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

Hi Matthew, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work-life balance has been a journey for me, constantly evolving as I’ve moved through different stages of life. Whether as a student, an employee, or an entrepreneur, I’ve learned that balance isn’t about giving equal time to everything—it’s about being present and intentional with the time I do have. I’ve come to understand the importance of prioritizing growth, self-care, career, and family while recognizing that time is finite—every hour, every moment counts, and we don’t get it back.
For me, balance is found in small yet meaningful moments. It’s taking a deep breath, pausing to appreciate where I am, and carving out time to rest—whether that’s a quick midday nap or simply stepping away from work to recharge. Mental health is something I hold close because our minds are the foundation of everything we do. Giving myself permission to relax, meditate, or simply embrace stillness has been life-changing.

I remind myself to live by a simple mantra:

Plans: Private
Moves: Silent
Circle: Small
Life: Peaceful
Prayers: Loud
Heart: Happy

These words keep me grounded, reminding me that balance isn’t about perfection but about peace and presence.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Moose.la is a Los Angeles-based micro-agency dedicated to helping small to medium-sized businesses thrive in the digital landscape. We offer a wide range of services, including website development on platforms like Shopify, WordPress, and Wix; SEO/SEM strategies; web design with wireframes; paid advertising; organic social media strategies; email marketing—from copywriting to design and deployment; branding guide decks; and CRO audits to optimize e-commerce businesses.
What sets Moose.la apart is our personalized, one-on-one approach. Unlike larger agencies that assign junior-level talent to clients while charging high retainers, we provide the expertise, attention, and care that small businesses truly deserve. With over a decade of experience and a marketing degree, Moose.la delivers trust, integrity, honesty, and, most importantly, results.

I’m genuinely excited to be in a position where I can help businesses grow online and share my knowledge. I’ve always known I wanted to help people, and being able to empower businesses while doing what I love gives my work deep meaning. Getting here hasn’t been easy. Following a path that wasn’t clearly laid out came with challenges, but I’ve learned that success isn’t linear—it’s about progress. If you’re willing to bet on yourself and trust your vision, you’ll win, even if failure is part of the journey.

When I started a local clothing brand, it didn’t work out—but that failure fueled my determination. I took my passion for art and turned it into something bigger, developing a love for web design and e-commerce. Along the way, I stayed curious, kept asking questions, and committed myself to continuous learning. In today’s ever-evolving world, adaptability is essential to staying ahead.

What I want people to know is that Moose.la isn’t just a business—it’s a part of me. Moose.la is Matthew Pineda, a kid from Boyle Heights who came from humble beginnings. I built my business from the ground up, fueled by hustle, determination, and a dream to one day give back to my community.
No matter where you come from, always stay true to yourself.

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?
Growing up in Los Angeles has given me a deep appreciation for the city’s rich diversity and culture. When friends visit from out of town, I don’t usually plan an itinerary—we just go with the flow. LA has so much to offer, from its distinct neighborhoods and incredible food to its scenic landscapes and vibrant energy; you just have to vibe with it.

That said, there are a few go-to spots east of DTLA that I always recommend:

Avenue 26 Tacos – The most authentic tacos you’ll find in LA.
Little Tokyo – Great shops and a must for ramen lovers, with gems like Daikokuya and Mr. Ramen.
Nick’s Cafe – A classic LA breakfast diner.
Pho 87 – Hands down the best pho in Chinatown.
Favorite Coffee Shops – Verve, Maru, and Stereoscope.
LA Historic Park – Perfect for a sunset picnic with a view of the DTLA skyline.
Olvera Street – A mix of history, culture, and architecture.
Dodger Stadium – World Series champs… enough said.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This question is always a tough one because so many people have played a role in my journey, and I want to acknowledge them all. First and foremost, I wouldn’t be where I am without the unwavering support of my family—they’ve been my foundation through every season of life. I’m also incredibly grateful for the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained from professors, coworkers, peers, and clients I’ve crossed paths with; each of them has taught me something valuable along the way.

Every day, I thank God for blessing me with both mental and physical health, allowing me to keep growing and showing up for myself and others. All of these people and experiences have shaped who I am today, and I’m deeply humbled and grateful for their impact.

Website: https://Moose.la

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moose.la/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moose-la

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.