We recently had the chance to connect with Janie Cox and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Janie , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My family. Being together and enjoying the moments with our young girls. Their time in the home is so short. We are being intentional about the small things. Working in the yard, taking daily walks and just enjoying playing games together.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Janie Cox and I am a second generation San Diego native. I am married with 2 girls, a 10 year old and 5 year old. We live in the home by grandfather build and my dad grew up in. I am the artistic director for CYT San Diego (Christian Youth Theater). My parents started the organization back in 1980 so we are in our 45th year of serving the community. CYT is dedicated to developing character and creativity through quality theater arts training that brings families and communities together, while reflecting Jesus. I love training the next generation through the arts to have confidence in life and a love for Jesus. We are moving our operations this year where all our programing will be under one roof. We offer fully stage broadway style musical productions, classes, camps and events. We also rent out costumes, sets, and props for other local theater groups and churches. We believe in the power of storytelling and using musical theater as a strong tool for educating students.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My Parents. At a very young age my parents always modeled no matter what you do, do it to the best of your ability. Do it as if no one is watching but the Lord. I practiced that through my childhood and into my adult years. It is 100% more satisfying to work hard and put in your all no matter what you are doing. If it doing laundry or directing a show with over 100 students put in your very best. Both my mom and dad still to this day model what it is to work and work hard. I am very grateful for the example.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
There is always hope in suffering. There is always an end to suffering. The suffering could always be worst than it actually is.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That fame, money and power make you happy. I believe in the opposite, that all those things make you more empty and unfulfilled.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I literally do tap dance at work! Ha. I believe in the mission so much that I have a level of excitement like a kid going to a birthday party! Every day is different at work and on the surface it seems superficial but ultimately we are doing kingdom work that last for an eternity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cytsandiego.org
- Instagram: @cytsandiego
- Facebook: @christianyouththeatersandiego
Image Credits
CYT sand diego
