Meet Dustin Grabiner | Owner and Innovator at HK Sensory Gyms

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dustin Grabiner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dustin, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
An astounding yes! When I was in the film industry, work-life balance was nonexistent—they owned my time. Twelve-hour days plus commute were standard, and I rarely chose my own schedule; you either accept the project or you don’t work. In such a competitive environment, there was always someone ready to take your place if you turned down a job. Over time, I realized the instability and lack of loyalty weren’t what I wanted for the long haul, so I began searching for a way out.

Five or six years ago, I found that answer in sensory gyms. Since then, I’ve been building this business, working nationwide with a talented team to create beautiful sensory spaces and deliver exceptional service. While I mostly set my own schedule now and find balance, there are still times when a client deadline requires us to push harder. Overall, though, I’m dedicated to fostering a balanced life and owning my schedule.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
With a 20-year career in the film industry, building sets and props for films, TV, commercials, and events, I’ve developed a unique and invaluable skill set that could only be gained through hands-on experience. However, I felt a growing need to apply these skills to something more purposeful. I wanted to create beautiful, functional things that serve humanity. I believe that at the intersection of one’s skills and the world’s needs lies true vocation, and I wanted my work to make a lasting impact.

It certainly hasn’t been easy—this journey has been full of twists and challenges as I transition from the film industry to building sensory gyms. Crafting beautiful, purposeful spaces is just one part of it. Running a business, understanding clients’ needs, and delivering solutions with a positive attitude is equally vital. Building large, complex installations, transporting them across the country, and overseeing the final setup is no small feat. Luckily, my film background prepared me for this. I’m grateful for the lessons learned—and those yet to come—as I continue creating meaningful, impactful spaces.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I was born and raised in the Los Angeles area, growing up in the San Fernando Valley and eventually settling in Hermosa Beach. After 15 years in Hermosa, it truly feels like home. It has that rare, small-town feel where you get to know the community and local businesses that make this place so special. Nestled along the coast, our beach community is extraordinary—I’ve traveled widely, yet nothing quite matches the beauty of the beaches here. My workshop is here in Hermosa Beach, and being part of this community feels truly special. I love the walkability, the friendly neighbors, and the sense of connection that fills this place. It’s a fantastic environment, both for creating and for feeling rooted.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my wife, Alysia, an incredible entrepreneur who owns multiple fitness studios in Los Angeles and constantly redefines what it takes to succeed in business. She’s been my rock in my career transition, always encouraging me to improve and serving as a sounding board when I need to work out challenges. Her support has been instrumental in my growth, and together, we make a truly unstoppable team.

Website: https://www.HKsensorygyms.com

Instagram: @hksensorygyms

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-grabiner-b7788110a/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HermosaKustoms/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HKSensoryGyms

Image Credits
Photos by Philip Burrow