Meet Thomas Dean

We were lucky to catch up with Thomas Dean recently and have shared our conversation below.

Thomas, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I feel that imposter syndrome is something that every creative professional encounters at some point, and my journey has been no different. In the early days of my career as a wedding and corporate event DJ, I often found myself questioning whether I truly belonged in this industry. I would ask myself if I belonged amongst the industries’ elite, and was I worthy of servicing the most demanding and luxury events. There’s a unique pressure when you’re tasked with creating the soundtrack to someone’s most important day or when you’re responsible for setting the tone at a high-stakes corporate event.

My ah-ha moment came after a wedding where it felt like everything that could go wrong did go wrong—technical issues, a last-minute change in the schedule, and particularly frequent and spontaneous requests from the couple. I felt overwhelmed, and that ever self-critical voice in my head started to question whether I was cut out for this. While reflecting back, I could recall that as the night progressed, the very challenges I was facing were shaping me into the professional I aspired to be. I leaned into my instincts, adapted on the fly, and by the end of the night, the dance floor was packed, and the couple couldn’t have been happier. After some reflection I had a deeper understanding that pressure is a privilege.

That and other similar experiences have taught me that imposter syndrome is less about not being good enough and more about not recognizing your own growth. The fear of being uncomfortable often hinders our growth and the more I put myself in situations that challenged me, the more I saw those doubts as a sign that I was pushing my boundaries, learning, and evolving. I began to embrace imposter syndrome as a companion on my journey rather than an enemy. It’s a reminder that I’m constantly evolving and that each event I DJ is an opportunity to refine my craft, connect with people, and create unforgettable experiences.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As a DJ specializing in weddings and corporate events, my work is all about creating experiences that people will remember for a lifetime. It’s more than just playing music; it’s about gathering a deep understanding of how my client wants their event remembered, then applying that knowledge with a plan full of intent, reading the room, understanding the emotions of the moment, and crafting a journey that brings people together. Whether it’s the first dance at a wedding or the moment when a corporate team lets loose after a long day of meetings, I’m there to ensure the music enhances those special moments.

What excites me most is the power of music to transform an event. Just like the soundtrack compliments your favorite movie and places emphasis on key moments. There’s a unique magic in watching a crowd react to a perfectly timed song, seeing people who’ve never met before find common ground on the dance floor, or witnessing the sheer joy of a couple as they share their first dance as newlyweds. It’s those moments of connection and celebration that make what I do so special.

But beyond the music, what I strive to bring to every event is a sense of partnership and collaboration. I believe that every event is a reflection of the people at the heart of it, whether it’s a bride and groom or a company celebrating a milestone. My goal is to understand their vision and bring it to life in a way that feels authentic to them. It’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels included and where memories are made.

One thing I’d like people to know about my brand is that it’s built on passion and dedication. I’m not just there to play music and entertain; I’m there to help craft an experience. I’m constantly exploring new music, trends, and technologies to ensure that every event I DJ feels fresh and unique. But at the end of the day, it’s about the people—their stories, their celebrations, and their joy. That’s what drives me and what makes this work so incredibly fulfilling.

As far as what is new, well, I recently launched a YouTube channel and I am working on building a library of videos that 1) showcases what some of my events look like and 2) contains short educational videos for clients trying to fill in the musical blanks while planning an event.
I am also the Director of Programs; serving on the board for Phoenix WIPA
My YouTube channel can be found at https://youtube.com/@dj_thomas_dean_official
My website is https://elitemobileentertainmentllc.com
My Instagram is https://www.instagram.com/elitemobileentertainment
and My LinkedIn is https://www.linkedin.com/in/dj-thomas-dean/

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey as a DJ in the wedding and corporate event space, three key qualities stand out as being most impactful: adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Adaptability has been crucial. In this industry, no two events are the same. You might have everything planned out perfectly, but things can change in an instant—a sudden request from a bride, a technical hiccup, or an unexpected shift in the crowd’s energy. The ability to adapt, think on your feet, and keep the momentum going, no matter what happens, has been a defining part of my success. My advice to those just starting out is to embrace uncertainty and see it as an opportunity to grow. The more comfortable you become with the unexpected, the more confident and capable you’ll be in any situation.

Emotional intelligence is another quality that has been vital. As a DJ, you’re not just playing music; you’re tuning into the emotions and energy of the crowd, the couple, or the corporate team. It’s about understanding what people need at any given moment—whether that’s a song to lift their spirits, a beat to keep them dancing, or a quiet moment to catch their breath. Developing your ability to read people and respond to their needs will make you invaluable in any setting. For those early in their journey, I’d suggest honing this skill by being observant and empathetic in all your interactions. Listen more than you speak, and pay attention to the subtle cues that tell you how someone is feeling.

Finally, a commitment to continuous learning has been essential. The music and events industry is always evolving, with new trends, technologies, and styles emerging all the time. Staying ahead means constantly pushing yourself to learn and grow, whether that’s by exploring new genres of music, mastering the latest DJ software features, or understanding the cultural significance of different types of events. My advice is to never get too comfortable. Make a habit of seeking out new knowledge and challenging yourself to try new things. This not only keeps your work fresh and exciting but also ensures that you’re always offering something unique to your clients.

For anyone early in their journey, remember that these qualities—adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to learning—aren’t just skills you develop overnight. They’re cultivated through experience, reflection, and a genuine passion for what you do. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and always be open to growth.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

My journey has been shaped by the guidance and wisdom of several incredible individuals who have not only helped me overcome challenges but have also played a pivotal role in developing the skills, qualities, and knowledge that have been essential to my success.

DJs Brian B, Jason Jani, and Joe Bunn have been instrumental in my growth, both as a DJ and a business owner. Each of them brought a unique perspective to the table, whether it was mastering the craft of DJing, understanding the intricacies of running a business, or balancing creativity with professionalism. Their mentorship has been invaluable, teaching me everything from the technical aspects of DJing to the importance of building a brand that resonates with clients on a personal level.

On the other side, learning from planners like Andrea Eppolito, Melissa Fancy, and Paulina Corvi has been a game-changer in understanding how to be a great co-vendor during the most demanding events. They’ve taught me the importance of collaboration, communication, and the ability to anticipate the needs of others. Their insights have helped me refine my approach to each event, ensuring that I’m not just meeting but exceeding the expectations of everyone involved. It’s about being part of a team that works seamlessly together to create something extraordinary.

And then there’s Jessie Itzler, who imparted a philosophy that has been a guiding force in my career: the idea that my “brownie needed to be different.” In an industry where it can be easy to follow trends, Jessie taught me the value of standing out, of creating something unique that truly reflects who I am and what I bring to the table. His advice to create my own seat at the table, rather than waiting for an invitation, has empowered me to take ownership of my journey, to innovate, and to build something that’s authentically mine.

Each of these individuals along with a handful of others, have contributed to my journey in profound ways, and I’m grateful for the lessons they’ve taught me. For anyone looking to develop their own skills and overcome challenges, I’d say seek out mentors who inspire you, learn from those who complement your strengths, and never be afraid to carve your own path.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

elitemobileentertainmentllc.com

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
What would your closest friends say really matters to you?

If you asked your best friends what really drives you—what they think matters most in

Highlighter Series
When do you feel most at peace?

In a culture that often celebrates hustle and noise, peace can feel rare. Yet, peace

Highlighter Series
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?

Almost everything is multisided – including the occurrences that give us pain. So, we asked