We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Steven Cuoco a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Steven, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
In the world of entrepreneurship, where running your own company is a delicate balancing act, the art of time management and choosing the right clients becomes paramount. Financial landscapes fluctuate, economies ebb and flow, and projects can be abruptly halted, leaving you grappling with the weight of bills to pay and a dedicated staff to support. Amidst these challenges, my foremost goal has always been to retain my team, avoiding the heart-wrenching task of downsizing.
It’s a remarkable realization that even individuals of substantial wealth often fail to comprehend the true value of another person’s time and expertise. The more money a person or company possesses, the more they attempt to persuade you to settle for less than you deserve. To safeguard my destiny, I remain steadfast and confident, refusing to relinquish control to others who seek to dictate my worth and constrain my potential.
There are moments when the struggle appears insurmountable, as if the intensity couldn’t possibly escalate further, only to be proven wrong. Ask any business owner if the path they tread is easier than a regular job, and they will attest to the arduous nature of entrepreneurship. It’s disheartening to observe how people become increasingly frugal as their wealth expands, their fear of losing it intensifying.
Prospecting becomes a way of life, with countless calls pouring in each week, yet acquiring a single client out of the multitude becomes the reality. I am not one to trap others in contracts, but I do expect individuals to honor their commitments and fulfill their contractual obligations. Unfortunately, I recently encountered a professional athlete who audaciously dictated terms to me, selectively adhering to the agreed-upon conditions. Such unprofessional behavior, though disheartening, is regrettably commonplace in the world of business, whether working for a company or as a self-made professional.
Despite these challenges, I persevere, driven by a belief in the value I bring to the table. I refuse to compromise my principles or allow others to undermine my self-worth. The journey is demanding, but it is also a testament to my commitment to what I believe in and standing strong to my morals, values, and beliefs.
Steven, 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?
As the visionary behind United Angels Dream-Your Second Opinion Resource Company 9Public Relations), EMAGE Magazine International, Power 98.5 Satellite Radio, and Model Me VIP, I have always believed in the power of taking risks. Throughout my career, I have worn many hats, from an award-winning public relations expert to an acclaimed radio host and media personality. My relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-study has been the driving force behind my success.
With over 30 years of experience in public relations, I have helped individuals and companies craft their image and message to the public. I take pride in creating meaningful, emotional, and engaging content that resonates with audiences on a profound level. The goal of United Angels Dream, LLC, my fully licensed and insured public relations, management, and media agency, has always been to be fair, honest, and innovative. Beyond my expertise in public relations, I am also an internationally bestselling author. My book, “Guided Transformation: Poems, Quotes, and Inspiration,” has touched the hearts of readers worldwide, offering them a source of inspiration and solace.
As a radio host, my shows “Live On Air with Steven Cuoco” and “In The Actors and Athletes Studio with Steven Cuoco and Jake Jensen” on Power 98.5 satellite radio and Apple Music streams allow me to delve into the lives and careers of some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports. Through these interviews, I offer listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the industry and the stories behind their favorite stars.
My diverse background and unique perspective have positioned me as a sought-after speaker and consultant. I am passionate about inspiring others through my writing, radio shows, and public speaking engagements. By sharing my insights and experiences, I aim to drive meaningful change and empower individuals to pursue their dreams. As I continue on this journey, I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and the impact I have been able to make. I remain committed to innovation, creating meaningful content, and inspiring others to embrace their true potential. Through my work, I strive to leave a lasting legacy and shape the future of the entertainment and sports industry and beyond.
In the end, it is not about the money we accumulate, but rather the legacy we leave behind and the lives we touch along the way. We must embrace the true value of intentionality and embark on a journey that transcends financial success, one that encompasses purpose, fulfillment, and the power to create meaningful change.
Have you ever had to pivot?
Six months before the pandemic struck, I experienced a strong intuition that it was time to embark on a new chapter in my career. With persistent encouragement from my peers in the entertainment industry, I finally decided to launch my own satellite radio station. My vision was clear – to create a platform that not only supported music artists worldwide but also provided a legitimate space for podcasters to grow and evolve as journalists and media personalities.
Unlike many other radio stations that often prioritize infomercial content over genuine music and radio experience, I was determined to go beyond the surface and delve into the legal intricacies of owning a station. I immersed myself in learning about intellectual property and copyright law, ensuring that I had a comprehensive understanding of the legal aspects of the business.
With years of experience as a public relations representative and radio show producer, I recognized the value of offering guidance and support to podcasters who were making a positive impact in the world. I wanted to bridge the gap between podcasting and traditional radio, providing podcasters with a legitimate platform to showcase their talents and grow their audience.
The journey towards owning a satellite radio station was not an easy one. It took me five years to feel emotionally, and mentally, and to be financially prepared for the responsibility that came with it. However, every step along the way has been worth it. Today, I not only run my own station but also consult with individuals who currently have podcasts, helping them transition into the realm of radio and broadcasting.
The satisfaction I derive from witnessing the growth and success of artists, podcasters, and media personalities is immeasurable. Being able to support and nurture their talent brings me immense joy and fulfillment. The decision to pivot my career and embark on this journey has not only opened new doors for me but has also provided a platform for others to shine and that’s what’s most important.
As I continue on this path, I am reminded that taking risks and embracing change can lead to remarkable outcomes. It is through the fusion of passion, expertise, and a genuine desire to make a difference that we can transform our careers and the lives of those we touch. In a world where podcasts and radio play significant roles in shaping our cultural landscape, I am proud to have embarked on this journey of career pivot, creating opportunities and nurturing talent in the realm of satellite radio and also continue to do what I am most passionate about and that is public relations.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
For over 30 years I have crafted a sterling reputation in the realm of public relations and media. My foundation rests the principles of honesty and integrity, eschewing the opportunistic exploits that plague the industry.
During the challenging days of the pandemic, a wave of individuals sought my counsel, their hearts burdened by disappointment and frustration. They had fallen prey to marketing and advertising agencies that reneged on their contractual commitments, leaving them bereft of results and financially depleted. Their stories, though disheartening, ignited a fervent determination within me to effect change to call out this injustice in a professional way.
One case, in particular, remains etched in my memory—a trusting individual who entrusted a staggering sum of over sixty thousand dollars to a marketing company. Alas, in return, nothing more than a rudimentary website template with generic visuals and hastily assembled videos were proffered. Another victim shared a similar narrative, having disbursed fifteen thousand dollars for a lackluster website and hollow social media presence for their jewelry enterprise. And then there was the music artist, cruelly deceived out of three hundred thousand dollars, her aspirations shattered as she resorted to a second mortgage on her home in pursuit of chart-topping success.
The magnitude of these injustices: the emotional, mental, professional, and financial toll they exacted, left me aghast. Building a reputation transcends mere self-promotion or ostentatious claims. It lies in being the antithesis of those who exploit the dreams and aspirations of the unsuspecting. It embodies authenticity, upholding the loftiest ethical standards. In a world marred by deceit, I strive to embody the epitome of integrity. I stand resolute to be different and not follow the crowd, hence is why my journey is not as traditional as most who copycat and live off the success of others, their parents, and hardworking original content by regurgitating it as their own. 
Contact Info:
- Website: StevenCuoco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevencuoco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unitedangelsdream/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencuoco/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/StevenCuoco
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StevenCuoco
- Other: Power985.com
Image Credits
Photos by Malachi Gabriel