Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Hoang
Hi Crystal, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in a small border city, El Paso, TX, where everyone knew each other, and opportunities felt limited. Coming from a low-income household, my parents worked tirelessly to keep my brother and me happy, despite the odds. At 19, I became a mom, walking at my high school graduation with my daughter on the way. I was a bit embarrassed, wondering what people would think, but finishing high school was a point of pride.
After graduation, I moved to Arizona to join my family and start a new chapter as a young mother. I took on any job I could to support my daughter, even if it meant working for $10 an hour. Over the next few years, we moved back and forth between El Paso and Arizona, searching for stability and support. I was often on government assistance and living paycheck-to-paycheck, but with the help of my family and programs like food stamps and daycare assistance, I made it work. I always knew I wanted more for us but felt trapped by circumstances.
When I finally settled in Arizona, I met my husband, and he joined the Navy 2 years later. His ambition inspired me and showed me the possibilities beyond my comfort zone. We embraced military life together, which meant frequent moves, adjusting to new places, and building a life wherever the Navy sent us. Each move represented a new chapter filled with its own unique challenges and growth.
In 2017, while stationed in Virginia, I decided to go back to school. By the time we moved to San Diego, I was ready to commit to finishing my degree. Initially, I wasn’t sure what path I wanted to pursue, so I started with general courses. While there, I landed a part-time job doing admin work, which eventually led to a position in accounting. It was around this time that I found my passion for marketing, drawn to the impact social media could have on businesses.
In 2022, another opportunity arose for my husband, taking us to New York, where he pursued a master’s degree at Columbia University. I took the chance to keep pushing forward, studying marketing and looking for roles to build my experience. I was hired by *Newsweek* as a Social Media Manager, supporting *Unconventional*, a show that shines a light on military life. This role was incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to apply my skills and grow my network while working remotely.
Throughout all of this, my passion for social media continued to grow. I’d been active on my platforms since the pandemic, sharing my story, connecting with other women, and building a personal brand rooted in authenticity and motivation. Inspired by everything I’d learned, I decided to take a leap and 2 months ago, co-founded *45 Degree Media*, a marketing agency aimed at helping businesses succeed with the power of a strategic digital presence.
Looking back, I see how each challenge and setback shaped my journey, from young motherhood and financial struggles to building a career I’m passionate about. Today, I’m proud to say that I went from having little to my name to a degree, impactful experience, and now my own business. I’m grateful for every chapter, every move, and every lesson that brought me here, ready to create a brighter future for myself, my family, and the businesses I now help grow.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Reaching new heights always comes with obstacles and challenges. One of my biggest hurdles has been balancing my career aspirations with the needs of my family. There were times I felt completely stuck—I knew what I wanted but didn’t see a clear path forward. I’ll be the first to say I didn’t get here on my own; I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system. My husband, my parents, extended family, and even my 18-year-old have all stepped in to help with my little one when I needed it.
Time management has been another challenge. There truly aren’t enough hours in the day for an entrepreneur, especially with a family to care for. To make it work, I prioritize ruthlessly, setting routines and ensuring my family gets quality time each day. Sacrifices are necessary—sometimes I have to give up things I enjoy to make room for my goals.
Motivation can also be a struggle. There are days when I don’t feel like working, but I know that persistence is essential. I keep going because I have a vision, and that keeps me moving forward. And then there’s the outside noise—the negativity and misunderstanding that can surround entrepreneurs. This journey isn’t always understood by others, and that’s okay. Blocking out the noise and staying focused is key. Each challenge has pushed me to grow stronger, more determined, and more resilient in pursuit of my goals.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
45 Degree Media is a marketing agency that focuses on helping businesses grow through strategic marketing solutions. With a strong emphasis on social media and digital engagement, 45 Degree Media provides tailored marketing strategies to boost brand visibility, increase customer reach, and drive sales. This agency aims to expand into other industries, offering expertise that enables businesses to connect with their audiences effectively and thrive in a competitive market.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
San Diego has so much to love and very little to dislike. Growing up in El Paso, Texas—a vibrant border city with a predominantly Hispanic population—I find many similarities here, especially in South San Diego, where I live. The food and culture are incredible, and the strong military presence adds a unique and inspiring sense of community. As a military spouse, I truly appreciate how this city embraces and supports service members and their families. What sets San Diego apart, though, is the ability to enjoy the beach, scenic hikes, gorgeous weather, and even take a quick drive to L.A. If I had to pick one downside, it would be the traffic, but honestly, that’s a small price to pay for everything else this city has to offer!
Pricing:
- https://45degreemedia.com/deals/
Contact Info:
- Website: https://45degreemedia.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crysssbri?igsh=dmZmdnppYTVzOHk1&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568400325442&mibextid=LQQJ4d
