In a captivating conversation on the Navigating Hollywood podcast, I welcome actress Edwina Findley, who currently stars in Netflix’s murder mystery series “The Residence.” The discussion delves deep into the intersection of faith, purpose, and creative pursuits.

Findley, whose impressive career spans from HBO’s “The Wire” to her Independent Spirit Award-nominated performance in “Free Indeed,” shares the fascinating journey of maintaining her integrity while navigating Hollywood’s demanding landscape. With classical training from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, she brings both technical excellence and spiritual depth to her craft.

What stands out most powerfully in this conversation is Findley’s distinction between personal dreams and what she calls “God dreams.” As she explains, “A God dream extends so far beyond you… it’s large enough to encompass others, to bless others through the fulfillment of it.” This perspective challenges the self-centered nature that entertainment careers can sometimes foster. While personal dreams avoid suffering and discomfort, Findley argues that God dreams often include valleys alongside mountaintops.

My interview reveals fascinating moments where Findley’s faith and career intersected in seemingly divine ways. She recounts how strangers would tell her specific career milestones that later manifested exactly as foretold—including working with Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey, and standing on the same spot at the Chinese Theatre where she had received those words years earlier.

Early in her career, Findley faced significant obstacles related to both faith and identity. She shares how agents told her “Hollywood is for beautiful people” and that she’d “never make it,” while others pressured her to compromise her values. These challenges forced her to rely on prayer and divine guidance to navigate an industry that often pushes artists to compromise for advancement.

Perhaps most insightful is Findley’s approach to maintaining spiritual health while working in entertainment. She emphasizes the danger of idolizing the industry, acknowledging its fickleness and the identity crisis that can result from tying self-worth to career success. Instead, she focuses on serving others, building spiritual community, and continually asking whether new opportunities are self-generated or divinely appointed.

Findley’s debut book, “The World is Waiting for You,” expands on these themes, calling readers to discover their unique purpose. Academy Award-winner Viola Davis attests to Findley’s transformative impact, writing that “Once she comes into your life, it alters.” This podcast offers listeners a chance to experience that transformative perspective firsthand.

Findley’s journey provides both inspiration and practical wisdom. Her story reminds us that true fulfillment comes not from relentless self-promotion but from surrender to a purpose greater than ourselves—one that benefits others while honoring our deepest values. Listen wherever you enjoy podcasts such as Apple or Spotify.