• May 29, 2026
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The Price of Success: What It Really Takes to Win – Brandon Thor’s Untold Story

By Kristina Lufian 690

Brandon Thor: Disrupting the Precious Metals Industry & Redefining Success

This is the kind of interview I’ve been working to bring you for a long time. Not just another business success story, but an unfiltered look at what entrepreneurship truly demands—the risks, the sacrifices and the lessons few are willing to share. If you’re searching for insights on Brandon Thor, precious metals investing, or how to succeed in a competitive industry, this is the must-watch episode.

Who is Brandon Thor?

Brandon Thor is the CEO of Thor Metals Group, a leader in the precious metals industry. His journey is one of relentless determination, calculated risks, and industry disruption. From early ventures to leading a major firm, he has battled:

  • Industry resistance and powerful competitors
  • Personal and financial setbacks
  • High-stakes decisions that could make or break everything

Yet, through it all, he forged his own path—and in this interview, he reveals the real price of success.

Instagram: @thorworld

Exclusive Interview: Lessons from Brandon Thor

Despite major technical difficulties, interviewing him in the middle of his move, and even a fire disaster in Los Angeles, I made sure to finish this episode and bring you the most valuable insights from one of the most resilient leaders in precious metals.

💡 What you’ll hear in this interview:
✔️ “You need to be willing to risk it all. Burn the boats. If you have an exit plan, you’ve already failed.”—Why real entrepreneurs go all in.
✔️ “It’s always darkest before dawn.”—The moment he nearly lost everything.
✔️ “I was chasing instant highs, quick rewards—until a near-death experience forced me to rebuild from the ground up.”—His wake-up call that changed everything.
✔️ “The industry fought me. They tried to block me out. I had to build my own path.”—How he disrupted a powerful sector and made enemies along the way.
✔️ “If your work doesn’t make you feel alive, you’re wasting your life.”—What drives him now, beyond financial success.

This conversation is about more than business. It’s about survival, purpose, and the reality behind financial success—and it might change the way you think about ambition.

If you’re serious about business, investing, or making an impact, this is an interview you can’t afford to miss.

✅ Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this with others who need to hear this message!

WATCH NOW
Lifestyle & Success

Breaking Free from Narcissism: The Untold Truths of Survival and Empowerment

By Kristina Lufian 639

Breaking Free from Narcissism: The Untold Truths of Survival and Empowerment

Narcissistic manipulation isn’t just a psychological concept—it’s a reality that can affect every area of your life. From personal relationships to professional environments, narcissists wield a power that’s difficult to escape. But how do you break free when you feel trapped in their web?

In this compelling interview, psychotherapist Maria Shenkman and businesswoman Diana Terletska share their raw, personal experiences of being ensnared by narcissists and their journey to reclaim their lives, their power, and their success. Their stories are not just about survival—they’re about transformation, empowerment, and the steps they took to break free from toxic control.

What You’ll Learn in This Exclusive Interview:

  • The hidden costs of narcissistic relationships that no one talks about.
  • Critical strategies used by Maria and Diana to overcome manipulation and thrive.
  • How to transform pain into power and use it as a catalyst for success.
  • The untold truth about narcissistic tactics and how to protect yourself from them.
  • Insights on how to rebuild after a narcissistic encounter and come out stronger than before.
Lifestyle & Success

Unlocking Genius: Mastering Effective Problem Solving | Interview Episode 🎥

By Kristina Lufian 1368

Ever wondered why some people seem to breeze through challenges while others struggle? In this exclusive interview with renowned psychotherapist Maria Shenkman, we dive deep into the art of problem-solving and uncover powerful techniques to transform your approach to life’s hurdles.

Exclusive Insights:

  • How to manage stress and think clearly under pressure.
  • The role of emotional triggers in your decision-making.
  • Practical exercises to identify and overcome mental blocks.

Key Highlights:

  • Why perspective matters: Learn how your worldview shapes your problem-solving abilities.
  • The power of focus: Discover why what you focus on determines your success.
  • Subconscious drivers: Understand the hidden forces influencing your decisions.
  • Realistic vs. unrealistic thinking: Are your thoughts helping or hindering you?
  • Practical tips: Get actionable advice to change your usual way of finding solutions.

Whether you’re dealing with everyday issues or facing significant life challenges, this interview provides valuable tools and insights to help you navigate and conquer any problem. Empower yourself with the knowledge to not just survive but thrive!

