Brian Gross, Founder of BSG Public Relations, has been in the service of media and public relations for over 23 years.
With an extensive experience working for companies such as Def American Recordings, Warner Brothers Records, Reprise Records, Elektra Entertainment Group, Vivid Entertainment Group, Brian’s background includes all facets of public and media relations.
Balance the Grind had the opportunity to talk to Brian about his career background, running his own PR firm, typical day in the life, recharging by working out and plenty more.
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1) To kick things off, could you tell us a little about your background and career?
I started as an intern at Def American my senior year in High School, working in the publicity department of the record label.
I went away to college for a year, and returned to take a job on the Lollapalooza Tour. From there I went to Warner Bros. Records, Reprise Records, Elektra Records, and then took the head of marketing and publicity job at the Vivid Entertainment Group.
In January 2001, I started my own PR firm, BSG Public Relations.
2) What is your current role and what does it entail on a day to day basis?
I run my own firm, where I handle a wide assortment of clientele that I do their public and media relations for. Day-to-day, our team are pitching media, coming up with ideas, writing materials, and on constant contact with our clients.
3) What does a typical day in the life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday?
I am a zero-inbox person, so the first thing I do is make sure any overnight emails are dealt with immediately.
From there I work on a list of needs, get press releases out, and begin to take on the daily task of any and everything thrown my way, whether it is from my clients, from media who are in need, and so on.
4) In between everything you do and all your responsibilities, how do you ensure you find some sort of balance in your life?
I’m not a believer in balance. I AM a believer in working hard, staying in good shape, and sacrificing aspects life for the betterment of career, personal health, and relationships. Life to me is not about balance as it is more about consistency.
5) What are some of the things you do to take time out and recharge?
Working out, which includes playing sports, yoga, bootcamp, running; some sort of physical activity every day, even if it means taking a nice long walk to clear my mind and get my legs moving. I believe in focus and self-motivation.
I have worked with some of the biggest celebrities in the world whose work ethic is off-the-charts. They have provided me insight into their success, which I do not take for granted.
6) Are there any gadgets, tools or products that you can’t live without?
Well, obviously my phone. That said, I love to be a minimalist. I can make do with whatever is in front of me; So outside of the essentials of a computer and a phone, everything else are gifts or additions to my life.
7) Do you have any books that you love and would like to recommend?
Every book Jon Krakauer has ever written.
8) What is the number one thing you do to make sure you get the most out of your day?
Put everything I have out there. Leave the day with a little exhaustion, a ton of humility, and the excitement for tomorrow.
