“Your daily habits will define your success, so set them early in your career.” – Amy Robbins

 

  Welcome to Face Time. DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series goes beyond the runways and glossy editorials to get to know top local models on a personal level. Our interviews with Tracy Ripsin, Christina Reed, Myles Crosby, Daniel Crouch, Atti Worku, Tiffany Hendra, and many more, have captured the attention of thousands. They’ve also proved, beyond a doubt, that Texas-based models are among the most fascinating and accomplished in the country. Today’s model Texan is no exception to the rule. A native of Prosper, Amy Robbins’ resume reveals a modern take on the triple threat: model, host, and writer-producer. You might recognize her piercing blue eyes, in fact, from the talk show NOIR, which she co-hosted and produced. But lights and cameras are only half of Amy’s story. A self-proclaimed “fitness junkie,” Robbins also maintains an athlete’s daily physical regimen, and an entire second career, as well. Read on for her story, sure to inspire and motivate.  

  Name: Amy Robbins Hometown: Prosper, Texas Agency: The Campbell Agency   DFW Style Daily: At what age did you begin modeling? Were you scouted or did you pursue modeling as a career? Amy Robbins: “I was scouted at age 15 by IMG at a local modeling convention. My parents were extremely supportive, but placed a high value on education. They encouraged me to always pursue my dreams, but to do so after I finished school.”   You are also an experienced television host. What attracted you to this additional aspect of the industry?  “Hosting is extremely attractive to me because it allows me to be active and get out all of my pent-up energy. It also gives me a platform to speak on issues that I’m passionate about. But, to be honest, when I was first approached about hosting, I was terrified. Suddenly, I was aware of all the scrutiny and criticism I was about to experience, and I didn’t think I was fully prepared for it. However, once I told myself that I was not going to let the fear define me, but to drive me to be better, I really began to grow and become more confident in who I am as a host.”  

  Do you recall a favorite, unusual, or particularly memorable assignment? “The time I spent with several Delta Force and Navy Seal officers in preparation for a show I did in Dallas was unforgettable. The knowledge of these men, and their sacrificial attitude toward our country, made a lasting impression. Oh, and shooting a full-auto MP5 was pretty memorable, as well!”   In addition to modeling and hosting, you are also a writer-producer. What is the key to keeping each specialty in balance? “The key to keeping it all balanced is being willing to put in many sleepless nights and long hours, and to face any fears you may have, head-on.”   Do you have any words of wisdom for others who aspire to work in the entertainment industry? “Surround yourself with people who love you, and who will be honest with you and keep you grounded. Take all fame, big or small, as well as criticism, with a grain of salt. Things can be taken away as quickly as they are given. Lastly, be willing to put in a lot of work if you want to be good. Your daily habits will define your success, so set them early in your career.”  

  As with many of the multi-talented individuals we have interviewed in this series, you also maintain a career outside of the spotlight. Why is your second career a priority? “As I mentioned earlier, my parents always pushed us to value education. So, as I worked toward a career in the entertainment industry, I pursued a degree in Dental Hygiene. It ended up being one of the best decisions of my life. In dentistry, I have always had teams around me that believed in me and supported my dreams. To this day, the doctor I work for gives me as much time off as I need, whenever I book projects or have an audition.”   Your work as a dental hygienist has also crossed over into philanthropic efforts. Tell us about your missionary work. “I've been going on mission trips all over the world, from a young age. They ranged from providing medical and dental aide, to working in orphanages. I still go on trips now, and my husband and I are also deeply involved with a group called Compassion International. We hope to set up a trip to meet with the kids very soon, and let them know how they have changed our lives forever!”   Speaking of your husband, you’re married to your childhood sweetheart. How did you meet? “I have been married to my best friend for nine years. I met him at age seven, and it was a classic ‘boy meets girl’ story. I didn't know quite how to flirt, so I started making fun of his big ears. He didn't like that very much, so he started crying, then reared back and kicked me in the shin. From then on we were close friends!”  

  Any tips for keeping the romance alive in a long-term relationship? “We have learned the art of not only loving one another, but liking each other, as well. My husband is truly my best friend. We have been able to find things we love to do together, like training for marathons, traveling, or just sitting on our back porch to watch the sun go down.”   Finally, do you have time any hobbies? Guilty pleasures? “Heck yes I do, or I would go insane! Being an outdoor girl, I hit the back roads or trails around my house for a run, on a daily basis. As far as guilty pleasures go, my husband keeps at least ten packages of Haribo gummy bears in the pantry for when I get a craving. Being a true Dallas girl, I have to have a Mambo Taxi from Mi Cocina every now and then, too!”   All images, courtesy of Amy Robbins. Top line image and images four and five, credit Bode Helm/D Magazine.