Transform your problem-solving skills and gain control over your life with the wisdom shared by Maria Shenkman.

WATCH NOW

Have you ever found yourself trapped in a loop of decisions that seem to lead nowhere? Are you frustrated by the feeling that you’re unable to find clear solutions to the challenges life throws your way? Meet Navigator, a revolutionary psychological game meticulously crafted by a team of experts in psychology and coaching. For nearly a decade, Navigator has been transforming lives by shedding light on the subconscious processes that drive our choices and behaviors.

Picture this: you’re faced with a dilemma, and despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to break free from the same old patterns. That’s where Navigator comes in. It’s like holding up a mirror to your mind, revealing the intricate web of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that shape your decision-making process. By uncovering these hidden factors, Navigator empowers you to make conscious, informed choices that lead to real, tangible results.

But Navigator is more than just a game—it’s a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you navigate through its immersive experience, you’ll unearth deep-seated emotions and behavioral strategies that lie beneath the surface of your consciousness. You’ll gain invaluable insights into why you do what you do and how you can chart a new course toward fulfillment and success.

Imagine finally understanding the root causes of your decisions and breaking free from the limitations that have held you back. That’s the power of Navigator. And the best part? It’s happening right here in the heart of Chicago. Join us for an unforgettable event where you’ll embark on a transformative journey toward clarity, purpose, and self-realization.

Don’t let indecision and uncertainty dictate your future. Take control of your destiny with Navigator. Your journey to a brighter tomorrow starts here. mindfreeing.com

Tatiana Alekseev with New Image Works for Lufian
Exclusive Issues Lifestyle & Success Lufian Stars Magazine Articles

A Self-Made Entrepreneur’s Journey to the Top 10 in the US | Interview with Tatiana Alexeev

By Kristina Lufian 1045

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANDRII IVANCHENKO

With passion, determination and vision, she built a successful business in a few short years.

Her story will not only inspire you but may even convince some of us that we are dreaming too small or help us realize that our obstacles are often just excuses. If you say these are just loud words, then explain how a single mother was able to establish a fast-growing business without knowing English and how through her exhausting never-ending schedule she remains an upbeat and enthusiastic person. A dreamer? A fighter? Or maybe a miracle-maker?

I couldn’t help but ask myself this question while talking to Tatiana Alexeev, owner of “New Image Works”, one of the country’s top medical spas, who has raised a daughter on her own and achieved impressive business success while doing it. 

She did not become dejected as a result of the unfair world, despite challenging circumstances as an immigrant and years of hardship. Quite the contrary, she became one of the most successful individuals in Chicago. She has led an extraordinary life.

I had the opportunity to meet her and ask the question we all want to know, “How did you achieve all of that?”. In this exclusive interview with Tatiana Alekseev, you’ll discover what helped her persevere and what catapulted her success as a businesswoman and hopefully help you understand what a dream big attitude can do for you.

“This business introduced me to wonderful, fascinating people which has made the experience memorable for me.

Our team had the privilege of meeting two absolutely wonderful doctors who run charities for disadvantaged children in Vietnam and organize a week of free treatments in a hospital in Hoi Ann every year (before the pandemic). They donate their own money, time, resources and enormous dedication to helping children with cleft palates and upper lid ptosis. Hundreds of people seek out their services each year. We were fortunate to join their group in 2019 and help with everything we could – from surgery assistance to taking photographs.

The local people’s response amazed us the most – everywhere we went in town, we encountered people recognizing our crew and thanking us in the most sincere way. This was the most emotional and powerful trip of our lifetime! The opportunity to meet such inspiring people only makes me love this business even more!”

The medical spa has locations in Chicago & Glenview, IL and Miami FL.

Schedule a consultation & determine the right treatment plan for you.
newimageworks.com
Boost Brainpower

NEW EPISODE: Toxic People Unmasked | How to Protect Yourself from Negative Influences

By Kristina Lufian 3215
In our latest episode, we delve into the intricate world of toxic relationships with licensed clinical professional counselor, Maria Shenkman. Drawing upon her extensive expertise in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (C-DBT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Shenkman provides invaluable insights into recognizing toxic behaviors and equipping oneself against their detrimental impacts.

Hosted by yours truly, Kristina Lufian, this episode addresses pressing questions many of us grapple with in the face of toxic interactions. From recognizing toxic behaviors to implementing effective coping mechanisms, Shenkman shares practical advice informed by her wealth of experience and training.

