Consultant & Strategist: Steven

1. Let's kick it off with a brief introduction - who are you, what do you do, and how can people connect with you.

My name is Steven, and I'm a content creator based in Los Angeles. Aside from the things I showcase on my social channels, I am a consultant and strategist for a few brands with social-forward products and services. I use my platform to highlight the people, places, and things I see on my travels (and what I eat of course).

2. Many know of you as an influencer with the most aesthetically pleasing feed. However, you also were a talent manager as well so you actually have the upper hand in knowing both sides of the industry! What is one lesson you've learned (as a talent manager) that has helped you as an influencer?

I moved out to LA after finishing grad school to get my Masters in Business and then later my CPA. After working in corporate accounting for a bit, I wanted to bridge the gap between creative and cut n dry business. I had the opportunity to help start-up and oversee a talent management company overseeing a large list of influencers, which further deepened my understanding of the industry as a whole. One of the biggest lessons I tell other creators is to stop comparing yourself to other creators (I.e. campaign rates), and to hold strong to your own rate card during the negotiation process. Don't let a brand tell you YOUR worth - numbers are just a surface level metric.

3. Having had seen both sides of the spectrum, do you believe it's necessary to be represented? Why or why not?

It really depends honestly. Some people just need help with admin and emails, but I would suggest getting an assistant for that - you can pay hourly/salary and deduct the expense of taxes. For representation, you need to make sure your income flow or return justifies their percentages. There are so many things a manager can offer, but it just depends on what exactly you're looking to get from it - the same goes with a manager looking to rep a talent.

4. As a male influencer, have you personally experienced gender bias within the industry when it comes to campaigns? If so, how did you handle it?

I have not personally experienced it in the 6yrs or so of working in the space, but I've definitely seen my fair share. When I had a team overseeing some of the talents we repped, you would be surprised at some of the outreach emails we would receive. We would make it a part to decline the opportunity first and foremost, but to also educate and correct the brand or person doing the outreach.

5. 2020 has certainly been a year of learning, growth, reflection, and also UNlearning - what are 2 things you're personally unlearning and why?

Two things I'm unlearning and strive to work on daily: 1. You must always be happy and 2. People's perceptions/expectations of you is your responsibility. Truth is if you let either of those manifest your life you start to be an inauthentic version of yourself. It's both exhausting and unhealthy.

6. Mental wellness is important and with creatives, it can be easy to burnout and feel unmotivated/uninspired. What do you do to ensure that you keep your mental health a priority?

Working out daily has been a saving grace for me. Even if it's a mile walk to get some air and listen to music - moments of pause are needed.

7. Aside from being an influencer, you're also a new homeowner (congrats!!) What tips do you have for anyone else looking to purchase their first home (especially in LA)?

Is this how I start my memoir? Lol. Honestly throw away all expectations you may have. It's such a roller coaster ride from the beginning, and you need to be in the mindset that things will change in an instant. It's definitely a daunting task for freelancers to even begin the process, but I'm looking forward to moving soon!

8. You're also currently renovating your place and it's been so fun following along on Instagram. What are 3 things you've learned from the process so far? Anything you wish you knew beforehand?

Same thing with the home process - throw away your expectations. Once you start renovating things can change every day that can affect your desired end result. You need to be able to roll with the punches and not let every roadblock consume you - otherwise, you won't enjoy the process. The process is always a lot more involved than expected. Although I have a team working on it, I'm at the property daily (sometimes twice a day) overseeing notes and progress with them.

9. You've been an advocate for supporting small brands/businesses. What are your favorite small business home brands right now?

Some of my favorite brands are Hawkins New York, Vitruvi, Ferm LIVING, and any mom n' pop shops in the LA area to source products.

10. Lastly, what do you think people in the world could use a little more of right now?

Empathy. Everyone has a story that follows them - don't just read into the surface level of their being.