PJ Schulte Expands Paragon West With Focus on Talent, Strategy, and Giving Back
PJ Schulte didn’t set out to become an actor.
He was already running a successful company. But the founder of Paragon West, a Los Angeles-based talent management and production firm, found himself accidentally drawn to performance after helping launch a client’s acting career.
“She moved to New York right before the acting program started,” Schulte said. “I had already paid for it, so I stepped in. I thought it would strengthen me as a manager. Instead, I ended up falling in love with it.”
That shift added a new layer to Schulte’s work. Known for managing creators, athletes, and entertainment brands, Paragon West handles talent across film, digital, and sports.
Clients include names such as boxer Ryan Garcia, Lionsgate, and the Michael Jackson Estate. “I’ve always wanted Paragon West to be more than deals and press releases,” Schulte said.
“We’re here to help our clients figure out what they want from their careers and lives, and then support them every step of the way until they achieve it.”
Schulte was adopted as a child. He credits Catholic Charities, the agency that helped place him, with giving him the foundation to succeed.
He now gives back regularly to adoption and foster care organizations. He is also currently working with programs to help support teens aging out of the system.
“It’s not charity,” he said. “It’s my responsibility. I was lucky enough to get help when I needed it. Now I try to return that whenever I can.”
Unlike most, Schulte has kept his acting career self-managed. He prefers it that way.
“It forces me to stay sharp and push a little harder,” he said. “If things don’t work out, there’s no one else to blame but yourself.”
His upcoming film and TV roles are set for production in 2026.
In the meantime, he’s focused on Paragon West’s expansion into original content and creative partnerships.
“Everything we do is built on relationships,” he said.
“You can’t fake that. You either build trust and deliver, or you don’t. That’s how you stay in this business.”
