There are so many ways to describe Joel Nunez, including his methods, motivations, and achievements.
In 2018, the 28-year-old, Manhattan-based, Creativepreneur launched BookNunez, a consulting agency specializing in creative direction, video production, and events. He goes all in, whether working with local ‘mom and pop’ shops or name brands like Chase, House of Creed, Heinz, Nordstrom, Max Factor X, Forbes, and more.
Nunez also supports organizations and causes near and dear to his heart. Earlier this year, Joel produced a Suicide Prevention Month Public Service Announcement for the national 988 Lifeline, a suicide prevention network founded by the government agency Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
“Throughout my life, I’ve overcome numerous obstacles. As an immigrant, becoming fluent in English and assimilating to a new society were some of the most difficult challenges I faced. My parents were also learning and assimilating to this new world, so I never had much guidance growing up. I believe it eventually turned out to be a superpower for me because, due to a lack of guidance, I was out there figuring things out on my own. As a result of my upbringing, I’ve failed numerous times, but I’m tenacious and a force to be reckoned with,” he said.
What is your personal guiding principle?
Do right by people because you get what you give. Move with purpose. Don’t half-ass things. Get it done!
Tell us about your first job
My first job was as an ocean lifeguard on Long Island. The funny story behind this is that I didn’t know how to properly swim when I first applied, which was obviously required to pass the lifeguard test. It took some training but I got the job.
What is your drink of choice?
I like whiskey and ginger ale or Pellegrino.
Suggest a film that everyone should see
King Richard. I was tearing up watching that movie on a flight home recently. Amazing!
Are you an early riser or a night owl?
I am a little bit of both. The excitement from upcoming projects keeps me up sometimes or wakes me up early to start executing. I recognize this isn’t healthy…
Which app do you believe more people should use?
My Notes App is fully utilized. My entire life is in my Notes app.
What is your greatest fear?
Being betrayed by someone I value and love.
Where did you go the last time you took the subway?
The last time I took the subway, we went to a Mets game.
Describe your typical Sunday
No day is typical for me. Every day is a workday. Sundays are a little different in the sense that I try to spend time with family if I can, but if I can’t, then I just rest in the morning and work in the late afternoon to get ready for the week ahead.
What is one song that you know every word to?
“I Like It” by Cardi B, J Balvin, and Bad Bunny. Shoutout, Latino Gang!
Best childhood memory?
My best childhood memory was during a football game. I made an insane catch in the end zone, keeping two feet in bounds by centimeters, and everyone went insane. The ref said after the game that he had never seen a more impressive touchdown at that level before.
What is your favorite scent of all time?
I recently did a commercial for House of Creed, and before this shoot, I actually hated cologne. Now all I wear is Creed.
What is your signature catchphrase?
“Let’s make it happen”
Favorite pair of kicks?
I love my Travis Scotts! I can style those with anything.
What is the best and worst piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Best career advice: Do right by people and be reliable. Everything else can be learned.
Worst advice: Do something that makes you a lot of money. That advice almost took me on a completely different career path – investment banking. I believe that if you can provide value for people, you can make unlimited money.
How do you keep yourself motivated throughout the day?
Keeping me motivated is not an issue. I enjoy what I do, so I just get up every day and have fun.
What would you change if you could change one thing with the snap of a finger?
The feeling of exclusion would disappear for all the immigrant children trying to figure out their way through a new world.
What is one food item that you could live off of for the rest of your life?
Plantains or bananas. You can have it for every meal of the day by cooking it differently.
Where do you go when you need some alone time?
Every year for my birthday, I take a solo trip somewhere different. I leave everything and everyone behind to reflect and indulge in new cultures.
What was the most thoughtful gift you received?
The most meaningful gift I have received in this life is support from my mother. Her support is probably why I wasn’t broken as a child and persevered through the many challenges I faced.
Restart your life as a 15-year-old with all of your current knowledge, or skip ahead 10 years?
I would go back to 15 years to do it all again and use the knowledge I have now as the guidance I never had growing up.
A staple and house name in NYC’s art, music, fashion, and hoop scenes, Joel spends half of his time where the most interesting things are happening. And the other half? He’s the one putting everything together. People can follow Joel Nunez’s creative journey and life adventures on his Instagram, @joelnunez.
