Meet Brandon Bailey | Actor, Model, Author, Host

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

Hi Brandon, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking has played a major role in both my life and career. I don’t think it’s possible to build an unconventional life without being willing to take risks. Nearly every meaningful opportunity I’ve had came from stepping into the unknown before I felt completely ready.
One of the biggest risks I took was allowing myself to evolve publicly. Early in my career, many people knew me for a specific image, and it would have been easier to stay in that lane. Instead, I chose to explore acting, writing, public speaking, advocacy, and eventually launching my podcast. Each of those decisions came with uncertainty because there was no guarantee people would follow me into those new chapters.
I’ve also learned that not taking a risk can sometimes be the biggest risk of all. Fear has a way of keeping people comfortable, but growth usually happens on the other side of discomfort. Some risks have paid off exactly as I hoped, while others taught me valuable lessons and redirected me toward something better.
That doesn’t mean I make reckless decisions. I believe in taking calculated risks.Trusting my instincts, doing the work, and being willing to fail if it means staying true to myself. Looking back, the moments that shaped my life the most weren’t the times I played it safe; they were the times I chose courage over certainty.
Today, I view risk as an investment in possibility. Even when the outcome is unclear, I’d rather take a chance on growth than spend my life wondering “what if.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For me, art has always been about connection. Whether I’m modeling, acting, writing, creating content, hosting my podcast, or simply sharing my experiences online, the goal has always been the same: to make people feel seen and remind them that they aren’t alone.
Many people were first introduced to me through my modeling career and the “real-life Ken” label, but what excites me most today is telling stories and having meaningful conversations. Through my podcast, social media platforms, and other creative projects, I’ve tried to create spaces where people can be authentic, vulnerable, and inspired to embrace who they truly are.
What sets me apart is my willingness to share both the highlights and the hardships. We live in a world that often rewards perfection, but I’ve found that people connect most deeply with honesty. I’ve experienced success, but I’ve also experienced rejection, self-doubt, setbacks, and moments where I questioned everything. Rather than hide those experiences, I’ve tried to use them to help others feel less alone in their own struggles.
Getting to where I am today professionally was far from easy. I’ve spent more than 15 years building my career, and there were many moments when things didn’t happen as quickly as I hoped. There were opportunities that fell through, doors that closed, and seasons where I felt like I was giving everything I had without seeing the results. What helped me overcome those challenges was learning that resilience is often more important than talent. I kept showing up, kept evolving, and kept believing there was a purpose behind every setback.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t something you arrive at it’s something you grow through. The setbacks taught me as much as the victories. They taught me patience, gratitude, humility, and the importance of staying true to yourself even when it’s difficult.
If there’s one thing I want people to know about me and my brand, it’s that authenticity will always be at the center of everything I do. My story isn’t about being perfect. It’s about growth, perseverance, and having the courage to keep becoming who you’re meant to be. If my journey inspires even one person to believe in themselves a little more, then everything I’ve been through has been worth it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I mostly live in NYC now but if my best friend was visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d want them to experience the city the way I do when i’m there not just the tourist attractions, but the energy, creativity, and diversity that make LA so unique.
We’d start the mornings with a workout and a hike at Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park. There’s something magical about watching the city wake up while taking in those incredible views. From there we’d grab coffee and spend the day exploring different neighborhoods because every part of LA feels like its own world.
One day would be dedicated to Malibu. We’d drive up the coast, spend time by the ocean, and catch the sunset. Another day would be spent in West Hollywood, exploring local shops, restaurants, and some of the incredible LGBTQ+ spaces that have helped shape the city’s culture and sense of community.
As someone who works in entertainment, I’d also want to show them the creative side of LA. We’d check out live music, comedy shows, film screenings, and events where artists, creators, and dreamers come together. One of my favorite things about Los Angeles is that almost everyone here is passionate about something, and that energy is contagious.
We’d definitely make time for great food because LA has some of the best dining in the world. One night could be sushi, the next authentic Mexican food, and another a hidden neighborhood gem. The city’s diversity is reflected in its food scene, and that’s one of the things I love most about it.
Most importantly, I’d want them to experience the people. LA often gets stereotyped, but I’ve met some of the most creative, ambitious, resilient, and inspiring individuals here. Behind the palm trees and red carpets are people chasing dreams, reinventing themselves, and building communities.
At the end of the week, I wouldn’t want them to leave thinking LA is just a place. I’d want them to leave understanding it’s an experience a city that constantly reminds you that anything is possible if you’re willing to work for it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who have played a role in my journey, but if I had to dedicate this shoutout, it would be to everyone who believed in me during the moments when I struggled to believe in myself.
I’d especially like to recognize my family, close friends, mentors, and the supporters who have followed my journey over the years. The entertainment industry can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging and unpredictable. Having people in my corner who reminded me of my worth beyond achievements, appearances, or public recognition made all the difference.
I also want to give a shoutout to the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who has always tried to live authentically and encourage others to do the same, I’ve found strength, inspiration, and connection through people who have had the courage to be themselves despite obstacles and criticism. Their resilience has inspired me throughout my own journey.
And finally, I’d like to thank every person who has ever shared their story with me. Whether through social media, my podcast, or everyday conversations, those moments of human connection have taught me that success isn’t measured by titles or accolades it’s measured by the lives we touch and the impact we have on one another. Those experiences continue to shape who I am and remind me why I do what I do.

Image Credits
Photographer: Frank Louis
Stylist: Kristopher Fraser