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Growth Mode: John Livengood’s Quiet Climb

written by

LUCIANO LAYNE

At 31, DMV native John Livengood, better known as Livengoodlivin, is the definition of self-built. A publicist rooted in entertainment, fashion, and small business, Livengood has spent the last five years growing into his own, sharpening his instincts, refining his style, and letting his personality lead the way. With a unique sense of fashion, a standout look, and an unmistakable presence, he’s not trying to fit into an industry mold. He’s creating one.

As the cofounder of LivenrichPR and TheDMVDaily, Livengood is steadily stacking a résumé shaped by real work and real relationships. Every move is intentional, every lesson earned. His drive comes from a simple belief that whatever the last level was, the next one has to be better.

His mentality has helped him build an expansive and diverse client list. His past and current work includes SwayvoTwain, Consequence, Prince Swanny, Stove God Cooks, Young Roddy, The Original UnBraider, Call of Duty, Loe Adde, and many more. The range alone speaks volumes, but what really defines him is that even with all of it, he’s never fully satisfied. Improvement isn’t optional, it’s constant.

Beyond the business, Livengood is deeply committed to mental health advocacy. He’s candid about his lifelong internal battles, choosing to reframe them not as weaknesses, but as sources of strength.

“I always want to be good, but I can be better,” he says. “I can make some dumb mistakes at times with the best of intentions because I want to be the best I can be for people. It’s a great mindset for progression, to always want to be better, but horrible for mental health, because as composed and cool as I can be, I can break down as well. I ain’t ashamed to admit that.” Honesty is part of what makes him relatable and respected.

Education plays a major role in his foundation. Livengood is a proud HBCU graduate, earning his bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland Eastern Shore, followed by both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in public relations and organizational communications management from Bowie State University. The academic discipline shows in his strategic thinking and long-term vision.

Creatively, his reach goes even further. Livengood has stepped into acting, appearing in television shows such as Law & Order, along with several film appearances, including All In, which debuted on BET. It’s another lane he continues to explore, adding yet another layer to an already multifaceted career.

Outside of work, his personality shines through in the details. He enjoys fitness, animals, tequila, his Muslim faith, and is an avid video gamer. He proudly rides for his favorite football team, the Philadelphia Eagles. His go-to foods include chicken and rice, buldak noodles, chicken wings with mumbo sauce, and salmon — simple, flavorful, and reliable.

His music taste is just as wide-ranging as his résumé, pulling inspiration from legends and modern greats alike. On any given day, you might hear Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Whitney Houston, Kendrick Lamar, Bad Omens, Three Days Grace, Rihanna, Toni Braxton, Sade, LL Cool J, Al B., or J. Cole in rotation.

At the core of it all, John Livengood is a work in progress, and proud of it. He’s honest about the struggles, hungry for growth, and committed to becoming better than he was yesterday. In an industry obsessed with quick wins, Livengood is focused on longevity. One move at a time, one lesson at a time, he’s proving that being one of one isn’t about perfection; it’s about the mission.

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