On Profile: Deandré Upshaw

by | Professional Life

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A fellow Baylor alum, DeAndré (Sic ‘Em!) is everything a good Baylor Bear should be: a social media personality, a foodie, and a Beyoncé enthusiast. Most importantly, he uses his love of all three to tell other people’s stories in his own way.

Name of your business? Who is/are the mastermind behind your business? 

The State of Awesome. I’m the main mastermind behind this crazy scheme.

How did you start your company? What made you create The State of Awesome?
I’ve worked in web video production for the past 5 years, and I really wanted to create something that would allow me to bring something new to the table in terms of spotlighting business in the DFW area. I act as the host, producer, editor, sound guy – whatever needs to be done.

What’s one (of many) things do you want to accomplish (business or career and personal)?
My dream used to be to host 106 & Park, but nowadays I just want to tell people’s stories. That’s sort of the unifying theme of all the work I do – everyone has a story, lets figure out the best way to tell it.

What’s one mistake you’ve learned from?
Don’t undervalue your work. If someone cares enough to reach out to you to get something done, they should be willing to pay for it.

What’s the best advice you’ve gotten (business or personal)?
Invest in yourself, because no one else will.

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What’s one food you can eat for the rest of your life?
PIZZA. TIMES A MILLION.

You have to choose: living forever in sub-zero degree temperatures or blistering hot conditions (proper attire included).
Sub zero all the way. I despise being too hot.

Routine you have to complete every day/week (the more embarrassing the better)? 
I use Pharell’s beauty regime, which he learned from Naomi Campbell: Wash your face with cold water every morning, cleanse with Cetaphil. I moisturize everyday and exfoliate once a week. I’m not anal about it, but I do believe in taking care of my skin, mainly to balance out all of the horrible food I eat.

Current song you’re listening to?
Rocket by Beyoncé. Don’t hate.

Where can we find you online?
About DeAndré | Twitter | LinkedIn

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