We’re looking forward to introducing you to David Marino. Check out our conversation below.
Hi David , thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I’ve learned that I’m not afraid to show up as my authentic self. For me, it’s important to put positivity into a world that can feel so divided. Through my horror interviews—yes, horror—I’ve found a way to go deeper than just talking about films or careers. I use those conversations to explore life itself: the challenges we face, the obstacles we overcome and the fact that none of us are defined by a single chapter.
We are all constantly evolving. Our past doesn’t define us, and even our present isn’t the final word on who we are. Each new chapter brings growth, perspective, and an opportunity to redefine ourselves.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the host of The Marino Show on Austin Music TV in Austin, TX, where I spend a lot of time interviewing indie directors, actors, musicians, and other creatives, all through the lens of the horror genre. What makes the show unique is that it isn’t built around a rigid “brand” or strategy. It’s organic. I focus on the interviews I genuinely want to do, which keeps it fun and authentic.
By day, I work in corporate communications at an engineering firm, so this show is really a passion project for me. I don’t put heavy expectations on it. I’m more interested in having real conversations about someone’s craft, their creativity and ultimately why they do what they do. For me, it’s less about promoting a project and more about exploring the human side of art, storytelling and perseverance.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always been a creative at heart. As a kid, I loved writing and often found myself crafting scary stories. I also always felt a little different, like I didn’t quite fit in, especially growing up in Texas, where sports ruled everything. From an early age, we’re conditioned to follow a certain script: grow up, go to college, land the job, get married, have 2.5 kids, buy the house and call it fulfillment. There’s nothing wrong if that’s the path that makes you happy. I just don’t think that’s everyone’s story.
I went to college and built a career, but my path looks different from that script. I’ve never been married, I don’t have kids, and I came out as gay in my late 20s. Now, at 50, I actually feel more creative than ever. My life isn’t what I once imagined it would be, but is that necessarily a bad thing?
I’ve learned to let go of what society says life should look like and instead focus on gratitude for what I do have: a good job, the independence of paying for my own place, a supportive circle of family and friends, and the freedom to pursue creative outlets in my free time. That feels authentic, and to me, that feels like success.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to stop worrying so much, and to stop caring about what other people think. I’ve always been a worrier, and for a long time, especially into my 30s, I was incredibly insecure. Someone’s opinion of me could make or break me.
Over time, I’ve learned to let go of that need for external validation. Sure, we all want a little of it now and then, but I no longer let other people’s opinions—good or bad—carry so much weight. What matters most is how I feel about myself. I know when I’ve made a mistake, and I take ownership of it. But I’m also learning to embrace the other side: being okay with admitting when I’ve done something really well.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe it’s important for all of us to learn how to live and work alongside people who are different from us. We all carry judgments and personal beliefs, but real growth only happens when we step outside our comfort zones and engage with people from different backgrounds or perspectives. Without that, we remain divided.
That said, there’s an important distinction to make: accepting that others may have different opinions is not the same as tolerating hate. I have no patience for anyone who demeans or dehumanizes others. We’re living in a time where it feels like everyone is shouting at each other instead of actually listening. For me, the commitment is to keep fostering understanding and inclusion, because that’s the only way we move forward together.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace i\spending time with friends, family, catching a horro movie, browsing for vinyl, going to concerts or just relaxing at home or at a friend’s place. About eight years ago, I also started working out. It’s not always easy, and I can’t say I love it all the time, but having a great trainer has made all the difference. Exercise has become a powerful way for me to manage anxiety and find balance.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themarinoshow/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinotvshow/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@themarinoshow
