Actress, wife, and entertainment veteran, Meagan Good is the big sister we wished we had growing up. With multifaceted ventures in film and entrepreneurship I catch up with Meagan about mental health during a pandemic, the sisterhood that keeps her grounded, and her directorial debut in her latest project “If Not Now, When?”
Q: “If Not Now, When?” showcases 4 black women coming together in times of crisis. How important is sisterhood in your personal life?
A: Aw man, it’s invaluable. I have girlfriends from when I was 10, 14, and 16 years old that I have in my corner to this day. My friendships have truly sustained me. I have women who pray for me, that I constantly thank God for. One of my bff’s who got married before I did has helped me get through so much. It’s important to have women who reassure you that you are enough and I’m grateful for that.
Q: This was your first film directorial debut. How did you initially feel knowing you would have creative control of your film?
A: It’s funny because I had experience directing music videos in the past so when I was told I was able to direct “If Not Now, When” I was so nervous yet excited. Initially, it was tough because we needed people to believe in the storyline of 4 African American women and were told at times it wouldn’t do well because of that. I had faith that the movie needed to be seen by not just black women but everyone. It was challenging but we stayed true to the vision.
Q: Your character Tyra struggled with substance abuse and mental health. How do you preserve your mental health on and off-screen?
A: I lean on God. I lean on my tribe and my husband. I know in my heart that there will always be people in your life that love you unconditionally.
Q: What advice would you give to Black women struggling with mental health especially during these trying times?
A: I’ve learned that the thing you’re resenting could be the thing that changes your life. You should never be embarrassed about your struggles because in actuality they make you who you are. When you walk in your purpose and come through on the other side, that’s your testimony.
Q: How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance as a wife and entertainer?
A: I put God and my husband before everything and he does the same for me. When I was single I prayed for discernment, guidance, and discipline and God sent me my husband. He’s extremely supportive in everything that I do and vice versa. My husband also has a very busy schedule but God keeps us both centered and I’m so blessed that we are apart of each other’s vision.
Q: It’s no secret you and your husband Devon are extremely in touch with your faith. How have you two been able to remain faithful during the pandemic?
A: Perspective. God is allowing all of this to happen for a reason. I have used this time to really tap into him and ask myself, “What is this supposed to teach me?” Although it is a horrible time in the world there are hidden blessings. I’ve seen people reconnect with loved ones. I’ve seen people complete creative projects they’ve put off for a while because of their hectic schedules. Growth is painful but I think that’s what a lot of people needed to get out of it all. Just being spiritually led has allowed me to grow closer to God. Devon and I decided to do marriage counseling for about 6 months. It was a great experience because it allowed us to reconnect and work on things we may have overlooked in the past. I would cook, he would bake. It was fun.
Q: You’ve been acting since your childhood. Was there a time you wanted to pursue an alternative? If so what would it have been?
A: I thought I’d become a lawyer based on how passionate I would am with arguments *laughs*. But then I saw how much school and time had to be invested in law so I decided not to go that route. Other than that, directing films.
Q: Let’s talk fitness. How have you been able to stay motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
A: Honestly, I haven’t worked out in a while but I will say I do eat healthy for the most part. I just got an air fryer so I’m really excited about that. I’ve been eating things like eggplant parmesan and vegan meat. Being in shape isn’t really about working out, it’s about what you’re putting into your body.
Q: You recently launched your hair bonnet line Good Girl Wraps . What gave you interest in pursuing that?
A: I started wearing faux locs about 6 years ago. I remember going to my hairstylist at the time, Myesha Oliver telling her I wanted a hairstyle similar to Lisa Bonnet’s. After that, I started seeing women like Ciara and Halle Berry rocking it. The issue with my locs was that when I’d work out or try to sleep I would have issues keeping my hair together. Dr. Kerry and I got together and decided to create a scarf for women with not only big hair but for faux locs, dreads, and long braids and it exploded in the market because there weren’t any other products like that around.
Q: What does entrepreneurship mean to you?
A: To me, entrepreneurship means owning whatever you’re passionate about. Staying truly connected to your passions is important. It’s not always about the money. Right now I’m exploring new things like skincare lines or athleisure but I know it will require a lot of my time but I’m sure I’ll figure something out.
Q: Advice to 15-year-old Megan?
A: *laughs* Girl it ain’t that deep. If I knew then what I knew now I would have relaxed. Also- it doesn’t matter who you are and what your circumstances are, you are worthy because God said so. You’re not going to be for everybody and you should be okay with that.