Kellie and I became friends when we lived in the same dorm during our freshman year at Chapman University. After college, she left the entertainment industry and decided to start her own business! She is so inspiring, disciplined, and self-motivated and always gives her clients 110%. I’m so proud of Kellie and cannot wait to see where she goes!
Name: Kellie Daniel
Age: 23
Location: Pasadena, CA
Website: secondactmedia.me
Tell us a little bit about your business, Second Act Media, which launched in January 2020.
At Second Act Media, we specialize in assisting high profile brands and individuals looking to elevate their online presence. Through brand development, social media management, 1:1 coaching and more, we’ll help your business sail smoothly into its second act.
What inspired you to launch Second Act Media?
After facing harassment in my first job post-grad, I knew that working a typical 9-5 in a cubicle wasn’t for me. Life is truly too short to spend half of it crying in a supply closet, so I wanted to take matters into my own hands. I looked at the areas I’m skilled in, invested in some online classes, and took a huge risk at 22 years old. I never thought it would lead me to where I am today!
Are there any challenges you’ve encountered in building your business, and how have you overcome them?
I think the main challenge is learning when and how to say “no.” I don’t want to disappoint any of my clients, but I have to remember that I’m only one person and I can’t handle it all! It’s also very important for me to take time away from work and recharge instead of tirelessly going at it only to reach a burnout.
What do you do on a typical workday?
I actually start my work days early, funny enough! I’m typically out the door for a run to my favorite coffee shop, Jones Coffee, by 7:45/8am so I can start work around 8:30am. But if I have a particularly long night before that, I’ll let myself sleep in. Every day is truly different. Some days I can work only a few hours (answering emails, hopping on phone calls, etc.) and some I could work 12+ hours (editing content, shooting ads, etc.) But at the end of the day, I love what I do and I have such a joy each morning to get up and work!
What has your favorite client project been?
My favorite client project probably was creating ads for Kinder Beauty. My client was so impressed with my work that he wanted to have me make ads monthly!
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Has there been a moment when you felt successful and knew that all the work was worth it?
When I was approached by the Bucketlist Bombshells for a feature, I felt like all my hard work was worth it. I started off as a BB student, and to in less than a year be featured as a student spotlight was truly an incredible feeling. I had no idea the classes I came across through Instagram would lead me down the path I’m on!
When do you feel most creative?
I feel most creative when I’m in a coffee shop or coworking space! I like being around other people, but left alone to do my thing. I don’t know how to describe it, but I feel more in the zone there instead of in my room!
What people, businesses, or social media accounts inspire you?
For people, it would definitely be Rosemary Retro, Shannon Segall, @rosalierouge, and Claudia Gebhardt. These ladies are all in different niches, but they’re killing it! For businesses, I love how Mabel’s Labels and Fleur and Bee go about their socials. Not only do they deliver consistent content, but they’re phenomenal at community management.
What advice would you give other people who are just starting out in your industry?
Try not to compare yourself to others your age that seem more successful. First of all, everyone on social shows the highlights of their life, not the opposite. Half of the people that you see have “made 6 figures in a year” in their bios are full of it, so don’t pay attention to their success. Focus on yourself and how you can improve and I promise you, you’ll thank yourself for not spending time worrying about everyone else!
I see myself catering to high profile celebrities and/or individuals looking to elevate their social presence, brands, or businesses. I’m looking to expand my business, so maybe I’ll have a few more partners working with me. And I hope to launch a mentoring program to help other young women looking to gain experience in this field.
Oscars speech: Who would you like to thank for helping you get this far?
Of course, I’d like to thank my family and friends for believing in me during the lows and highs. But the one person I have to give the most credit to is Julie Kenney of Jewels and Pinstripes. She gave me my start and if it wasn’t for her, I would 100% not be where I am today. Thank you, Julie, for EVERYTHING!
Are there any other passion projects/side hustles you’re working on?
During this first year of my business, I simultaneously worked on a feature film called Deck the Balls! I spent many nights after work from 10pm-1am writing my feature and finished it just in time for the holidays. It’s on its way to being copyrighted as we speak!
What did you want to be when you grow up?
I wanted to be a comedian!
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
My guilty pleasure would definitely be watching Hallmark movies. I know they’re not Oscar-worthy, but something about them is just so comforting!
Dream Vacation?
GREECE! My business is themed after Mamma Mia, so it would be a dream to visit such an iconic location
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor?
Mint Chip
The Last TV Show You Binge-Watched?
Big Mouth S4
Favorite Podcast?
Sleepover Cinema!
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