We had the good fortune of connecting with Cathy J. Hood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cathy J., how do you think about risk?

Taking risks is not always a bad idea. Usually, when there are risks, there are opportunities. You can’t expect to grow and elevate to the next level in your career without taking that giant leap of faith into the unknown. Having faith and confidence in the fact that you can do anything your heart desires is all that a risk-taker needs to be successful.

After graduating high school and losing my father, I decided to move to Los Angeles. I was 18 years old. I knew nothing about the city, nor did I have any friends or family living on the west coast at the time. All I had was a solid opportunity to attend a performing arts college in Hollywood. Everything else didn’t matter. I packed up my life in my car, had it shipped, and started a new life in a big city that was so foreign to me. It honestly was the best decision I’ve ever made.

The moral of the story is not to be afraid to leap into your true passion. To make that decision that has been lingering in your mind to do it. Do it for yourself. Do it for your heart. Be that risk-taker and reap up all the benefits you deserve. Turn risks into opportunities but always keep your eyes out for the potential threats.

What should our readers know about your business?

I currently run and operate a boutique public relations agency in Hollywood. We represent a diverse roster of clients in entertainment and politics. I created this agency because I wanted to connect people with opportunities and provide an avenue for them to share their stories to make an impact.

Pristine Initiative is a community-driven public relations agency on the mission to influence, engage, and identify opportunities for outlier markets. We don’t do PR for clout or to get a blue check on social media. We genuinely care about the longevity in positioning talent into thought leaders.

I noticed that in every position I carried in my career, I created the job description. I created a role that didn’t exist in the company. However, I struggled with working in corporate America because I refused to play the corporate game. I started to realize my success isn’t in corporate America. It’s in owning my own business and working on passionate projects to make an impact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would first take my best friend to some of the hottest rooftop restaurants and bars in Hollywood. For instance, Highlight Room and Mama Shelter are my favorite restaurants. The vibe, music, and the view is impeccable. If you’re looking for a Tulum-inspired setting, get a table at La Mesa. It’s a restaurant by day and a night club after dark.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve been fortunate to have many great mentors in my life! I can name so many! However, I must acknowledge my mother, Denise Hood, who has always had my back during the ups and downs throughout my life. I wouldn’t be in the position I am now if it wasn’t for my mom’s knowledge, encouragement, and support.

Website: www.pristineinitiative.com

Instagram: @cathyjhood

Linkedin: @cathyjhood

Twitter: @pr_initiative

Facebook: @cathyjhood

Image Credits
Kadeem Alexander

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