Meet Justin Slater | Content Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Slater and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Justin, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk is present in any career choice but especially within the industry I am apart of. The risks we take as content creators might seem fairly light and as though there’s not too much thought put into it. However, the backside of social media is all risk. I’ve been actively doing content creation for going on 8 years and I am still learning new things daily that help me progress when it comes to editing, connecting with my audience, algorithm changes and so much more. The risks that I take come into play when we look at types of content and brands to work with. In my life, risks are a common occurrence. I’ve told myself from the beginning “no struggle, no progress” because from the start I struggled with a lot of aspects in life financially, mentally and physically. Early on in my career, I decided to take the risk to leave home, couch surf, sleep in my car, not know where my next meal or water is coming from, in hopes to find success not only within my career but in my life. This was my rock bottom. But I have always told myself that you have to hit rock bottom, because the only place to go is up from there.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I try and set myself apart in many ways but one in particular is trying to be the most authentic person I can be both in life and on social media. Today, I sit at over 800,000 supporters and I’m so grateful that I have been given this opportunity, and trust me I don’t take it for granted. I always knew I wanted to do social media and be a content creator. Granted, my content has continued to change over time starting with reaction videos at the kitchen table with my mom, and now interviewing strangers and giving them gifts. As with anything in life, you never know what’s coming. So what I’ve learned through social media is to try your best to progress as a person as well as in your career, don’t stay content and keep pushing for the next best version of yourself. I grew up in Bakersfield, California where if you had a dream to become a content creator, you’re looked at like you’re crazy; and maybe I was. But, I knew if I put all my effort into it, took some risks, and stayed focused, I could achieve this goal.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s so many places in my city that I have come to love and adore. Ideally, I’d start with some snowboarding up in Flagstaff, AZ at Snowbowl, get some food at Bar Louie (those chicken nachos are to die for) then hit the town and go to a fun bar with a pool table like Boondocks in Tempe. At night, I love to “hike” to the top of “A” mountain in Tempe right off of Mill Ave. to see the city lights. Puttshack and Top Golf of course are a staple, and maybe we’re feeling a spark of luck so we’ll hit the casino.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I could name dozens of people that throughout my career have helped or inspired me in some way. Year after year I have continually met amazing people that have gone from acquaintances to family. These people have helped me, supported me and carried me through the lows in life. People from the start of everything that I’d like to recognize are Joel Kamakani, Patrick Minor, Dakota Miller and Tyler Chaffin as well as all of their families. These individuals helped me stay motivated and focused so I could have the opportunity to grow to where I am now. Of course the unwavering support from my family has been impactful and has guided me to make some of the best decisions of my life.
Instagram: instagram.com/justinbslater
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.slater.50596?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@justinslater?si=mYEBrOHHJKH17MUT
Other: https://t.snapchat.com/eAlP1d1u