Kurt Slanaker
Kurt Slanaker
CREATIVE COLLABORATOR
New York/Los Angeles
www.kurtslanaker.com
www.eclecticdaze.com
Instagram @KurtSlanaker
Twitter @KurtSlanaker
What do you do?
“I am a collaborator of all creative sorts, constantly looking to connect brands & people with concepts & ideas through production in events & programming.”
I help with concept creation, development and coordination for brands and creatives alike. I am a community cultivator who brings brands and individuals together through projects, content development and partnerships. The primary goal is to build a community of creatives.
What steps did you take to get where you are now?
The approach I’ve taken to get where I currently am has been varied yet consistent, with one true underlying goal; to connect people. From traveling the world surfing to hosting events to writing & editing articles to curating membership at private clubs, the steps I’ve taken have all led me to developing a community of highly unique and creative individuals.
For other people in your field, what do they usually lack?
The worst thing that can happen by reaching out and asking is hearing ‘No’ as the answer. What I find is the most productive and crucial aspect of what I do is my candid ability of reaching out and asking.
What are you working on right now?
I’m currently working on developing sustainable projects that are long-term with a focus in events and initiatives in New York and Los Angeles. And in short, developing creative strategies with brands and their community.
We are all Slashies with multiple skills, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Writing. Every interaction and experience leads itself to being explored through storytelling, I wish I could write about that more.
What is frustrating you right now?
At the moment it’s finding balance, and being successful at balancing opportunities as they present themselves. I want be a part of everything all the time everywhere, so the balancing act is crucial to how I work.
What task keeps landing at the bottom of the To Do list?
Napping. In all honesty creating decks and detailed business plans for every idea that comes to mind or across my desk.
If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Research research research. Someone who can research brands and people, their history and projects both past and current, and then organize all of that data and information into a beautiful spreadsheet.
Do you have any mentors or peers? What do you chat about? How do they help you?
I’m lucky to have a great network dense in both mentors and peers. From casual chats to deep conversations surrounding personal development, every day is a chance to learn from each other and make rad things happen.
If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Business Development. Specifically how to analytically implement strategies based on real-time numbers and evaluations. And how to implement go-to-market strategies based on data surrounding that industry and market.
What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
The quick answer is content strategies and events/activations with brands and companies operating within the fashion, culinary, tech, travel and hospitality markets.
Examples of this is brands looking to either develop and introduce initiatives and products to their marketplace, whether new or established, or furthering their outreach within the community with unique concepts. Examples of this could be working with a startup fashion label looking to host original popups during Fashion Week, working with a travel app to develop a backstory and selling point for marketing through an event series, or partnering with the local craft beer community in a city to produce a series of events and activations promoting their brand.
What is your ideal client?
A brand and/or person who brings their aesthetic and personality to the table, but works with a collaborative mentality and who implements what they set to achieve in a timely manner.
Do you allow yourself to say No?
More so now than ever before, but I will always listen to an opportunity with an open mind.
What is your rate?
Based on the scope of the work or length of the retainer, but willing to be flexible on working within the budget.
How should someone approach you about working together?
Email me at hello@kurtslanaker.com, it’s how I operate.
The Tools
Interpersonal communication, Apple products, and a good sense of humor.
The Apps
Simple, Tumblr, Google Drive, Move Loot, Acorns, Instagram, VSCO, Hangouts, Solar.
The Audio
Grizzly Bear, LCD Soundsystem, The Arcs, Tame Impala, Chet Baker, Hanni El Khatib, The Black Angels, Cream, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Leon Bridges, 99% Invisible Podcast, 99U Podcast.
The Bookmarks
PeopleInTheirHomes.com; FreundeVonFreuden.com; CoolHunting.com; FiveOClock.Harrys.com; ManOfTheWorld.com; MrPorter.com, Kaufman-Mercantile.com; FourPins.com; ILOVECREATIVES.com; TheBureauBelfast.com; NeedSupply.com & plenty of photographers blogs/sites.
This member profile was originally published in September 2015.