Meet Kevin Tran | CEO & Coach

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

Hi Kevin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
For me, it was about choosing action over hesitation. I realized that if I waited for the “perfect” time, it might never come. So I decided to take the leap, even if I didn’t have everything figured out. Along the way, I experimented with different ideas, some succeeded, some failed, but every step moved me closer to my purpose. Every step became a lesson that shaped me. Even the setbacks held value, bringing me closer to my purpose.

I’ve come to believe the journey is just as important as the destination. Every challenge, pivot, and small win creates momentum. I told myself early on: as long as I don’t quit, I’ll keep moving forward. That mindset has been the foundation of everything I do.

I also realized not every piece of advice is worth following. People sometimes speak from fear or limitation, and if you absorb that, you risk shrinking your own vision. Instead, I learned to filter the noise and trust my path.

Most importantly, I’ve learned that success is never a solo act. There’s a quote I live by:
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Surrounding myself with the right people has been key. And now, I try to be that person for others, to show the younger generation that they don’t have to wait for permission to chase their dreams. If you take action, stay authentic, and build the right community, anything is possible. Do what you love, build with the right people, and always be you.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My story starts with discipline and culture. College at San Diego State University, is where I navigated the ups and downs of being a first-generation college student. I changed my major multiple times and even stepped away before returning to finish, and that uncertainty was necessary. At the time, those shifts felt uncertain, but they were actually pivotal. They gave me the space to explore, reflect, and ultimately discover what I truly wanted out of life and my career.

That journey taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of staying ada[table. It also reminded me that your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be successful, it just has to be authentically you.

Along the way, I discovered my passion in coaching, consulting, and jewelry. On the surface, they may seem like very different fields, but they all connect back to what drives me most: people, culture, and creativity. These ventures allowed me to use strategy and innovation while honoring my roots and community.

Of course, the road wasn’t easy. There were setbacks, doubts, and failures along the way, but I came to see each of those as a stepping stone. It ultimately sharpened my vision and taught me to surround myself with people who truly uplift and support me.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned are sim[;e but powerful:

Take action even when timing isn;’t perfect
See failures as growth, not defeat
Stay disciplined and consistent
And always enjoy the journey

What sets me apart is my willingness to embrace change,
to pivot when necessary, and to never stop chasing what feels true to who I am. But beyond my own story, I think it’s important to share this because there are so many others — especially first-gen students and young professionals — who are navigating the same uncertainties I once did. I want them to know they’re not alone. Everyone has their own path, and just because yours looks different doesn’t mean it’s any less valid or valuable.
If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my journey, it’s that success isn’t about fitting into a mold, it’s about creating your own.I want people to understand that my brand is built on persistence, resilience, and authenticity. I share this because others may be going through the same, and I want them to know they’re not alone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d show them San Diego the way locals experience it. We’d start with breakfast at a local spot in El Cajon, known for their wonton noodle soup, a spot that’s been my favorite for years. Then, spend the day exploring the city and the events happening around town since there’s always something going on.

Some days we’d hit a trail, grab a meal where the chefs go, or find a quiet beach or hidden garden to just relax. It’s not about seeing everything, it’s about feeling the city.
By the end of the week, he’d get the San Diego lifestyle, the energy, the culture, the rhythm locals live with. And the bigger takeaway? Life’s the same way. Your path is your own, and the experiences you choose, the people you surround yourself with, and how you show up each day, that’s what defines your story.

I’m grateful to share my journey, all the lessons, the missteps, and the wins. More than anything, I want to emphasize the journey itself. Embrace it, learn from it, and enjoy it along the way. No one should ever feel alone, and I hope anyone who reads this knows that. If sharing my story helps even one person realize they’re not alone in this journey of life, then it’s more than worth it. Remember to stay persistent, stay true to yourself, and carve your own version of success.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ll always remember where I came from and the people who’ve been there with me. First, a huge thanks to my family and close friends, as well as coaches, mentors, and business partners who’ve guided me along the way.

A big part of my journey has been my involvement in San Diego’s cultural and student communities, which is where my leadership skills really grew:
Temple and Lion Dance Team Chánh Kiến (CK Lion Dance SD) — coaching and mentoring this team has been a cornerstone of my growth. It’s not just about performing at festivals and cultural events; it’s about teaching discipline, teamwork, and culture, and helping the younger generation grow through these traditions.

SDSU Fraternity Alpha Psi Rho (APsiRho) — a brotherhood focused on leadership and service. Staying involved allows me to guide younger members, support their personal and professional growth, and give back to the community that shaped me.

I couldn’t have done it without these communities. They’ve taught me that leadership is about lifting others up, passing on knowledge, and building the next generation. I’m grateful for every person, mentor, and teammate who’s been part of my journey.
I always try to live by this Denzel Washington quote: “Never forget where you came, you either a somebody or nobody.” It reminds me to stay grounded, remember who hel[ed me along the way, and keep pushing forward to make an impact. I hope anyone reading this knows that your impact isn’t just about your own success. It’s about lifting others up, guiding the next generation, and leaving a legacy that inspires.

Website: https://frostbite.vip/

Instagram: ktreezyceo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.tran.619

Other: IG:
@frostbitefam
@westcoastjadeco
@crownandcredit
@premierlamesa
@premiersouthbay
@ckliondancesd

website
https://westcoastjadeco.com/
https://premierfightsd.com/

Image Credits
IG: @raw.jules
IG: @bmb.photography
IG; @imaviviantran