Sarah Cloutier is the Executive Producer of Production and VFX at creative technology and content agency Rotor Studios.
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1) To kick things off, could you tell us a little about your career background and current role?
Extensive 30+ years in film, television, visual effects both in post production and location filming. I’m currently in an Executive Producer role managing a team of eight producers for a visual effects and animation company specialising in automotive CGI and live action production.
2) What does a day in the life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday?
Always start my day with a stretch and exercise/gym session then inevitably a series of meetings with inclusion, laughter, empowerment and harmony.
I’m not a breakfast fan so usually have a light lunch or snack. Over the years I have realised that large meals don’t equal energy and my body prefers less food to function highly while at work.
3) Does your current role allow for flexible or remote working? If so, how does that fit into your life and routine?
The studio teams are mostly back in the office and we have found it’s supportive to be together. Two members of my team are still partially or fully remote. As a manager, I prefer to be in the office with the team to support them and also to have a real-time experience of any tension so I can mitigate and resolve.
4) What does work-life balance mean to you and how do you work to achieve that goal?
I see it as life-life balance. Whatever we ‘do’ we always need to be ourselves and honour our rhythms, whether at work, home, relationships etc etc. Who I am at work is the same me that I take to the supermarket, on vacation, to a meeting and to bed in the evening.
When I am true to myself and authentic, balance is naturally occurring no matter where I happen to be. I do that by eating well, exercising, listening, reflecting, being open to change and being honest with myself.
5) In the past 12 months, have you started or stopped any routines or habits to change your life?
I am in a similar rhythm that I have been in for about 15 years! I am going to study for an MBA in 2021, so that will be fun!
6) Do you have any favourite books, podcasts or newsletters that you’d like to recommend?
I’m a fan of autobiographies to get a sense of what other people are feeling and how they experience life. Podcasts at the moment are – Wild Ideas Worth Living, NutritionFacts and This American Life – until next week when there will be many more.
7) Are there any products, gadgets or apps that you can’t live without?
Anything from Sea to Summit I can’t live without! And my National Parks campsite and hiking app. And the Starlight app so I can read the stars!
8) If you could read an interview about work-life balance by anyone, who would that be?
Dr Michael Greger, relentless and inspirational.
9) Do you have any last thoughts on work, life or balance that you’d like to share with our readers?
Remember that everything you do, all the time, is part of who you are in every minute. The quality of your life is reflected in your work and life, so balance and harmony are essential to remain consistent, reliable and inspiring to everyone around you.
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