“I have worked in a variety of professional settings, providing therapeutic services in community outreach centers, schools, nonprofit organizations, executive counseling settings as well as private practice. My clinical focus includes adults, adolescents, families, and older adults. I believe in creating a supportive environment, bringing innovative solutions, and providing practical feedback to meet the unique needs of clients in individual and group settings. I base my approach on expanding self-awareness and facilitating change. In my work, I incorporate evidence-based mindfulness practices as well as mainstream psychotherapy approaches.”

-Maria Shenkman

WATCH NOW

Join Maria for a cup of coffee in Kristina’s living room and empower yourself against toxic influences. Leave your questions or suggestions in the comments below and subscribe to our channel.

“The methods I use are directed toward helping clients learn to understand themselves comprehensively and lead more functional, conscious, and productive lives. I implement an eclectic therapeutic style. I believe that change is possible for every client and incorporate individualized treatment methods addressing the unique needs of each client. My areas of interest include helping clients who present with depression, stress-related issues, anxiety, trauma, impulse control issues, behavioral problems, relationship issues/abuse, and parental difficulties. My mission is to empower individuals to discover their values and build skills and confidence that will aid them in creating a positive trajectory for change.”

-Maria Shenkman

You May Also Like, Watch Next

From Editor Lufian Stars

Video Interview with a journalist who escaped Venezuela in pursuit of democracy in the US

By Kristina Lufian 1031
Join Kristina Lufian in a riveting conversation with Erwin Lopez, a journalist and historian, as they delve deep into the intricate web of global politics, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the looming specter of upcoming elections. Broadcasting from Chicago, Lopez, a former political refugee from Venezuela, shares his remarkable journey of survival and advocacy for democracy and freedom of speech.

Having escaped the clutches of political persecution in Venezuela, where he bravely opposed the Russian-backed dictatorship, Lopez brings a unique perspective to the table. Through his experiences and expertise, he sheds light on the challenges facing individuals fighting for democracy in authoritarian regimes and the significance of the ongoing geopolitical struggles. In this insightful interview, Lufian and Lopez dissect the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine war, exploring its ramifications on global stability and the delicate balance of power. They also analyze the upcoming elections and their potential impact on the geopolitical landscape.

WATCH NOW
episode shorts
Inspiration

Your Ultimate Bucket List Before New Year’s Eve

By Kristina Lufian 1233
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure as we delve into a curated list of captivating experiences designed to elevate the remainder of your 2023. Discover the joy of new adventures and the transformative power of personal growth through this carefully crafted bucket list. Let’s make the upcoming months a celebration of life’s most meaningful moments!
Arm yourself with the following bucket list ideas to triumph over the rest of this year.
  • Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Rise above the world as the sun paints the sky with hues of dawn. Experience the breathtaking beauty of a hot air balloon for a memory that will last a lifetime.

  • Learn a Dance Style:

Unleash your inner dancer! Whether it’s salsa, tango, or hip-hop, pick a dance style that intrigues you and join a class. Let the rhythm guide your journey.

  • Solo Weekend Getaway:

Plan a spontaneous solo trip. Explore a nearby town, unwind in nature, or indulge in a cozy weekend retreat. Embrace the freedom of solo exploration.

  • Mindfulness Retreat:

 Immerse yourself in a mindfulness retreat. Disconnect from the chaos, practice meditation, and rediscover the tranquility within.

  • Stargazing Camping Night:

Pitch a tent under the stars and spend a night immersed in the wonders of the cosmos. Capture constellations, enjoy a campfire, and savor the magic of the night.

  • Master a Musical Instrument:

Choose an instrument that resonates with you and embark on a musical journey. Whether it’s a guitar, piano, or flute, let the melodies flow.

  • Cook a Signature Dish:

Become a culinary artist by mastering a signature dish. Host a dinner party and impress friends and family with your newfound cooking skills.

  • Artistic Paint and Sip Night:

Attend a paint and sip class with friends. Express your creativity on canvas while enjoying good company and, of course, your favorite beverage.

  • Volunteer for a Cause:

Dedicate your time to a cause close to your heart. Whether it’s community service, environmental projects, or supporting local charities, make a positive impact.

  • Scenic Road Trip:

Hit the open road and embark on a scenic road trip. Discover hidden gems, picturesque landscapes, and create a travelogue of unforgettable moments.

