If you’re familiar with the work of HELLER PR, INC., then you know that they have a favourable reputation among high profile actors and celebrities. But to understand how HELLER PR INC took shape, you need to know the story of the man behind the operation. Josh Heller tells us about his journey from humble beginnings to the owner of a leading PR firm.
New York born Heller was raised in Los Angeles in a low-income family. His childhood experiences with government-subsidised housing and food assistance led to an advanced sense of social awareness, even at a young age. In his youth, Heller also struggled with anxiety and depression. He soon found that creative outlets were a valuable resource for boosting his state of mind. “Economic struggles, compounded by anxiety and depression, can make you feel as though you have no options,” said Heller. “Artistic expression re-opens some of those doors. As I entered adulthood, I knew I wanted to make a difference for others. And art felt like the right way to do it.”
After high school Heller received a scholarship to the University of Southern California where he studied entertainment public relations and journalism. During college he worked at film studios including Paramount and Disney. After graduation, he directly entered the workforce, representing A-list celebrities and publicising films for studios like Sony and HBO. After years behind a desk, he felt the urge to pivot and explore his artistic talents. In his early twenties, Heller left PR and entered the world of professional acting and photography.
“Probably my favourite highlight has been dancing in Pharrell’s Happy music video,” said Heller. While he aced in acting and photography, Heller felt the need to return to PR. This time, photography was a part of the services he provided to his clients. According to Heller, photography tells a story, and so does public relations. Heller says that if you want to grow in the public relations business, it is imperative to know the kind of a story you want to tell. A naturally talented photographer and PR expert, Heller started attracting clients like Kylie and Kendall Jenner. “They photograph so well, and they simply let me be creative with the shots,” said Heller. Before long, HELLER PR, INC. was born, and thriving.
But Heller has other projects in the works as well. Just this year, he and a friend started a non-profit called Favored Nations, a brand that works with celebrities and influencers to promote youth engagement in politics, equal rights for all, and a general sense of empathy. Since its founding, Favored Nations has raised over $150,000 for causes like Black Lives Matter and COVID-19 relief.
“No matter what I’m working on, I just want to make a positive impact on the world,” said Heller. “For me, art has always been the fuel that keeps it going.”