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

Hi Derek, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
I’ve given them a strong understanding of compassion, empathy, and drive.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As an artist I fall into some strange categories as an acquired musical savant. I’m fascinated with all facets of the entertainment industry, and have found myself wearing a plethora of hats throughout the last 14 yrs. Live music performances, keynote speaking engagements, and television, have become the backbone in sharing my work. Currently, I am absolutely beyond excited, as we prepare launch for the new streaming show and PodCast ” Jason and the Accidental Savant.” I really don’t think there’s anything that sets me apart from anyone out there, I just work my ass off, no, like REALLY work my ass off, and I love every minute of it. That’s it! My advice to any and everyone, just work smarter/harder than everyone else, and do MORE for others! At the end of the day, it simply comes down to unity. My brand is ME, my authentic me!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love this question! A typical itinerary for my best friends that come to Colorado to hang with me, whoa. First off, I tick at a pretty high climate, so it takes my friends a day or two, to simply acclamate to my madness. I’ve usually gotten in a 3 mile walk, returned my emails, and had a coffee before most of em even open eyes. I have must stop ins when we go to the city. If baseball, football, hockey, or basketball is going, it’s always penciled in for the evening, or day game. Comedy Works is also a staple in our ventures out. Live music usually trumps all, and it’s always easy to find live music here in Denver. When it comes to food, which naturally is more important than music, I am always consistent.- Snooze Denver, Cholon Denver, Guard and Grace Denver, Jax Fish House Boulder, Le Roux Denver. Of course while in the city, the amazing breweries await, just pick one! We always split the week up, 3 days in the city, 4 days in mountains. Basically we spend 3 days gathering up as much live music, food, and fun possible. Then it’s time to hit the streams!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Jason Drenner – this gentleman has been a prominent figure in my personal, and business life. Jason and I were corporate execs together in telecom before my brain injury in 2006. He has been a mentor, motivator, business partner, and best friend for nearly 20 yrs. He’s a huge giver to this world, and his comedic edge keeps everyone thinking and laughing!

Instagram: Instagram/derekamato

Linkedin: Linkedin/derekamato

Twitter: Twitter/derekamato

Facebook: Facebook/derekamatomusic

Other: Instagram: @jasonandthesavant

Image Credit:
Cade Martin Photography
Cover – Southwest Airlines Magazine

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