Meet Don Belden

 

We recently connected with Don Belden and have shared our conversation below.

Don, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I’ve rarely found myself in rooms where everyone looks like me, but I’ve learned that having a solid strategy is crucial for success. Developing efficient habits allows me to complete tasks quicker and more effectively. My background in music, having been in bands on and off throughout my life, has taught me the importance of collaboration and adaptability.

Growing up, I was heavily involved in physical sports like soccer and hockey, which instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and teamwork. Additionally, my understanding of math has been incredibly beneficial. It helps me manage power consumption for various equipment and understand frequencies, which is essential in the entertainment industry.

By combining these diverse experiences and skills, I’ve been able to navigate and thrive in different environments, even when I may be the only one in the room who looks like me. My advice to others in similar situations is to develop strong strategies, leverage their unique experiences, and continuously build on their knowledge and skills to achieve success.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Kraken Entertainment is a business that reflects my lifelong passion for music and entertainment. With a background in bands and a deep connection to the music world, I wanted to create a platform that not only celebrates creativity but also brings people together through unforgettable experiences. Kraken Entertainment is about more than just events; it’s about creating moments that resonate.
Kraken Entertainment is the heart of our business, focusing on high-energy events that leave lasting impressions. From live shows and festivals to private gatherings, we specialize in delivering top-tier production value. Our approach is holistic, involving everything from stage design to sound engineering, ensuring that each event is a unique spectacle.
KEAR Media – The Promotional Arm:
Complementing Kraken Entertainment is KEAR Media, the promotional and marketing division of our business. Our slogan, “Empowering the Locals,” embodies our commitment to supporting and uplifting our community. KEAR Media operates a cutting-edge mobile media truck, fully equipped with a video wall, lights, fog machines, a full PA system, and video cameras. This allows us to bring the energy and excitement of live entertainment to almost any location, making our services incredibly versatile. Additionally, KEAR Media collaborates with other entrepreneurs, including talented videographers and photographers, to offer a comprehensive promotional package.
We are also deeply committed to supporting non-profits and community-driven initiatives. One of the partnerships we’re most excited about is with Desolation Vanguard, a non-profit organization whose innovative bio pump is poised to create a balanced ecosystem for farmers in dry states. This project aligns with our values of sustainability and community support, and we’re thrilled to be part of something that could have such a profound impact.
What sets Kraken Entertainment and KEAR Media apart is our ability to innovate and adapt. We’re not confined by traditional venues or conventional approaches. The combination of cutting-edge technology with a passion for entertainment allows us to create experiences that are not only unique but also deeply engaging and tailored to our audience.
We’re in an exciting phase of growth. KEAR Media is expanding its reach, working with more local businesses and venues, and developing new event formats that leverage our mobile media truck. We’re also planning a series of pop-up events in unconventional spaces, aiming to bring live entertainment to unexpected places. Additionally, our work with non-profits like Desolation Vanguard is opening new avenues for us to contribute to meaningful causes.
Kraken Entertainment and KEAR Media are more than just businesses; they’re about bringing people together through the power of live entertainment and innovative promotion. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built and excited about the future. Whether you’re a fan of live music, a business looking for unique promotional opportunities, or someone who values community-driven initiatives, Kraken Entertainment and KEAR Media have something special to offer.
Krakenentertainment.tv
kearmedia.com

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking Back:
Reflecting on my journey, there are three key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have been most impactful:
The entertainment industry is constantly evolving, and being able to pivot and adjust to new trends, technologies, and challenges has allowed me to stay relevant and successful. Whether it’s integrating new technology like our mobile media truck or shifting the focus of our events, adaptability has been a cornerstone of my journey.
For those early in their journey, I’d recommend embracing change rather than resisting it. Stay curious and open-minded, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The ability to adapt will set you apart in any industry.
Building and maintaining strong relationships have been instrumental. Collaborating with other entrepreneurs, like videographers and photographers, and partnering with non-profits like Desolation Vanguard, has not only expanded our offerings but also created a supportive community around our business.
Focus on building genuine connections with others in your industry, but be mindful of maintaining the value of your business. It’s important to recognize that running a business involves costs, and while collaboration is key, it shouldn’t come at the expense of your business’s sustainability. For example, we offer services like shirt printing for events or bands, which significantly helps fund our operations. Ensure that your collaborations are mutually beneficial and that your contributions are respected and valued. Attend events, join professional groups, and always be open to collaboration. Networking isn’t just about making contacts; it’s about creating mutually beneficial relationships that can help you grow both personally and professionally.
At the core of everything I’ve done is a deep passion for music and entertainment. This passion has driven me to keep going, even when faced with challenges. It’s what fuels my creativity and commitment to delivering the best possible experiences through Kraken Entertainment and KEAR Media.
Identify what truly excites you and let that passion drive your work. When you’re passionate about what you do, it shows in your efforts and the results you achieve. Passion can carry you through the tough times and make the successes even more rewarding.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Yes, Kraken Entertainment and KEAR Media are always open to partnering and collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations. We’re particularly interested in working with entrepreneurs in the creative and entertainment industries, such as videographers, photographers, event planners, and musicians. We believe that collaboration is a powerful tool for innovation, and we’re excited to connect with those who share our passion for creating impactful and memorable experiences.
We’re also eager to collaborate with non-profits and community-focused organizations that align with our values, especially those working on projects related to sustainability, like Desolation Vanguard. By partnering with others, we can amplify our efforts and make a more significant impact together.
How to Connect:
If you’re interested in collaborating with Kraken Entertainment or KEAR Media, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach out to us through our website kearmedia.com, or connect with us on social media https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086525681473. We’re always open to new ideas and opportunities, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re passionate about what you do and believe we can create something amazing together.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

these are all my pics

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