Meet Korey West | Business Owner & Investor

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

Hi Korey, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I’ve always been a risk taker. However, I try to be strategic about it. It takes work to have multiple plans to backup the risk you’re willing to take. I feel like the most rewarding goals aren’t achieved without putting something on the line. In each of my businesses, I’ve had to make very important decisions not knowing the outcome. So far, the risk has paid off.

What should our readers know about your business?
Owning businesses is crazy! It’s that simple. You have to be persistent yet be able to change on a dime if needed.

Two examples:
1. In my audio production business, I was doing great but had to make a very hard decision. I also work for a church full time and I was recording artists that are great friends but the content didn’t agree with my lifestyle as a Christian. So I made the decision to only record non explicit music. It was hard to tell the friends I’ve made through this business I couldn’t record them any longer but I knew I had to. Immediately, I took an 80% drop in business but over the next year, I was given opportunities I didn’t think were possible.

2. My wife and I own real estate. We had a long term rental and the wonderful man living there had sadly passed away. About the same time, a friend had recommended doing an AirBnb. It turned out to be a challenging switch and a lot of lost sleep, but we’ll worth it.

I’ve learned it’s important to stick to your beliefs, no matter the risk. It makes you a stronger person and your business benefits. Really, that’s what defines my brand. I could tell you what I want you to think about my businesses but what matters is who I’m am as a person, how I make decisions and how I treat others. I’m more interested in what you say about my brand.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Kokomo, IN is a small town but it’s full of interesting and fun spots. I would certainly make sure to take them to see live music a few times at The Coterie. It’s a very unique place with great artists and the best burger you’ll ever eat. I have to make sure we get pizza from places like Pizza Co. and Oscars. We would have a high end dinner at The Marble, who I believe has the best steak I’ve ever eaten and that’s saying a lot. I would take them to a service at Abundant Life Church and introduce them to the wonderful people there. There’s so many great locally owned places in town! Also, since we’re within driving distance, we could spend a day in Indianapolis, Chicago or Cincinnati and explore the local spots there too.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First of all, God is attributed to my success. He has opened every door for me in my life. Next, is my wife. She trusts in me to take risks and gives me the confidence to make decisions in our business ventures. I also have to give a shout-out to DeRay. As I’ve grown through audio production, he, as a close friend and artist, has been essential in getting me where I am now. Last but not least, thank you to Dale Bliss for introducing me to real estate investing and teaching me everything I know about it. I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by such great people!

Instagram: korey__west

Facebook: thekoreywest

Image Credits
Jonathan Sims