and more open.
If there’s one thing that sets me apart, it’s my genuine curiosity. I love observing people, asking questions, reading, and finding inspiration in everyday life. I believe the more deeply we engage with the world, the richer our work becomes. My goal is to continue growing into an artist who brings empathy, authenticity, and humanity to every character I have the privilege to play.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a curious kid who loved learning, reading, and using my imagination. I was the kind of child who was always trying to understand why people thought and behaved the way they did. Looking back, I think that curiosity has been the common thread throughout my life.
I’ve always been drawn to creativity, although I didn’t always express it through acting. I loved writing, storytelling, and playing dress-up. I was also pretty sensitive and observant, which at times made me an overthinker, but those qualities have become some of my greatest strengths as an artist.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become even more fascinated by what it means to be human. I love visiting museums, reading, spending time in nature, and exploring ideas about psychology, mindfulness, and creativity. I’m happiest when I’m learning something new or seeing the world through a different lens.
In many ways, I don’t think I’ve changed all that much. I’ve simply become more willing to embrace the creative side of myself that was always there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amynicolai.com
- Instagram: @amy_rose_nicolai
- Other: https://a.co/d/0cjLzdmE
