We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarahndipity Johnsen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sarahndipity, what makes you happy? Why?
My happiness stems from co-creating with others. When we can collaborate on a common goal, and work together cohesively, it brings about such enormous joy. I find happiness by appreciating nature, animals, friends, my family, and through artistic exploration. Dancing and expressing “the attitude of gratitude” is a sure way to bring about my ecstatic mood. Then, I try to share my smiley face with those I encounter throughout my day. It is amazing how this simple act of kindness can radiate appreciation.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
One thing that I believe sets me apart from many people is my willingness to boldly face my fears and try things that might seem impossible. For example, I had just started producing the television series “Enchanted Planet” during the pandemic, and I felt our viewers would benefit from hearing message of hope from musicians and celebrities. We didn’t even have funding for the project yet, and I set up a meeting with Orly Marley to see if she and Ziggy would like to help. The following week I was speaking with Sara Franti to see if she and Michael wanted to join in and share. Those were bold moves for a new producer/director. Honestly, I never heard back from either group, yet that didn’t stop me from reaching out to others. Musicians Chaz Roi and Chloe Brooke Watkins graciously agreed to help, and our first season is now airing and streaming through PBS.
I had to overcome so many challenges along the way. I truly feel we must be willing to fail to really succeed. The closed doors are often great instigators that illuminate the next steps forward.
My mission is to uplift humanity through education, entertainment, and creative arts. I fulfill my mission by authentically sharing my work and journey with others. I’ve always been a voluptuous woman and many doors have been closed to me based on my curves. One of my passions is dance, and I don’t fit into a typical body-type for professional dancers. Where I once saw my body as a curse, I now see it as one of my main gifts. I’ve been a professional dancer for over a decade, and my love inspires others to shake what their mamas gave them.
That’s how I started down the path of writing children’s books in 2017. I wanted people of all shapes and sizes to know that they can move freely. My first book, “From A-Z: Animals Get Funky!” teaches kids the ABC’s of dance. I published this book with the help of 96 backers on a successful Kickstarter campaign. Asking others for help was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but if I had not bravely asked my community for help that book would have never inspired the “Animals Get Funky” album, “Animals Get Emotional”, and the other 5 books I’ve published since then. Be bold, ask for help, and be willing to fail. One day, you may see your characters come to life through a television show like I did. And who knows, maybe Ziggy or Michael will read this article and jump on board for season two of “Enchanted Planet”. The seeds have been planted, and I know they will sprout at the perfect time.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Colorado is filled with so much beauty, and I love sharing outdoor adventure ideas with others. A delicious week in Colorado could include visits to The Colorado National Monument, one of the many amazing hot springs near Glenwood Springs, a day riding the Alpine coaster at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, a hike to the top of one of our exquisite 14’ers, a rafting trip down the Colorado River, and a concert at Red Rocks. There are so many things to do in Colorado, I continually find new and exciting backroads that lead to majestic wildlife viewings and truly peaceful mountain moments.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Justin, definitely deserves a huge shoutout. His unwavering belief in my dreams allows me fly. Justin’s support, dedication, creativity, and willingness to boldly jump in to whatever wild adventures lay ahead constantly lifts me up and helps me boldly dream BIG! He didn’t know when we first met that he’d be sharing the stage with Beats Antique or starring in a television show, yet he trusts me and jumps in fully when needed. We help each other thrive and share our hearts lovingly with others. I’m a truly blessed and fortunate woman to have this champion as my partner.
Website: https://www.animalsgetfunky.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalsgetfunky/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnimalsGetFunky/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_IrK0PExklVs4ZcwjlINtQ
Other: I’m also the founder and ED of the nonprofit, We Create Heart. https://www.wecreateheart.org
Image Credits
Serendipitous Entertainment