Interview with Bree Tomasel

What’s the most surprising thing you've discovered in your work, something teens might not expect?
Over the years I think I've discovered that your biggest asset is being you. Authenticity and genuineness are you biggest weapon when it comes to connecting to your audience.

What skills (inside or outside academics) do you believe helped you most, and what skills should teens be working on now?
I think the biggest skills that have helped me most are actually have a vast array of skills. I know that doesn't really make sense, but over the years if there was something I didn't know how to do I would learn it. For example - editing video, I have taught myself (using YouTube) how to edit video and that is a skill I've added to my set, which has definitely come in handy over the years.

Was there a time when someone doubted you or your ideas—how did you respond or keep going?
Of course there has been! Someone not understanding your ideas or vision is pretty normal. You have to be ready to back yourself and fight for the ideas that you know will work and learn to let go of others - pick and choose your battles.

What advice would you give teens who are interested in a career in research or becoming public figures themselves?
Being in the public eye comes with its challenges, having a great support network around you is super important. 

How do you balance staying grounded / caring for yourself while also having big goals or being in the public eye?
It's not easy and it's a constant work in progress for me. But like I said, having a great support network around is key, people you trust, who know and love you for you. But also making sure your life is balanced and that your goals are super clear, having those as a touch point to go back to is always helpful.

What’s one book / resource / idea that has influenced you deeply and that you would recommend to young people?
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - I couldn't recommend this book enough!