We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Johnny La. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Johnny below.
Johnny, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
While I was in college, I took a drama class that changed my perspective. One day, after performing a heartfelt scene, I noticed some people in the audience were actually crying. That powerful reaction showed me the impact of storytelling and kindled a love for acting inside me. However, the real push to follow this dream came a bit later, in 2014. I was stuck in a routine office job, spending my days behind a computer, and I knew it wasn’t for me. I wanted more. So, with a blend of passion and a desire for change, I decided to fully embrace acting and moved to Los Angeles.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My entrepreneurial journey began back in high school, when I developed a passion for website design. That initial interest evolved over time, leading me to dive deeper into the dynamic world of digital marketing. I started my own agency back in 2017 called MRLA Media, offering SEO, social media ads, web design, and more. As the landscape of marketing shifted, especially with the emergence of influencer marketing, I spotted a unique opportunity. Leveraging my position as an actor in Hollywood, I began producing reels and collaborating with businesses for paid partnerships. It wasn’t just a promotional strategy; it was an intersection of my passion and profession. This collaboration not only gives businesses a chance to tap into my follower base but also allows me to broaden my horizons in the industry.
What sets me apart is this synergy between my roles. I’m not just an actor or a marketer; I bridge the gap between the two. This duality is my strength. By understanding both worlds, I offer businesses a unique perspective and approach to digital marketing.
I’m immensely proud of the authentic connections I’ve built over the years – both with my followers and with the businesses I’ve partnered with. If there’s one thing I’d like potential clients, fans, and followers to know about me, it’s that every project I undertake, every reel I produce, and every campaign I run is infused with passion, authenticity, and a commitment to mutual growth.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the essence of being an artist lies in the power of storytelling. Regardless of the medium – be it a commercial, a short film, reels, or a full-fledged movie – the opportunity to weave a narrative and share it with an audience is unparalleled. Every story has the potential to resonate, to evoke emotions, and to leave an indelible mark. And when I witness that connection, when I see my work touching the hearts and minds of those who engage with it, that’s the zenith of fulfillment for me. It’s not just about entertaining; it’s about creating an experience, a memory, a moment that lingers. That, to me, is the ultimate reward of being an artist.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In 2014, I made the bold move to leave my corporate job(s) in San Jose and head to Los Angeles to pursue acting. The initial journey wasn’t all glamour. From background acting to dog walking and Postmates deliveries, I hustled to make ends meet. But these experiences laid the groundwork for my entrepreneurial spark, leading me to establish my own digital marketing agency and delve into photography. This challenging pivot taught me the true meaning of resilience and the value of pursuing one’s passion, no matter the hurdles.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.johnnyla.com and https://www.mrla-media.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejohnnyla