Name: Cory “Sauce” Brown / @babysauce3
Talent: Actor, Model, Influencer
Occupation: Ex-professional Basketball Player - Global Basketball Legend / Media Mogul
Location: Based in Sydney, Australia (originally from the United States)
How long have you been a talent on TRF: 2 years and ½ (still counting!)
Introducing Cory "Sauce" Brown, the ex-professional basketball player turned global basketball legend and media mogul based in Sydney, Australia. In this exclusive feature, Cory takes us on a captivating journey, sharing his transition from the basketball court to the world of acting, modeling, and influencing. Discover the highs, the setbacks, and the secrets to his multifaceted success. Join us as we delve into Cory's world, where each day is a unique blend of business, entertainment, and self-care.
1. What inspired you to become an Actor, Model, Influencer and how did you get started in the industry?
It’s a funny story of how I got on the platform. A friend told me about it, and I was skeptical at first because I thought that, like a lot of other platforms, they undervalue talent and want to pay them at lower rates, knowing good and well with my credentials, as well as my peers, have worked hard to get to a high platform and still striving. After a while, I learned more about the platform and found out you can make your own rates, and my friend literally created my profile for me with my input, of course, and here we are now! I haven't regretted a day since.
On a different note, when I was playing pro Basketball, there was a year where I got injured really badly, and I was on my couch watching TV and said to myself, “That doesn’t look too hard!” (speaking about acting and reality TV), and since that moment, I worked hard networking and connecting with people while I had downtime from my injury, and over a little time, I got a call and got the blessing to collaborate and do a show with Kevin Hart. From that moment, I broke into the industry at this level, which led me to other great opportunities till this day, and I’ve been grateful to have this as part of my multifaceted talents.
2. Can you walk us through a typical day in your life as an Actor, Model, Influencer from start to finish?
Every day varies for me. I am fortunate to say I am my own boss owning a few businesses (youth Basketball academy, media/entertainment, and consulting for anyone who wants to get into either realms). So, a day for me could be anywhere from meetings, admin work, training and meeting with clients, my manager and I reaching out to new contacts creating new legendary opportunities, attending monumental events, doing auditions, and/or fulfilling a job that I got booked for, and working out twice a day to keep my mind, body, and soul at top shape. I still find time to take a grandpa nap so I don’t burn out.
3.Are you an Actor, Model, Influencer full-time/part-time, or casually? And how do you manage your finances and what strategies have you found most effective?
I am a full-time talent that is always looking for, or being a part of something new. My best advice for others is to use ALL of your talents wisely. Not only in this industry, but in others too. You never know how the workload will come, so when you stay ready, you never have to get ready. In addition, you have to have multiple streams of income if you want to be a millionaire (or more), so make sure that you give 150% to everything you do, but play chess not checkers and be ready in all cases.
4. What types of brand partnerships have you worked on in the past, and how do you decide which collaborations to take on as an Actor, Model, Influencer?
I have been blessed to work with a lot of sports brands and some luxury brands too. Thankfully, I have a versatile look that I can enter into different types of work depending on what the client is looking for. I decide on who I want to collaborate with by doing my research. I only want to work with people that match my morals and values, and have a good track record. Ultimately, your image is on the line when you work with someone, and you don’t want to tarnish your image especially in this industry where you can get blackballed.
5. Can you share any tips for negotiating rates with brands, and how do you determine your own value as an Actor, Model, Influencer?
Phewww, the list can go on and on haha, but with me, it all comes down to the credentials. You have to know your worth, and if the brand/clients can’t see that, then they are not for you. Just know another opportunity will come and don’t dwell on the one you didn’t get. If you know that you have a lot of experience in something then you can make the rate you deserve and STICK with it. When you downsize then people will see that and you will be known to stay in that bracket. But more advice for people that are just now breaking in, I would say see what the job is like (is it strenuous or more laid back), how long you are working, if you have to travel far, if there are recurring opportunities, and if the brand has money or not haha (do your research).
6. How do you stay updated with industry trends and best practices as an Actor, Model, Influencer, and what resources do you rely on for education and inspiration?
Honestly, The Right Fit helps when they post new articles, and social media is big during this day and age. I have some of my young whippersnappers help me stay up to date too if I miss something. Instagram and Youtube are big for me, and I read a lot of books that pertain to the industry as well as watch how big-name actors/actresses move, and other public figures in the industry too. If it works for them, then it can work for you!
7. Have you faced any challenges or setbacks in your career as an Actor, Model, Influencer, and how did you overcome them?
I think the biggest thing as a “talent” in this industry is to be adaptable and know that it is okay to say “no” when you need to. At the end of the day, the show has to go on, and there will be some challenges that people want you to do something, but you have the power to say no at the time. People hire you for your talents and anything outside of that is irrelevant. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you. I learned that over time when I used to say yes to everything, i.e., staying a little later without pay, accepting poor communication from the other party, not knowing my value, but now it’s way different and the outcomes are prosperous!
8. How do you achieve work-life balance as an Actor, Model, Influencer, even when life throws unexpected challenges your way?
Some personal things I do is that I meditate and I do things I love like going to the beach, hanging with peers, and being around just positive energy. What you put out is what you receive, so I want to make sure that everything I do is at a great level. I am a man of faith too, so that keeps me grounded and helps with the balance because I know more blessings will come in the future!
9. What advice would you give to aspiring talent who are starting out and looking to build a successful career in the industry?
The best advice I can give is to be a sponge and absorb as much knowledge as possible. There is always a learning opportunity whether that might be on set or on your gig, all the way to learning something on the internet or somewhere else, there is always something to better your craft. If you get that moment to meet somebody that has made a big stamp in the industry, ask questions and get advice! The more you learn, the more you can add that to your skills and excel in all facets.
10. How do you see the Actor, Model, Influencer industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and what changes do you anticipate?
I see the industry evolving in a great way. There are people coming out with new talents all the time as well as new technology being developed all the time too, so I feel like things are going to get easier, and there will be more opportunities for people to shine and show off their gifts.
11. Can you share any upcoming projects or partnerships that you're excited about, and how do you plan to continue growing your brand as an Actor, Model, Influencer?
I have a few BIG Basketball partnerships coming soon and some media opportunities coming early 2024. There is one thing I learned is that, I don’t have a “brand,” I have a “PURPOSE”!!! Brands can be bought, but a purpose lasts forever and inspires others. Can’t wait to bring more astronomical outcomes for all of us to enjoy!
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Cory’s remarkable journey, balancing the realms of Acting, Modeling & Influencing exemplifies the potential of dedication, authenticity, and adaptability. Their story encourages us to pursue our passions, maintain unwavering determination, and forge our own unique path.
