Written by Tom Kelly
Growing up, Gabriel didn’t see himself as an entrepreneur. While some family members were starting small businesses, he was more into drawing and playing video games. However, as he continued his education, his interests evolved. In 2017, while he was in college, his sister introduced him to podcasts. He found shows like Tim Ferriss’s, which opened his eyes to personal growth and unconventional career paths, sparking his interest in entrepreneurship.
He was transitioning from studying Animation and 3D VFX at NMSU to Computer Science at UT El Paso, blending his creative and technical interests. This combination led him to join a high school friend in launching his creative agency in the summer of 2018. Through this venture, he connected with small businesses in his hometown of El Paso and eventually joined a marketing agency in Phoenix. While there, he worked on projects for Samsung and collaborated with MTV personalities on a supplement company’s social media campaign, reinforcing his passion for storytelling and creative media.
In 2022, he explored new avenues with a corporate role at Sprouts Farmers Market. While it was a valuable experience, it clarified that his true passion lay in media and entrepreneurship. Today, he channels that passion into Desert Forged Media, a company dedicated to bringing impactful storytelling to life. This journey of balancing creativity and business is ongoing, and he’s excited to see where it leads next.
What inspires you?
Tell us a little more about your current role with your organization and how it has impacted the start-up ecosystem here in the greater Phoenix region.
Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs and People Looking for their Passion
One important lesson I’ve learned is the significance of filtering the advice you receive. Surrounding yourself with individuals who embody the success you aspire to achieve is crucial. Seek opportunities to connect with those who are living the life you envision; their experiences and insights can be incredibly enlightening and serve as valuable guides on your journey.
It’s also vital to recognize that not all advice holds equal value. While many people may offer their opinions, it’s essential to prioritize insights from those who have demonstrated success in areas relevant to your goals.
Friends and family often provide advice out of genuine care, but their perspectives may not always align with your aspirations, especially if they lack experience in your field. While it’s important to acknowledge their support, seeking mentorship from those with proven expertise can significantly enhance your growth. Finding the right guidance empowers you to navigate challenges and align with your vision, ultimately helping you create the future you desire.
Most Impactful Book?
One of my most significant failures has been my reluctance to ask for help and my struggle with vulnerability. In my corporate roles and agency work, I often feared being labeled as incompetent if I didn’t know how to manage a project or tackle a technical task. This fear kept me from reaching out to others for assistance, even when I truly needed it.
I’ve come to realize that vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength that fosters collaboration and growth. Admitting when you need support not only helps you improve but also builds trust with your colleagues. It’s important to understand that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and seeking help is a crucial step in learning and developing. Embracing this lesson has made me more open to collaboration and has improved my overall work experience.