  • Outdoor Yoga Retreat:

Practice yoga in nature’s embrace. Attend an outdoor yoga retreat surrounded by mountains, beaches, or lush greenery for a rejuvenating experience.

  • Write a Letter to Your Future Self:

Sit down and pen a letter to your future self. Share dreams, goals, and reflections. Seal it and open it at the end of the year for a self-discovery journey.

  • Host a Theme Dinner Party:

Get creative with a theme dinner party. Whether it’s a retro night, costume party, or international cuisine, host an unforgettable evening for friends.

  • Visit a Literary Landmark:

Explore a literary landmark or bookish destination. Walk in the footsteps of your favorite authors and immerse yourself in the world of literature.

  • Attend a Live Performance:

Experience the magic of a live performance. Whether it’s a concert, play, or comedy show, let the energy of the stage captivate your senses.

  • Learn a New Language:

Expand your horizons by learning a new language. Whether it’s for travel, cultural appreciation, or personal growth, embrace the joy of multilingualism.

  • Create a Time Capsule:

Gather meaningful items, notes, and mementos, and create a time capsule. Bury it or store it for future discovery, encapsulating memories of the present.

  • Digital Detox Weekend:

Disconnect from technology for an entire weekend. Reconnect with nature, indulge in face-to-face interactions, and savor the simplicity of the unplugged life.

  • Host a Film Marathon Night:

Pick a film series or genre and host a movie marathon night. Invite friends, prepare snacks, and enjoy a cinematic journey from the comfort of your home.

  • Take a Photography Expedition:

Channel your inner photographer and embark on a photography expedition. Capture the beauty of your surroundings and create a visual diary of your adventures.

  • Join a Public Speaking Club:

Boost your confidence and communication skills by joining a public speaking club. Overcome the fear of speaking in front of an audience and unleash your oratory prowess.

Remember, life’s most meaningful experiences often lie in the pursuit of new adventures and personal growth. Seize the remainder of 2023 with these exciting and fulfilling bucket list items! 
Zlata Ognevich, Kazka and Alyosha in the United States of America
From Editor Inspiration Lufian Stars

Ukrainian celebrities speak to Americans during US tour in effort to stop the Russian war

By Kristina Lufian 1554 3

Did you know that you are witnessing a historic year of modern civilization? Do you realize how your unifying with the Ukrainian people makes a difference to humanity? Your support has been proven to be effective and powerful in combating the evil intentions of global terrorist Putin.

In this episode, we speak with celebrities, politicians, and volunteers from Ukraine and the US at the Chicago charity event in support of Ukraine: their experience of fleeing during Russian bomb explosions, gratitude for American solidarity, and words of support for the Ukrainian Army. 

The year 2022 will mark a milestone in history, as the world is being introduced to a new form of inspiration – the spirit of the Ukrainian people, The Armed Forces of Ukraine, and President Zelensky. With the invasion and ongoing genocide in Ukraine, the Russian Federation had no idea that their aggression and terrorism would bring such a profound unity to its democratic neighbor nation, nor could they ever imagine that the Ukrainian people would inspire the entire planet.

Now, the civilized world has united and is working together to fight the global terrorists, who still threaten the planet with nuclear war. While many forms of support have been given across the globe, this episode shows the significant role played by the United States. Let the voices of the Ukrainian people be heard and help them stop Russian aggression.

New Episode

The interview with Zlata Ognevich, Alyosha, Kazka and other Ukrainians who travel from country to country, spreading their big message.

Charity Gala Event “We Stand with Ukraine” in Chicago was organized by Show Impulse, FTI Agency, and Chicago UA. Donations from ticket sales went to Charity Organization UNWLA (Chicago Branch #140) to support relief efforts in Ukraine.

Glory to heroes!
From Editor

My gratitude to the Russians on behalf of all Ukrainians

By Kristina Lufian 1241

With experience comes wisdom

Growing up in Ukraine, I dreamed of discovering an unexplored yet fascinating world that seemed so grand and exciting. My dreams were as big as any healthy teenager’s, and it was nothing wrong to wish success and prosperity. The more life lessons I learn in March of 2022, the more I begin to believe I cared about the most meaningless and invaluable things that today seem to be the last things that can truly make a person happy. Is this what you call wisdom?

