We recently connected with Deborah Hayter and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Deborah, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.

In my role as a publicist, I have a unique opportunity to connect celebrities with causes that truly matter. I give my support to two organizations, Expose, a non profit that supports two schools in West Africa and Children Uniting Nations. Given celebrities immense platforms and influence, it’s crucial for those in the entertainment industry to use their voices to advocate for underserved communities. When celebrities speak out or contribute to these causes, their fans and the global community take notice, amplifying the message in ways that individual activists sometimes can’t. I love working on the two annual fundraisers that connect celebrities to the community.

Celebrities have a built-in network of support, and many people look up to them, which means their involvement can inspire real change. Their reach allows them to highlight issues like social justice, economic inequality, healthcare disparities, and environmental concerns in ways that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. The entertainment community is often seen as a beacon of possibility and creativity, and giving back is a way for them to reflect on the world that supports their success. It’s about using their visibility and influence for something greater than just entertainment—about leaving a positive, lasting legacy.

Deborah, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Deborah Hayter, affectionately known as the “Go-to Publicist” in Hollywood, California, has built an illustrious career in the entertainment industry spanning over two decades. Her journey from the trendy streets of Lincoln Park in Chicago to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and dedication to her craft.
Growing up in the vibrant neighborhood of Lincoln Park, Deborah developed a keen eye for art and culture, which eventually led her to pursue a degree in Art History. After completing her education, she embarked on an adventure across the pond to the United Kingdom, where she married and gained invaluable life experiences.
Deborah’s foray into the world of Public Relations began unexpectedly when she coordinated a campaign for a friend’s initiative called Caring for the Children and the Teddy Bear Project. The program’s international success, distributing Teddy Bears to children in need via Police and Fire Departments, ignited her passion for making a positive impact through publicity.
Upon returning to the United States and settling in Los Angeles, Deborah’s career soared as she joined DeLaurentiis Productions at Paramount Studios. As an in-house publicist in film and television, she worked alongside high-profile individuals and celebrities who used their platforms to support their causes. Her time at Paramount Studios honed her skills and paved the way for her entrepreneurial journey.
With a wealth of experience and a roster of esteemed clients, Deborah founded her boutique Public Relations firm, DHPR. She continues to secure talent for a number of charities and special events with celebrities who list in the who’s who of Hollywood, including icons such as Jeff Goldblum, Chaka Khan, Niecy Nash, Mike Tyson, Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Russell Simmons, Gloria Estefan, and many others. Under Deborah’s guidance, DHPR has become synonymous with excellence, integrity, and unparalleled success in the entertainment industry.
Deborah’s career as a publicist in film and television has taken her across the globe, from the bustling streets of Dubai to the picturesque landscapes of South Africa, West Africa, Australia, Japan, and China. Her international experiences have enriched her perspective and expanded her network, allowing her to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry with finesse and grace.
In addition to her work as a publicist, Deborah is a passionate advocate for sharing her knowledge and expertise with aspiring professionals through a series of lectures infused with humor, offering invaluable insights into how to thrive in the dynamic and often unpredictable world of entertainment.

Does your business have multiple or supplementary revenue streams (like a ATM machine at a barbershop, etc)?

Being a publicist offers a dynamic and fulfilling career that opens up many opportunities. One of the key benefits is the variety in revenue streams, allowing for both creative flexibility and financial stability.
Being involved in high-profile events has allowed me to create unforgettable experiences while networking with key industry players. Managing these events has brought prestige and excitement to my work.
Ensuring that celebrities or speakers are on schedule and meeting their commitments is a critical skill that has often led to long-term relationships with major clients.
Whether it’s for entertainment, beauty, fashion, or travel, writing has given me a platform to showcase skills. Attending concerts and other live events has provided me an opportunity to write reviews and keep me connected to the latest trends.
I’ve used my marketing skills to help clients leverage their appeal or trend analysis.
I’ve guided emerging talent through book promotions which has been deeply rewarding. Helping new voices gain exposure aligns with my mission of advocating for the underserved.
I’ve combined my love for writing with exploring new places which has allowed me to diversify my portfolio while indulging in personal interests.
The flexibility to work from anywhere has given me a significant advantage, enabling me to balance my professional and personal life efficiently.
I’ve had the opportunity to meet fascinating people, interview them, and immerse myself in an atmosphere of beauty, glamour, and fashion trends. This has level to a level of excitement to my daily work, and stay up to date with the latest in style and pop culture. The mix of creative work and the allure of the entertainment world makes for a vibrant and fast-paced environment that many dream of being part of.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

As a publicist, I’ve built my client base by embracing my authentic self and fostering genuine connections with people. I’ve always believed that everyone has an interesting story to tell, and one of the greatest joys in my career is being able to bring those stories to life. Whether they are unsung heroes, “should have been, could have been,” or current stars on the rise, each person I meet has dreams of success and takes immense pride in the work they do. Their stories are more than just narratives—they are driven by purpose, ambition, and heart.

This love for storytelling and deep human connection has helped me establish strong relationships with my clients. They know that I’m not just there to manage their public image or campaigns; I’m invested in their journey. In my role, I get to amplify the voices of those who might not otherwise be heard and share their experiences with the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://deborahhayter.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
• Youtube: https://www.facebook.com/