RESPECT.: Tell us how you grew up and what led you to become a Chef, Actor, Director, Producer, and CEO of your own magazine.

Just the creative side of me really. I’ve been cooking since i was 7 years old, always loved the art of acting and finally got into it in 2017. In 2016 I directed my first documentary “Classic Kutz”, and I’m currently working on a couple of content based projects.

When it comes to producing thats been something I’ve been expounding on since 2010 and I’m currently working on more musical works as we speak. I started the SOM brand in 2012 and it was always more so audio based, and digital. The added bonus of taking it to print for 4 years was just that, an added bonus.

RESPECT.: How did you make the two worlds of media and food connect?

By literally living it, from me being a professional private chef to being a media personality, it became my norm. If I’m not interviewing someone I’m cooking for them.

RESPECT.: Is there a place where people can find your recipes or watch cooking tutorials from you?

That’s finally coming in August. I have a lot of content I have been working on and can’t wait to share. So be on the lookout in the near future.

RESPECT.: We hear you also have a passion for music, what is your role when it comes to music?

Producing and Deejaying/Playlisting. I might of said some things on the mic back in the day too.

RESPECT.: What are some of the topics that people can find in your magazine?

Entertainment and Business all day. We love to feature new music and the up and coming. Entertainment in general and something involving business is very important to the SOM brand.

RESPECT.: What inspires you to keep going?

Really my daughters, and my own personal goals I set for myself from the short term to the long term.

RESPECT.: What advice do you have for anyone that wants to follow their dreams?

Don’t give up, be persistent, invest in yourself, keep your day job until its necessary to let it go. Not because you want to, but because you have no need to stay. Make sure you surround yourself with positive people, and energy, not yes men, but positive people. Also remember a part of success is failing, no one and nothing happens overnight.

To learn more about Rueben Wood follow him on Instagram @realruebenwood and visit his website http://ruebenwood.com.

The post RESPECT. Interview: Rueben Wood Discusses Chef Life & Media appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.