Today, I think of those Ukrainian children who are hiding in bomb shelters and getting evacuated as missile explosions and gunfire ring out in the background. I wonder if they feel the same way about the world as we do? What are their dreams? Will they become a healthy next generation? What if The Cranberries “Zombie” lyrics “in your head, they’re still fighting with their tanks, and their bombs, in your head, they are dying” will become their mentality?

A little girl was seen in tears after saying goodbye to her father (Image: REUTERS)

Anger

I’ve been hearing a lot lately that the current war in Ukraine is showing who is who inside the country and outside the borders. Personally, I have made cardinal conclusions about people and the world that will change my life, my perspective, and even my tolerance during these few weeks of an unspeakable Russian invasion in the 21st century:

  • They are not you, they think differently from you;
  • People do not always share your moral values, nor do they care what matters to you: some prefer to exist, not live;
  • While some do not understand the meaning of dignity, others would rather die than live without it;
  • Some even find happiness in genocide and watching an entire nation of men, children, and women suffer blood and fear.

But the most important and scariest part is that it has been happening in history, we always knew it exists on Earth and we actually don’t learn from history.

racism

They say it’s not me, it’s Putin… Are Putin’s sons bombing the heart of Europe today and killing civilians? Has Putin been killing and arresting Ukrainians since 1860 for speaking or writing in Ukrainian? Perhaps he confiscated food from them 90 years ago, causing 4 million souls to die of hunger?

An explosion in Kyiv early Thursday, Feb. 24. Explosions were heard before dawn in Kyiv, Kharkiv and Odesa. Photo: Ukrainian President's office / via Zuma Press
The Valuev Circular of 1860, designed to eradicate the usage of Ukrainian language.

Kharkiv, 1933

Dead child on the streets of Kharkiv, Ukraine, during the Holodomor 1933
Dead child on the streets of Kharkiv, Ukraine, during the Holodomor, photo by Alexander Wienerberger, 1933.

Kharkiv, 2022

A man mourns near a body after a Russian airstrike hits Kharkiv, 2022 (Image: Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

People say that history repeats itself. Maybe it does, but only for those who are too small-minded to learn from it and evolve. Let me tell you something: not for the Ukrainian people! Not this time! Never EVER again! That’s right, you are small-minded, for there is no other way to explain why you do not comprehend this nation, its freedom, dignity, and its internationally recognized spirit. You have no clue what those are, and you want to destroy it all because your arrogance prevents you from letting others have what you cannot.

History in the making

“You are big, but we are great,” the Ukrainian lyrics that will live on forever. 144 million Russians turned their backs on Ukrainian tears and refused to stop their leader. From now on, the civilized nations view you as silent, willful, and evil ruthless Racists with dark souls, and limited intelligence.

As a result, the history books will portray Russians as marauders who rape and murder women in Kherson, loot, bomb hospitals, kill women along with unborn babies in their wombs, who officially refuse to repatriate thousands of corpses of their own army that are still lying in the fields throughout Ukraine, most of whose IDs identify them as 18-years-olds.

This is your face, this is how civilization will identify the Russian federation’s people, and this is what students will be learning in schools across the globe until the end of time.

Ukrainian emergency employees and volunteers carry an injured pregnant woman from the damaged by shelling maternity hospital in Mariupol, Ukraine on March 9. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)
Ukrainian emergency employees and volunteers carry an injured pregnant woman from the damaged by shelling maternity hospital in Mariupol, Ukraine on March 9. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)
Wounded... teacher Helena, 53, was injured by glass in Chuhuiv. (Image: Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Wounded... teacher Helena, 53, was injured by glass in Chuhuiv. (Image: Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Ukrainian soldiers tried to save a man, the only one who still had a pulse, after being hit by a mortar while trying to flee Irpin, near Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sunday.LYNSEY ADDARIO/NYT
Ukrainian soldiers tried to save a man, the only one who still had a pulse, after being hit by a mortar while trying to flee Irpin, near Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sunday.LYNSEY ADDARIO/NYT
Ukrainian servicemen try to help people wounded, in the town of Irpin, Ukraine, Sunday, March 6, 2022. With the Kremlin’s rhetoric growing fiercer and a reprieve from fighting dissolving, Russian troops continued to shell encircled cities and the number of Ukrainians forced from their country grew to over 1.4 million. (AP Photo/Andriy Dubchak)
Ukrainian servicemen try to help people wounded, in the town of Irpin, Ukraine, Sunday, March 6, 2022. With the Kremlin’s rhetoric growing fiercer and a reprieve from fighting dissolving, Russian troops continued to shell encircled cities and the number of Ukrainians forced from their country grew to over 1.4 million. (AP Photo/Andriy Dubchak)
A high-rise apartment block was hit by Russian missile overnight in Kyiv. 2022
A high-rise apartment block was hit by Russian missile overnight in Kyiv. 2022
Dead bodies are placed into a mass grave on the outskirts of Mariupol, Ukraine, Wednesday, March 9, 2022, as people cannot bury their dead because of the heavy shelling by Russian forces. EVGENIY MALOLETKA/AP PHOTO
Dead bodies are placed into a mass grave on the outskirts of Mariupol, Ukraine, Wednesday, March 9, 2022, as people cannot bury their dead because of the heavy shelling by Russian forces. EVGENIY MALOLETKA/AP PHOTO

