Meet Eric Dean | Marketing Mentor & Consultant

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

Hi Eric, what makes you happy? Why?
Community, outdoors, and the feeling of black joy and freedom.
Community brings inspiration, comfort, excitement, and peace. I moved to LA knowing maybe 3 people. Through engaging and having an overall lust for life, I now have a community of brilliant people in my life that build me up, challenge me when needed, inspire me to keep pursuing my goals and passions.. They’re a huge part of the reason I’m still living in LA. This city isn’t always easy to navigate but it helps when you have a good group of people in your life.
The outdoors was a huge part of the reason I moved to California. I’m a marathon runner, so I enjoy training outside. I enjoy hiking, bike riding and yoga. California allows you to engage in all those activities outside. This is something I do not take for granted. Outdoor activities brings me peace and joy.
The idea of black joy and freedom makes me happy. I’m originally from Detroit. A city that is unapologetically black. Because of this, I feel like it’s my duty to stand-in my culture and heritage. I operate in my blackness in a way that brings new perspective, free thought, inspiration and change. When I get to uplift and celebrate my cultures impact, I feel most joyful, like nothing can hold me or my people back.

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 work in a few different spaces. I’m a Creative Project Manager, Marketing Producer & Bartender.
I get to use both my creative and business minds. I work with creatives and developers to build out ideas and productions. I work with companies to discuss opportunities, partnerships, analytics, numbers and logistics. I’ve been able to work for brands like adidas, Live Nation, Spotify, Beachbody, American Express, etc. I’ve also started my own mobile bartending company, Spirits With Eric. I’ve lent and expended my skillset into the world of non-profit communications, experiential marketing, and UX/UI development. Marketing, Design, and Operations is where I do my best work. That encompasses a lot of skills and learnings. I’ve been apart of some cool digital, product, and D2C campaigns. I’ve had to do a lot of learning on the fly, but I’ve been able to excel because I always want to be successful in an endeavor I choose to be apart of.
One thing about me is that I’m direct and strong-willed, yet pleasant and easy-going. I don’t wear fear on my face even if i’m nervous. I have a can do attitude. I think that’s why I’ve been able to work in this city. The work ethic is there.
Fun Fact: A year into living in LA, while shopping at Ralphs, I had a conversation with Master P. He said as black people we have to work for everything we want in this city. Sometimes even taking on jobs no one wants. I took that to heart. Some of the best advice i’ve gotten.
Moving to a new city and pursuing a career in your field of expertise is always tough i’d say. I work in Marketing. Most times it feels like a competition. Everyone wants to get the best job with the best company. There’s at least 60 other people applying for the job you want. After 8 years of hustling in LA, I feel that my work and portfolio can speak for itself. I feel that i’ve established some great business relationships here. I find that people look out for me when opportunities that fit my skillset present themselves.
My story is that I’m a hard working Detroit native living in Inglewood with a diverse set of skills and a damn good wardrobe. Plus, I make amazing cocktails. I’m known in the north, south and the west for my good energy and good drinks.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So my mom came here for Christmas vacay. Here was out itinerary…
Friday – Manhattan Beach (Shopping/ Pier Walk/ Food)
Saturday- Gym, Hollywood Park Farmers Market (Inglewood), Citizens Public Market (Culver City), The Grove (LA), Chinatown Night Market (DTLA/ Chinatown), DJ Jam Session in Hollywood
Sunday – Church (Faithful Central Bible Church), Smorgasbord @ The Row DTLA + Bodega Store
Monday – Dinner in Inglewood, The Meeting Spot
Tuesday – Movie in Inglewood, Cinepolis.
Thursday – Tortugo Brewery (Inglewood), San Pedro (Nike Outlet & Tokyo Central)
Friday – Hollywood for Souvenirs, Chinese Theatre, KBBQ in Torrance
Saturday- Oceanside/ Old Town San Diego
Sunday – Brunch, Mexican Fruit Man, Waymo Ride (Self Driving Car), Venice Beach

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I have to shoutout my best friend for 18 years, Kanisha Williams, she’s the person that convinced me to visit, then move to LA. She’s seen me at every high and low point in my career and personal life. She’s definitely a motivating force for me.
Also, the running communities of LA. Those groups have helped me expand my network of good folks. Specifically, Koreatown Run Club and Mikkeller Run Club.

Website: https://theericfiles.com

Instagram: e.dean88

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/ericdean88