New York, New York
Pursuing an Old Dream in New York City | The Next Brave Thing | Episode 48
During the American summer of 2023, I made a bold decision to step out of my comfort zone. With a little encouragement (okay, a full-on challenge!) from my coach, I decided to revisit a childhood dream—and it’s one my 15-year-old self would be screaming about from the rooftops.
In the summer of 2023, I spent six transformative weeks in New York City, diving headfirst into an acting intensive program.
Yes, acting.
It was a dream that had been tucked away for decades—pushed aside by responsibilities, career pivots, and a million good reasons. For the seven years prior, I had immersed myself in the art world from a different angle—through coaching, mentoring creatives, and helping build a school and programs that nurture personal growth. Creativity was always present, but it had been playing a supporting role.
That summer, it took center stage.
It marked a powerful shift. I wasn’t there to “achieve” something or prove anything—I went to explore, express, and reconnect with a part of myself I once thought I had outgrown. Spoiler alert: I hadn’t.
And living in New York during the summer was unlike anything I had experienced before. All my previous visits had been in the dead of winter. Back then, the city felt electric but a little closed off, wrapped in heavy coats and chilled winds. In summer, it was bursting wide open—with music, color, culture, and an undeniable pulse that awakened something in me.
So, in true Next Brave Thing spirit, I’m sharing some of the places that inspired me, surprised me, and reminded me why following our joy—no matter how long it’s been waiting—is always worth it.
A Few NYC Favorites:
New York is bursting with personality, and each neighborhood has its own vibe. Here are some of the spots that have stolen my heart this summer:
Upper West Side
Maman: Cozy, French-inspired café with dreamy pastries and gorgeous interiors.
Daily Provisions: Their bacon, egg & cheese is next-level. Comfort food at its finest.
Book Culture – Upper Westsider: A charming neighborhood bookstore with a well-curated selection.
Shakespeare & Co.: A New York classic—books and coffee under one roof? Yes, please.
Upper East Side
Ralph’s Coffee: Tucked inside the Ralph Lauren store—chic, cozy, and perfect for people-watching.
Bluestone Lane: A little taste of Aussie brunch culture in NYC. Avocado toast that feels like home.
A perfect Saturday on the Upper East Side starts with a visit to The Met to soak in some world-class art. Afterward, swing by Butterfield Market to grab a gourmet sandwich and coffee, then head to Central Park for a relaxing picnic under the trees. Round out the afternoon with a scenic bike ride around the park—it’s pure New York magic.
SoHo
Ruby’s Café: Another Aussie gem. Casual, sunny, and always delicious.
The Lost Draft: A dreamy café designed for writers, creatives, and slow coffee sippers. I could spend hours here.
West Village (one of my favorite areas)
Three Lives & Company: A tiny, iconic bookstore with tons of charm. I could live here. (Pictured above)
Dante: Legendary cocktails, Italian bites, and all the neighborhood vibes you want on a summer night.
This season of life wasn’t about having all the answers. It’s about staying curious. It’s about honoring those whispers that say, “What if you tried?” And for me, New York has become the setting for that question to unfold.
Thanks for coming on this journey with me. Whether you’re dusting off your own old dream, or simply curious about what’s possible, I hope this inspires you to take your next brave step—whatever that looks like.
With love from NYC,
Ella Hooper
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