A couple of years ago, I got laid off from my dream job as a film executive at Netflix. Hollywood was imploding, no one had jobs, and I didn’t know what to do with myself. Every job application came back with rejection after rejection, and to cope, I did the only two things that gave me peace of mind: I wrote and made things with my hands.  

As my collection of journals grew, I figured I could DIY one of those fancy leather covers for myself. I posted a couple process videos that gained traction on TikTok, and was surprised to receive a flood of inquiries to purchase one. Soon, my tiny account found an audience that appreciates the analog creative process as much as I do. 

I started selling journals in August 2025, and have been overwhelmed by the amount of support ever since. I’ve never felt more creatively liberated, which is saying something after a career in the film industry. It’s been a dream I didn’t think I was allowed to have, and now more than ever, I’m committed to growing this community we’re building together. 

Launching KAGO has been a huge step toward expanding my small one-woman show beyond the confines of my little LA apartment. I can't wait for you to see what more there is to come!

- Mira Kurumi