We had the good fortune of connecting with Vishal Munsif, a very talented storyteller and creative. We’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Vishal, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Independence and Responsibility. There is no price on independence – “Independence of Mind” and “Independence in Fact..” As an entrepreneur you are responsible for your actions and yet you are answerable to no one. I want to run my business the way I want it. My decisions are charity driven. I am a capitalist with a socialist mindset. A conundrum for sure. But I felt, I could not achieve my goals working for someone. Hence, owning a business was my only option. And I am glad I picked the right option.
That’s very interesting and I think a lot of folks can relate with having an appreciation for what capitalism allows them to do even though their objectives are deeply empathic and community-oriented. So, maybe you can give our readers an introduction to your business? We’d love for you to share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We started out as a local, Los Angeles based media firm. Our goals were modest and still are, but over the past 1 year, we have expended Internationally. We have, under a different banner (Redfin Media), have entered the Bollywood market. We are currently working on multiple projects in India – shows, movies, documentaries, music and marketing. I am grateful for my team here and in India for making this happen. It has taken countless hours and months of sleepless nights to get this business running. In fact, I was put on complete bedrest for 2 weeks due to exhaustion. But, in the end it is all worth it. This is a difficult undertaking. We are getting there. With COVID and global lockdowns, things have been slow, but we were able to meet and talk to some major players in Bollywood. Video conferencing really helps. My team in India has been amazing and I am grateful to work with such “go-getters..”
A big lesson here is – “Nothing is easy”
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?
I’m taking them to Malibu. The movies have made Malibu such a legendary spot, nationally and internationally. The beaches, the people, endless water and open skies. There is a vibe like no other. For me LA is all about food trucks. There are so many places to eat, but street food is to die for. A taco truck with soft street tacos hits the spot every time. Pinks Hotdogs is another must try. Places to see – walk of fame, Griffith Observatory, museums, Disney and Paramount. There are bars Habana and Ercoles 1101 in Manhattan that have the right energy to keep you going for hours. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes. There are many. In life there are those that come and propel you in the right direction without asking for anything in return. I have been fortunate. There are two specific groups – Internal and External
Internal
My wife, Dr. Meghna Singhvi, has been my pillar. I am not an easy person to handle, but she knows the right balance to keep me grounded. My parents and my brother have been extremely supportive in whatever I have done.
External
Keri Selig, a multi-Emmy nominated producer, has been extremely important in my life. She is a name to reckon with and I am so grateful to her for always being there and guiding me.
Website: www.tdrla.com and www.redfinmedia.in