Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Forrest.
Hi Kevin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
When I first started my business, I did it out of necessity. I started my career in entertainment as a music producer, but it was challenging to be taken seriously by the media without having mainstream backing. It was hard to get interviews. When I first started my business, I did it out of necessity. I started my career in entertainment as a music producer, but it was challenging to be taken seriously by the media without having mainstream backing; it was hard to get interviews. I wanted to create a platform that could showcase Jacksonville’s talent. It started as a website, www.k4sent.com. After a successful launch, HFL Magazine was created as a tangible spinoff six months later.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
The road to entrepreneurship is never smooth. I created a physical publication when entertainment was transitioning to a mostly online platform. There was a constant battle to renew interest in a product that people were willing to pay for during a time when the internet provided information instantly and mostly at no cost. When you sell content, especially news and entertainment, you have to ensure you provide reasons for people to support. That balance between being relatable to build fan base consistency and uniqueness to maintain interest is a constant struggle in this print media landscape.
We’ve been impressed with HFL Magazine, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I think what separates us is how Hustler For Life Magazine can fuse both the independent and mainstream artists and entrepreneurs and present them in an equal way. Everyone in HFL has a story that matters. We don’t give a huge illusion of hierarchy in how we present. I think that helps us carve our lane.
Do you have any advice for those just starting?
When starting a business, it’s important to have a plan. Please write it down so you can fine-tune it and execute it successfully. A lot of times, businesses fail because individuals rush into an idea. It took me a year of research and constantly revising my business plan before I launched the first issue of HFL Magazine. Diligence has allowed me to be successful for over 10 years.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.k4sent.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k4s_ent/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/K4SEntertainment
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/k4s_ent
Image Credits
Photos with Corvette by: Thaddius Balom of Dominic Dionne Photos Photos on stairs by: Mannushkah Remy of M.A.R.’s Photography Accessories provided by Danielle Carroll and Tiffany D Ware
