Richard Phillips: Tunnel Vision with a Purpose
By La’Crystele Brown
FWIS Contributing Writer
When Richard Phillips talks about Tunnel Vision Entertainment, it becomes clear right away that it’s not just about concerts or events. For him, it’s always been about bringing people together, giving back, and showing the community what’s possible when you stay focused on your goals.
That focus started young, back in the mid-90s, while still a junior at Wayne High School, Phillips was already organizing teen parties and talent shows. He laughs when he remembers how he had to handle everything over the phone because he was too young to sign for venues in person. “I’d show up with the money and the paperwork and they’d realize, wait, this is just a kid,” he said. But even then, he was determined to make things happen.
By 2015, after years of hosting parties, concerts, and community events, he decided to turn that determination into a company. Tunnel Vision Entertainment was born, giving him a platform not only to keep creating events but also to expand his work in the community. “I wanted something official, something structured,” he said. “I had already been doing the work, but Tunnel Vision gave it a name and a direction.”
Over the years, Tunnel Vision has become known as much for its community outreach as it has for its entertainment. Every year, Phillips leads a back-to-school drive that provides hundreds of kids with fully stocked backpacks. Around Christmas, families gather for his toy giveaway, where boys and girls each leave with bags filled with gifts. And at Thanksgiving, Phillips makes sure 400 families can put a turkey on the table. With support from Walmart, the Pontiac Market, the City of Fort Wayne, and other local sponsors, those efforts continue to grow.
“I always tell my kids it’s a blessing to bless others,” Phillips said. “That’s why I keep them involved in the events. I want them to know the importance of giving back.” Now living in Dallas, he often depends on his children and his mother to keep the work going when he can’t be in town. “They do a wonderful job,” he added proudly.
That same spirit of empowerment is behind the Big Business Vendor Convention, which Phillips started to help local entrepreneurs see themselves differently. “People will say, I’ve just got this little business. I tell them, no, it’s big. Always call your stuff big. Even if it’s just you and one worker, you’re still a big deal.”
This year’s convention, the third so far, will take place on October 11 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event is free to the community and will feature up to 200 vendors, live music from DJ Polaris, performances, and plenty of food. Thanks to sponsors like Walmart, Longhorn, Mitchell’s Bar and Grill, and Anthony Medical Associates, attendees won’t pay anything at the door.
But Tunnel Vision isn’t just about shopping and entertainment. Phillips has also created spaces to honor everyday workers, like his annual Scrub Ball. “It’s for the unsung heroes,” he explained. “Everyone who wears scrubs—CNAs, QMAs, front desk workers, everybody. They get a red-carpet night with pictures and music and just feel celebrated.”
Looking ahead, he is preparing to launch a Scholarship Ball, where Tunnel Vision will award financial support to graduating seniors who want to study business. “I want them to learn the right way to do business,” he said. “I made my share of mistakes. If I can help someone avoid those, then I’ve done my part.” He also plans to bring in business leaders to share their knowledge and mentor students.
Family has always been at the center of Phillips’ drive. Raised between Los Angeles and Fort Wayne, he credits his mother and grandmother with encouraging him to believe in himself. “They always told me I could do anything I put my mind to,” he recalled. “That’s why I named the company Tunnel Vision. It’s about blocking out distractions and negativity, staying focused, and moving forward.”
And right alongside him, his wife continues to be a steady source of strength. “I’m so grateful for my wife,” Phillips said. “She is the one who keeps me motivated, and she’s always there every step of the way.”
Of course, his path hasn’t been without challenges. “There were times I wanted to quit,” he admitted. “But I always tell people, never give up. Pray about it. Find motivation—whether that’s your kids, your family, or your personal goals—and let that keep you going.”
For him, motivation comes from family, faith, and a drive to keep creating. “When you’ve got motivation and faith, you can accomplish anything,” he said.
Phillips also takes time to mentor younger promoters and business owners, reminding them to prepare for challenges and stay focused. “I’ve been through it all,” he said. “So when I see someone coming up, I give them advice, let them know what’s ahead, and try to encourage them. Sometimes people just need to hear that they can do it.”
As for the future, Phillips hopes to grow Tunnel Vision’s reach even further, expanding its charitable work and eventually passing the company down to his children. “One day I want them to take it over completely,” he said. “Family first—that’s what matters. And as long as we keep serving others, the blessings will keep coming.”
He also makes himself available to anyone who wants guidance or support with their own ideas. “Sometimes people just want advice, sometimes they want to collaborate,” he said. “Either way, I’m open to helping.”
Anyone interested in working with him, seeking mentorship, or learning from his experience can reach Richard Phillips directly at +1 (260) 564-3322.
From teen parties at the YMCA to sold-out shows at the Embassy Theatre, from handing out turkeys to preparing scholarships for young entrepreneurs, Richard Phillips has built something far bigger than an entertainment company. With Tunnel Vision, he has created a legacy of generosity, resilience, and community that shows what’s possible when you truly keep your focus.