Honestly, I feel bad for you because you have chosen to burn in hell forever out of your own free will. Our hearts go out to those few percent of your adequate individuals who speak up, protest, and do anything to preserve their Russian identity. Because of you, they become prisoners on their own land, lose their freedom of expression, and are isolated from the rest of the world. Yet, I don’t feel bad that this is how the world will remember the rest of you – miserable humans without a trace of humanity. There are thousands of murders every day, and it will take you a thousand years to pay for each.

The 15th day of the war – a day in which I saw life in black and white which had previously appeared complex. In the aftermath of Russian aggression, I have had to reframe things, learn lessons, change perspectives, and clarify everything.

You’ve taught us wisdom, you’ve shown us your ugly souls, you’ve made our President the most admired leader in the world, you’ve united Ukrainians and made us the most fearless nation on the planet, so thank you so much! By your efforts, I, like 43 million Ukrainians, know who I am, what I am worth, what I am capable of, and what a privilege it is to be part of the great Ukrainian spirit.

MY SINCERE THANKS TO THE RUSSIAN PEOPLE

I want to apologize for my unethical fury. It’s unacceptable for a journalist to express emotions, even if the journalist is a native Ukrainian who fears the deadly consequences for her family and homeland. 

As compensation, I would like to point out some of the significant contributions of the Russian people. In the name of all Ukrainians, I would like to sincerely thank you for your efforts and the following inputs:

  • People of all ages, of all nationalities, of different languages and religions, stand with Ukraine and paint blue and yellow colors;
  • The world has united into one nation called humanity and hope;
  • Ukraine is becoming a symbol of democracy, power, and peace;
  • From every corner of the countryside to the farthest reaches of the city, you hear “Glory to the Ukrainian heroes!”;
  • Everybody from Leo Di Caprio, Mila Kunis and Elon Musk to little children in every nation is eagerly anticipating the official victory of the war that you have already lost;
  • The whole world knows that Putin is huilo;
  • The light will triumph over the darkness.
I am Ukraine!

In March 2022, I have grown a thousand years wiser. From New York to Prague, blue and yellow colors cherish my spirit.

I am Ukraine. It is my President and my heroes who are changing the world. My children are raised to live in dignity and to celebrate the Lord’s truth.

As God used his son Jesus to bring life, light, love, and wisdom to the world, He is now using my land and people to bring unity around the world, empower the human spirit, and win the battle against darkness.

 I am Ukraine, always have been and always will be!
Consuelo Vega Lufian Star
Lufian Stars Magazine Articles

Consuelo Vega: The Story Of A Small-town Girl Who Makes It To Hollywood

By Kristina Lufian 1527
Downtown Chicago. Frozen Lake Michigan and the bright lights of the Chicago skyline. She is taking in the view and savoring her second cup of cappuccino. Today like never, she is ready to share her story with the world. A story that reminds me of a Hollywood movie script that she’s been hiding for many years. 
Here in front of me at the coffee table, I see a self-confident beaming blonde that proudly introduces herself as a Mexican film actress and a businesswoman. In her background, over 14 of her movies are listed on the IMDB, and her image represents only success, recognition and admiration.
In this perfect picture, for the first time, while she remains in the United States, she is about to reveal how overcoming barriers of a very humble beginning, she’s built herself and the life she always wanted. And here she is, Consuelo Vega, in a world of contrasts, confesses to Lufian Magazine that her current image of success actually came from an extremely poor childhood in a small Mexican town.

