Meet Kay Gutierrez

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kay Gutierrez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kay below.

Kay, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?

I grew up near the border of Mexico, where life was simple—but full. My grandfathers worked in the fields, my dad was a mechanic, my mom worked in the school district, and when everyone was busy, our grandmothers took care of us. That kind of upbringing gave me a strong foundation—one rooted in gratitude, hard work, and community.

When I graduated at 17, I moved to the Bay Area, then San Diego, and eventually Los Angeles, I realized just how many opportunities were out there. Each city introduced me to new people, new ideas, and entirely new ways of thinking. The further I stepped outside my comfort zone, the more I grew.

Taking risks didn’t always come naturally, but I’ve learned to lean into them. I remind myself: if the worst-case scenario is returning to a life filled with family, tradition, and love—then I don’t have much to lose. That mindset has given me the courage to try new things, speak up, and walk into rooms I never imagined myself in.

I believe I’m here for a reason—and I want to use every opportunity I’ve been given to create more access and open more doors, especially for the people back home. Taking risks is how I keep moving toward the life I’m meant to live.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m the Founder and CEO of REIN, a multi-division modeling and talent agency based in Los Angeles. Before launching REIN in 2023, I managed another agency in LA for nearly four years. During that time, I witnessed major gaps in the fashion and entertainment industries—especially when it came to fair pay, ethical contracts, and authentic representation.

As a multi-ethnic woman who was often the same age as the talent we were representing, I saw firsthand how discrimination and inequality affected creatives. That experience pushed me to create something better—something built on empathy, equity, and transparency.

REIN stands for Redefining the Industry. We represent models, creatives, and multi-hyphenates across fashion, entertainment, and production. Many of our talents are not just models—they’re also DJs, stylists, photographers, editors, and beyond. So we built REIN as a true one-stop platform where talent can thrive and brands can connect with creatives who do it all.

In addition to running REIN, I’m a licensed talent agent, casting director, and publicist. I’ve been hired to cast short films, source production teams, and help brands find their perfect fit models for size-scaling and e-commerce. My goal is to become one of the most sought-after casting directors on the West Coast, known for bridging fashion, film, and production with fresh, diverse, and professional talent.

Whether you’re looking for models, creators, or a curated team for your next campaign or production—REIN is here to help you build it from the ground up.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I’d say three qualities that have shaped my journey the most are empathy, adaptability, and industry knowledge—each one building on the other as I grew both personally and professionally.

Empathy came naturally to me, especially being someone who often related to the talent I worked with—not just in age, but in background. I could understand what it felt like to not be heard or fairly represented. That perspective helped me lead with compassion and create an agency culture rooted in advocacy and respect.

Adaptability became essential as I moved from my hometown to the Bay Area, then San Diego, and eventually Los Angeles. Each city brought its own energy, pace, and expectations. Learning to pivot, adjust, and stay grounded through all those transitions helped me show up confidently—even in unfamiliar spaces. That same skill is what now helps me juggle the many hats I wear at REIN.

And then there’s industry knowledge—the behind-the-scenes experience I gained from years of managing another agency before launching my own. That time taught me everything from contract negotiations to brand relations to production logistics. Knowing the business side of things gave me the confidence to challenge outdated systems and build something better.

For anyone just starting out: stay curious, stay flexible, and stay connected to your why. Learn as much as you can about your industry, but also take the time to understand people and yourself. Relationships, not just resumes, are what really move you forward.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

Yes, I’m always looking to connect and collaborate! For the agency, we are always casting models (men, women, and non-binary talent, sizes XS–3X) and creatives in the fashion and entertainment space. That includes stylists, photographers, DJs, MUA artists, and hair stylists who are looking for new opportunities and community.

I’m also open to collaborating with other talent agencies, production companies, or model management companies who are open to sharing a roster, cross-booking, or building partnerships that benefit both sides.

If you’re aligned with REIN’s mission of redefining the industry and creating space for diverse, multi-talented individuals—I’d love to hear from you!! The best way to reach out to me is at [email protected] or DM us at @reintalent .

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.reintalent.com
• Instagram: @reintalent
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rein-los-angeles?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
• Other: IG Threads @reintalent

Image Credits

Starline Tours for the photos on their website.