26 December 2012 - Meet the Founder-
Growing up in South Central, Los Angeles, California took its toll on Joseph Collins Jr. Gang violence and drug ridden streets were a daily battle for the Collins family as they ventured out into their work and school lives. At the age of ten, Joseph’s mother decided to uproot her family and move them to the safer neighborhoods of Pomona, California where Joseph essentially grew up. Money was tight, forcing the family to rely on food stamps and other government assistance just to get by. Although there were many struggles growing up, Joseph emerced himself in learning and creativity.
A native Angeleno from South Central, Joseph Collins looks back on his childhood with fondness and accredits his parents as the most influential people in his life. Joseph knew at an early age that he was born for television. The Three Stooges, Speed Racer and The Addams Family were among the many shows that lit the spark inside this future Television CEO, knowing that one day he would be developing and producing top notch shows like the ones he grew up watching. Gary High School in Pomona, California was the developmental grounds for Joseph’s future as the founder of Punch Television Network. Here he was heavily influenced by his high school teacher, Barbara Barkermeyer, who opened doors for him to gain his first Hollywood audition. Persistence paid off when, after months of calling, Joseph landed an internship with WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His flare and contagious personality helped him grow from an intern to working as the youngest news anchor to report the business news, drawing people in to hear his take on the daily events.
Many people have influenced and shaped Joseph’s role in the television world, from J.W. Witt former CEO of WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the story of William Paley, founder of CBS, to Michael Eisner, former CEO of Disney John Malone and Ted Turner the cable industries trailblazer. These men have inspired Joseph and helped keep him focus on achieving his dream of owning and operating a television network, which has since become a reality.
The CEO and founder of Punch TV Network, Joseph Collins has been recognized as the “Entrepreneur of the Year” presented by the California Legislative Assembly. He has also been notably recognized by United States Senator Dianne Feinstein, congratulating him on his excellence in Entrepreneurship, superior leadership, dedication and perseverance
