We had the good fortune of connecting with Alice Radu and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alice, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I don’t think it’s whether or not to keep going or give up – it’s how much you’re willing to stay in your current situation until you’re ready to change it or walk away from it. You can keep going on something even though it doesn’t work for you or you can give up on something that you were more qualified to do than someone else. Also, your desires change. If you’re passionate about something and you feel it deep in your soul to pursue it then stick with it. If you’re involved in something that drains you, then you need to reflect on the thing you’re pursuing and ask yourself if it serves your purpose.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started a small brand called NBSAO – No Bullsh*t Art Only. This whole idea stemmed from having a terrible fall out with old friends and having a bunch of plain old BS around me. I was tired of the lies and the manipulation occurring in the music industry before I even had a proper start into music. So, my brand was born and it launched April 2020. I love what I have created because it’s a chance for artists and creatives like myself to be a part of a bigger collective with the same mentality. The reason why we pursue art in the first place is because we have the ability to express and create without fear of judgement or constant criticism. I started the brand with about $2,000 while working full time. I find the most difficult thing to this day with NBSAO is my ability to manage my time. I’m still getting the hang of learning how to divide my time between my full time job, music, my brand and a relationship. It’s not easy, however this is the first time in years I’ve began to work towards things I actually enjoy. Even though I just started my brand this year, I have dreams of being able to collaborate with bigger artists and have exclusive launches with them. I’m also really big on giving back to non-profits. Since launching, I’ve donated to about three different non-profits (such as NAMI which focuses on mental health). I think it’s important to give back and to help each other with spreading kindness!
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh man… I’m imagining covid doesn’t exist right now with this itinerary lol. On the weekends I grab coffee at Aroma Cafe in Studio City and then shop at the little shops right next door. Two of my favorite stores there are Muse House Retreat and Serendipity – they’re the cutest shops with all fun things. Nights out dancing are really fun at Exchange LA in downtown – or if you’re a day person, Academy does Day Trip on Sundays in the summer. If you’re feeling very fancy, a drink at Waldorf Astoria on the rooftop is amazing as well! I’m huge on nature so I love hiking by Griffith Observatory or having a beach day in Malibu.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m shouting out my partner in music and life, Shawn Mitiska! He has helped me grow so much in my confidence to pursue music on my own and learn vocal production. I also would have never launched my brand if it weren’t for his constant feedback and support. Also, I cannot forget one of my dearest friends, Paris Solati . She is my artistic and spiritual other half who just launched her artist series, SQR-ONE. She’s an incredible artist who inspires me to be my most authentic self every day. I would not have survived 2020 without these two!
Website: www.nbsao.com
Instagram: nbsaoapparel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbsao
Image Credits
Kimberly Mitiska Photography Mark Young Photography