An Inspired Chat with Brandon Derrick

We recently had the chance to connect with Brandon Derrick and have shared our conversation below.

Brandon, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I felt true joy was probably my nephew Carter’s birthday. We live in different states but I sent him some gifts and had my sister facetime me when they arrived. Seeing the smile on his face, the way the gifts brings him joy and allows him to get further in to baseball which is a game we both love. At that time I had no worries, no other thoughts besides I’m so happy he is happy. He is a great kid.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Brandon “King Brando” Derrick I was born in Texas. I’m a photographer and entrepreneur. I have a clothing business that I’m currently rebranding, and focusing on building my photography portfolio. I first picked up a camera on my first tour in Afghanistan because I wanted to find the beauty in the world after seeing certain aspects of war. I feel my photography gives a different perspective and tells in depth stories. I try to translate this into my clothing brand as well. Recently I have picked up golf so I’m hoping to bring some golfing items to Straight6ix Merch. I’m also currently working with ProBaller Energy drink hoping to do more with them soon.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
For a very long time I felt I was limited because of my environment, I later found out that that is what made me who I am today. It made me work harder, challenged me to want more, taught me a lot of values and how to bring out my true potential without relying on any one else.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was a time I was doing a lot. I was working multiple jobs after the military and felt really lost trying to chase a dream and make a name for myself. I ran out of energy, it seemed like I couldn’t win. I changed my focus, instead of trying to please everyone else I started to focus on what made me happy. If you create for yourself and be free in your creativity then you will always win.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to hang on tightly to the belief that you had to be born with the talent. There are so many tools and resources out in the world that anyone who is willing to take the time to learn can learn and turn their dream into a reality.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in my library reading, taking care of my plants or researching new investments.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/straight6ixphotography?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Image Credits
Pictures by Straight6ix Photography