Life in a garage

While she’s celebrating her life today, she recalls the years of sleeping with her parents and siblings in her auntie’s garage without any beds and a barely-working fan in tremendously hot weather. “As a kid, I never had a big appetite, so luckily our family not having enough food on the table was never a problem for me. And now, I am definitely making up for all those years of not eating enough,” she says laughing.

How It All Started

Living in a small garage, little Consuelo didn’t know anything about the limits of her dreams. She would write story after story, converting them into scripts and asking her friends to rehearse the plays with her. She assured all of her neighbors that very soon she would be a famous actress.

Nobody would imagine that years later, the little girl’s fantasy would become her reality. Living her dream in the movie industry today, Vega has worked in films in Hollywood, Bollywood, as well as for Hispanic films and stage plays with highly renowned Hispanic actors.

Today’s Recognition

“Lo mas sencillo es complicarlo todo,” one of her latest projects, has become the 3rd most successful movie of the month in Mexico after it hit movie theaters; currently being broadcasted on Netflix. Her most recent film “Tijuana, I love you” is soon to be released in movie theaters also and has already been acquired by Netflix. 

Millions of people in the world don’t even dare to dream of Hollywood and an acting career thinking it’s unreachable. And most of those who do try, focus too much on the fame and luxurious lifestyle which rarely results in any success on the big screen. The reality of this career is that statistically less than 1% of actors ever make it. Vega confesses that due to its highly competitive industry, an actor that chases fame and money without a passion for the craft simply gets “a ticket to frustration instead of enjoying the journey of an acting career.”

Keep learning. You’re never fully grown as an artist.

Consuelo Vega

So What It’s Really Like to Live a Dream Life in Reality?

Very often you are not taken seriously. Outside of Hollywood, many people tell Consuelo that acting is not a serious career. Very little do they know that besides being an actress, she has a college degree, runs her own businesses and dedicates months of each year to filming. “I must confess, even being a business owner and making a living from it, I was never able to escape my heart from being an actress. I truly believe we can succeed at anything we commit and work hard at,” she tells Lufian Magazine.

I do not regret even for a minute my decision of getting a degree in accounting and finance first, as it is something I enjoy as well. It also helped me get on my feet and overcome poverty.

Vega believes that managing her own business has helped her acting career to a great extent, as it allowed her to work in a more relaxed environment, to reduce uncertainties and stresses about the future.

Presentan en México la película ‘Lo más sencillo es complicarlo todo’. Photo: MEZCALENT

No.1 Question: How To Enter the Movie Industry and the World of Celebrities?

This is a question she gets early and often. Many have the false impression that “it’s enough to be attractive” or “it’s all about connections.” Well, Consuelo Vega belongs to the 1% that made it and is ready to share all the tips and secrets with Lufian readers on how to become an actor and, moreover, how to get a real role in a film.

Sorry to disappoint you, but the answer is very simple, yet most realistic: “You do so only by getting trained, getting good at what you do and keep polishing your craft.” Because no matter how good connections you have and how good-looking you are, you can’t get a role if your talent can’t support it. “The same way having a connection in a hospital wouldn’t give you a job as a doctor if you don’t have the proper training in med school,” Consuelo assures. In this regard, acting is no different than any other occupation.

How to get started as an actor?

The acting industry as a discovery of new interests

The beauty of acting practices is that one can always boost brain power such as memory, productivity, improvisation and creativity. In other words, acting is like an entertaining brain exercise.

Actress Consuelo Vega didn’t stop at acting. Very soon in the film industry, she discovered a new passion for photography, video storytelling and editing.

Today, not only you can find her in front of the camera but behind it as well. “As a storyteller, I now film videos and take artistic pictures to share with my followers on social media. Through my camera lens, I aim to inspire them and make them feel something by sharing my journey as an actress and my love for traveling,” she tells Lufian Magazine.

Consuelo Vega Lufian Star
Consuelo Vega. Photo: Apollo Reyes

You are personally invited to connect with Consuelo Vega on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook under @ConsuelovVegaMX and get inspired by her content. “Photographs are the pause button of life so we can savor moments,” she describes her works.

In the meantime, stay tuned for the release of the new movie “Tijuana, I love you!” featuring Consuelo Vega. She promises an exciting project with seven stories tied together, each of which has an intriguing and unexpected ending. You can easily find it on Netflix soon after its release in movie theatres.