Meet Austun Reid | Content Creator & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Austun, how do you think about risk?
How do I think about risk…that is a very interesting question I think that for me I thrive on risk. I’m a huge believer in “Go big or go home” and I feel like you have one life to live so why not bet on your dreams and take the risk? Regardless of what the outcome may be, you will learn SOMETHING from that risk you have taken. During the duration of my 23 years on this earth I have taken so many risks some good, and some not the BEST but in the end, they all have led me to where I am today and I have learned so much from each experience.

Risk has played a huge part in my career. Back in 2020, Hollywood producer DeVon Franklin came to my college to speak with some of the students and it was my dream to gain an internship with him, so as scared as I was, I put myself out there introduced myself, told him my aspirations, and risked rejection from him, but a few months later I was hired as his Lead Digital Intern and was with his company, “Franklin Entertainment” for a year and a half gaining as much experience in Hollywood as I could.

Another huge risk took was in December of 2022. I took a huge risk and packed up my entire life and moved out to Los Angeles with no apartment, no official job & $2000 in my bank account. I was TERRIFIED, living on a family friend’s couch who lived about an hour away from LA WITHOUT traffic, and I just remember driving back and forth to LA every day filling up my tank twice a week, just trying to gain connections and follow my dreams of working in Hollywood. A month later I was in my very apartment, with my dream job working on a TV Show with a few of the biggest names in Hollywood. Additionally, I was able to soft launch my talent management agency and start helping budding talent within the industry. Without risk, there is not reward, and if I didn’t risk moving out to LA I would not be living my dreams.

This is just the beginning and there indeed is more that I want to do, and I have big goals, dreams, and bugger risks to take.

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.
Here’s your revised text with grammar and wording improvements:

“What sets me apart from others is my resilience and refusal to accept ‘no’ for an answer. I live by the words of Kris Jenner, who once said, ‘If someone says no, you’re asking the wrong person,’ and I take that sentiment to heart. Whenever I seek an opportunity, I keep this principle in mind because I genuinely don’t accept ‘no’ as an answer. Therefore, I believe that my resilience and ability to persevere in challenging situations define me.

I often recount a story that makes me particularly proud. It’s the journey I undertook to make it to Los Angeles. Many people talk about coming here but are often too apprehensive or self-doubting to seize the opportunity. Despite the difficulty and fear associated with my move, I consider this achievement my proudest moment. I’m excited to be in a position where I can pursue my dream of breaking into the industry, and I’m particularly enthusiastic about my ongoing career growth and the connections I’ll continue to make with remarkable individuals.

My professional journey has largely been shaped by networking. I first entered the entertainment industry in 2020 when I was selected as the lead digital intern for producer and author DeVon Franklin’s production company, Franklin Entertainment. I spent approximately a year and a half there before transitioning to work for a digital marketing firm called ‘Kona Rise Digital,’ founded by my colleague, Rebecca Patterson. All the while, I was planning to launch my own Talent Management Agency & Digital Marketing Firm. In May 2022, I graduated from Oakwood University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. During the summer following my graduation, I continued to work on my business, expand my network, and take steps toward relocating to LA.

On December 28, 2022, I made the leap to Los Angeles and secured a position as a Writer’s Production Assistant on an upcoming series produced by some prominent figures in Hollywood. This journey has been far from easy, but I’ve managed to overcome numerous challenges. I remain committed to my ultimate goal, knowing that the only person who can truly hinder my progress is myself. Like everyone else, I have my share of tough days and obstacles, but I view them as opportunities for growth and learning. In LA, it’s often a make-or-break situation, and I am determined to make it. When I set my mind on something, I make it happen.

What I want the world to know about me is that they should get used to seeing this face because I’m JUST GETTING STARTED.”

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?
Honestly, being new to the city, I am still trying to get accustomed to everything. But, I am a huge outdoorsy person, and one of my favorite hiking trails is Runyon Cannon Park. It overlooks all of LA, and you get a truly breathtaking view of the iconic Hollywood Sign!

I also have a deep appreciation for food, and some of my favorite spots include “Fixins,” a fire Black-owned southern-inspired restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Another gem is “BluqHaus,” a fantastic brunch spot in North Hollywood, also proudly Black-owned, serving up some dope southern cuisine.

And of course, no visit to LA would be complete without a trip to the beach, where the sun, sand, and surf beckon. Additionally, I’m always up for experiencing LA’s vibrant day party scene. Whether it’s “Everyday People,” “Familiar Faces,” “Nside Voices,” or any of the other amazing events happening each week, I’m ready to groove and make unforgettable memories.

So, let’s explore this city together, taking in the breathtaking scenery, savoring delicious meals, and dancing our way through LA’s lively day parties. It’s going to be an unforgettable adventure!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my journey through Hollywood, there have been countless individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping my career and my life. To all of them, I want to shout out my heartfelt gratitude.

First and foremost, I must thank God. I would not be where I am today without His divine guidance and blessings. I am endlessly grateful for His presence in my life.

My parents, family, and friends deserve a special shoutout for their unwavering support. They have been my pillars of strength, always there for me to lean on during the ups and downs of this unpredictable industry.

DeVon Franklin and the entire Franklin Entertainment Team hold a special place in my heart. They gave me my first chance in Hollywood, and I will forever be grateful to them for the invaluable lessons and opportunities they provided.

Anthony Oneal, thank you for believing in me and allowing me to be a part of your team. Your trust in my abilities has been a driving force in my career.

Rebecca Patterson, your faith in me and the opportunity to join your growing team have been instrumental in my growth.

To the entire “Sweet Life: Los Angeles” crew, you’ve become my little “LA Family.” Tylynn, Amanda, Jay, Rebecca, Bri, and everyone else in the crew, thank you for embracing me and making my LA experience so unforgettable.

To the NBCUniversal writer’s room team, I extend my appreciation for the incredible projects we’ve collaborated on. Your creativity and dedication have enriched my journey in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

There are countless others who have been a part of my story, and I am deeply grateful to each and every one of you. Together, we’ve woven a tapestry of experiences, growth, and success that I will carry with me always. Thank you for being a part of my remarkable journey.

Website: https://www.austunreid.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amor_aus/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austun-reid-64ba65173/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0InG5tLcTIv2Oamq7ZsOaw