We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Ocampo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrea, how do you think about risk?
Looking back I can say taking risks has been the cornerstone of every decision I’ve taken especially in my career. I think for me it was important to identify what risk-taking was and how it was going to play out. In reality, we never know what the future holds but for me it was knowing how to pivot or not get derailed when the outcome wasn’t what I imagined. Having that mindset really helped me solidify my career as a successful sports broadcaster for 8+ years. When I started in the world of sports I took a huge risk by approaching the Florida Panthers to hire me as their arena host, although I didn’t know much about hockey. I knew in my heart that if they hired me I would do all the things I needed to do to become the best broadcaster the team has seen. At least that was my motivation. It was very ballsy because as a broadcaster you’re putting yourself out there and understanding the risk to be vulnerable for the world to see. But my passion was bigger than my fear. I was really lucky and knew that I had the work ethic to measure the risk and weigh the pros and cons to know that I had the opportunity on my side. It was one of the best decisions I made and one of the best jobs I had because it helped me hone my skills as an on-air talent and producer. The next chapter of my career was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken but the outcome wasn’t what I had expected and learned how to pivot real quick when I realized that it wasn’t what I wanted. I was hired by the WWE to be a broadcaster and learned really quickly that it wasn’t the place I wanted to be for a long period of time. I learned from my mistakes and learned some of my hardest career lessons. Although, it didn’t seem like I was headed in the right direction during that season of my life, little did I know I was preparing to launch my own media company. Three years later Thrown Media was born and I can only thank my ability to take risks. I always say, “Jump and the net will appear”!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m proud to say that I’ve been in the entertainment industry for 18+ years as an on-air talent and producer, which is an accomplishment by itself. Looking back I would say it wasn’t easy getting to where I am but I was doing what I love so you don’t really feel the tough times as bad…lol. I overcame my challenges by believing in myself first and foremost, and in knowing that I was the only one who was going to make the difference in my life and wanting to make my parents proud. It’s important to know how to pivot and be flexible when things don’t go according to plan. Being malleable was truly important when staying relevant in the industry or in life for that matter. I want people to know that anything is possible. You have to be willing to put in the work and treat others with kindness. I would have never received the cool opportunities if it wasn’t for people’s kindness to give me a little break here and there. I’m here to break the glass ceiling and I would suggest for people to keep an ear and eye out for Thrown Media!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to The New Yorker for drinks and to people watch. The Anderson for some mean tacos, drink,s, and dancing. Chica for fine dining. The Standard for the best sunsets and cocktails. Tayrona for brunch and music at my fav Colombian oasis.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate my shoutout to my business partner Lizzy Molina. We’ve built an amazing creative consulting Agency in Thrown Media with stellar clients that only people could dream of. I appreciate her every day and because of her, I am a better version of myself.

Website: www.thrownmedia.com

Instagram: @offficalandreaocampotv

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/andreaocampo/

Twitter: @andreaocampotv

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/TheAndieinmiami

Image Credits
Pics by Milad

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