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

Hi Josh, how do you think about risk?
Risk is something that I learned has just become apart of my journey. I was once told to learn to be comfortable at being uncomfortable. The biggest risk I took was when I left my home of Grand Rapids, Michigan and moved to Los Angeles to pursue Directing/Content Creation. I had created a name for myself locally in the creative scene of my hometown and was also a news cameraman working at the local television station full-time. After almost four years of refining my skills in not only television, but also in the local scene I was faced with the biggest decision of my life. My dream was always to move to Los Angeles and at some point I had to make the leap. I had a great career at the tv station and consistent side work producing commercials, music videos, and content locally. Ultimately I chose to leave the comfort of my career in Grand Rapids knowing I would be moving with no security. This risk ended up being only the beginning of the blessing I live everyday as a creator in Los Angeles.

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.
I am the most proud of my journey of being someone from Michigan out here in Los Angeles. Everyday in this city is an opportunity, one that so many from where I am from strive for. I am constantly evolving creatively and finding ways to share my experiences with people back home who also share the same vision. The midwest molds strong-minded and motivated people. I take pride in my journey and helping others; it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles brings a lot of energy, you can feel it the minute you step foot out of LAX. I love taking my car out for a cruise to enjoy Los Angeles Forest or up to Malibu along the PCH. Malibu, Santa Monica, and Venice (Abbot Kinney) all have amazing spots to eat and drink with a vibe. I enjoy the simple beauty that Los Angeles has to offer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My journey just doesn’t exist without the amazing people that helped me along the way. From my amazing friends and family to the people of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Diane Kniowski, gave me my first opportunity in television when I was just a kid fresh out of high school. My whole tv family at the local station, WOOD TV8 (NBC) that all gave me the nudge I needed to move. The artists, promoters, and local talent that fed me knowledge and supported me on my journey as an aspiring director. Lastly, everyone in Los Angeles that continue to push me creatively and share the same vision I do.

Instagram: @thejsikk