Category: Celebrity interview

Interview with Malinda Williams and Tariq Walker!

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Malinda Williams, a compelling and amazingly talented actress/producer who’s played in some of our most beloved shows/films like Soul Food: The Series, A Thin Line Between Love & Hate, and The Wood! Tariq Walker, an award-winning journalist and successful media executive who’s made powerful waves in the digital media world. Together they have launched This Is Leaving, a Travel & Lifestyle Blog Site/Business that allows us to see beautiful scenic views and adventures, intertwined with love through their lenses. Recently, they allowed me to interview them. Here’s what the recently engaged couple had to say:

1. Where are you both from?
Malinda: New Jersey

Tariq: Philadelphia

2. Can we talk about your successful careers for a moment? Malinda, How did you get into acting and Have you always had a passion for it?
Malinda: I started acting when I was around 12. I started in television commercials and then transitioned to film and T.V. in my teens.

Tariq, what made you want to become a journalist and work in digital media? Is it something you’ve always dreamed of doing?

Tariq: I was drawn to journalism because of my love of writing and communicating ideas via the written word. My career in digital media began as a combination of my passion for writing and science fiction, combined with the growth and development of the internet. It seemed a perfect fit.

3. Can you tell us about your Travel and Lifestyle Blog Site/Business, This is Leaving and How it all came about?
This Is Leaving was an idea conceived from our love of travel and wanting to share our adventures and its benefits with our family and friends. We realized the impact on them, we decided we wanted to share that with a larger audience. We’ve since expanded it to include content production and our first e-commerce platform, Shopshesgotahabit.com

4. What place have you had your most memorable experience thus far and Why?

Our most memorable experience was probably the trip we took to Barcelona.

Malinda: For me, it was a way to connect with Tariq. He spoke the language fluently and I didn’t so I really had to rely on him for communication and getting around. I felt I was vulnerable and that helped build a trust between us.

Tariq: For me, It was our first trip to Europe together and she trusted me enough to let me to do all the planning which was meaningful. It showed she trusted in my abilities and that it laid an important foundation for our relationship.

5. What’s the most delicious food you’ve eaten thus far? Where and What was it? Tuscany and Monterosso, Italy. In Tuscany, we were blessed to have a private cooking lesson with the executive chef. We helped him prepare a tasty red shrimp risotto and strawberry tiramisu – ridiculously delicious!!!

6. Why is traveling so important? What are some benefits of traveling?

We get to have all of these great experiences…we learn about ourselves, about the world and about each other and we get to bring all the best parts of those learned experiences home.

7. What advice would you give to someone out there, who might be hesitant when it comes to traveling to new, and very different places?
We always say let love drive you, not fear, hesitation, doubt or the unknown. You’d be surprised how the world opens up to you, when you open up to it. There’s so much out there waiting for you to discover it. It’s amazing!

8. Any new projects coming up that you’re working on and can tell us about?
We just launched the first of 2 planned e-commerce platforms. She’s Got A Habit is a wellness, lifestyle and retail site all inspired by world travel. Shopshesgotahabit.com

Be sure to check out their site! https://www.thisisleaving.com/

 

Thank you both so much for taking time out!

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Interview with Jordan Joseph!

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Jordan Joseph had big dreams of becoming a singer since the age of 6, and has been working towards those dreams ever since. He is a true and genuine example of what determination, hard work, and focus looks like. At one point, Jordan was living out of his car while still working towards his goals and dreams. He never gave up which ultimately landed him a record deal with Nick Cannon and his Ncredible team. Jordan is working on his first EP. Recently, he allowed me to interview him and here’s what he had to say…
1. Where are you from?
I am from Kentwood by way of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Both Parents went to MSU so that’s where I was born the MSU campus.
2. What made you want to become a singer?
As a young boy my Step-Father was a producer to the stars and by 6 I was already dreaming of being a Backstreet Boy or in BOYZ2MEN. I would put on full shows to full albums making all my siblings dance as well. Music was a big part of my childhood at home and I dreamed of Hollywood as I had seen it but more than that I just loved the freedom of music and performing. It was an escape from my family issues.
 3. What does music mean to you?
 Music literally means the world to me. Music is a mood. Music is artist expression of a moment or story. What better way to feel something or make another heart feel something than by music, melodies, poetry etc.  Music literally means the world. I don’t even have a preferred genre, I love music. Real music makes you feel and can inspire an entire movement and change in the culture…in the world.
4. Who inspired you growing up?
Michael Jackson of course! Drake is also a big one. But I love so many artist of many genres. Usher and Chris Brown were big for me as well. I wanted to be a Backstreet Boy so there is that. Prince, J Holiday, Jon B. I am a huge Eminem fan and have been since “Slim Shady,” Since my dad worked with Usher and many other artist out at the time so many became huge inspirations. The Love frequency is were I want to live though.
5. Can you describe how your life has been impacted since working with Nick Cannon?
Wow, Since the moment with Nick I’ve spent most of my time rediscovering who “Jordan Joseph” the artist is. For so long the dream seemed more like chasing the sun. I didn’t realize how far I had run since I had become so use to running and surviving so far from home. I was once told “God will humble you in such a way that you will serve those that will one day serve you.” This stuck with me since because I have spent my life doing for others and working in the service industry. Since Nick I have been able to let up on that some. I have been able to get back to finding my voice having only know it in a group. I have spent much time with myself, but not as I was while living in my car but spiritually and mentally. As you saw there was a breathe of air ending my video with Nick, I’m currently breathing and finally working as an artist. I have experienced some very difficult moments in the business and its a lot of patience and confidence. I’m learning an loving. Most of all I’m coming!
6. You’re working on your first EP right? How is it going?
Yes, this is correct! Its coming along. This is a lot more work and waiting than imagine. I’m such a perfectionist an so in my head at times of recording music. To me everything can always “be better.” I’ve recorded some amazing music and met amazing producers. Still working on it though! Stay tuned! The music is so good!
7.What do you like to do in your free time?
  This is a hard one. In a real answer, “I don’t know.” Ive spent much of my life chasing the dream. I’m learning to live now that I have SOME time. I find myself at the movies solo a lot. I love to bowl! I love the beach! Man spent many nights at the beach looking at the moon and stars. Never know what you`ll see. Drop me in a room full of dreamers and great convo, otherwise look for me falling in love. I love the simple things. I haven’t been able to travel but I want to see the world. Share my story and spread some insight and love.
8. How do you stay so fit?
Listen, at 3 months old I was in a car accident that killed me. Thank God it wasn’t my time. The doctors said I wouldn’t walk, talk, or live as a normal child. I am very active! I love to try new things. I also worked at Equinox for 6 years and it created a healthy lifestyle for me in the gym and outside. Fitness and health is very important to me. Workout 3/5 times a week and eat healthy. I’m also a pescetarian.
9. What advice would you give to someone who maybe struggling and wanting to get into the music industry?
Never give up! If it is really in your heart and you dream about this, then never quit! The music industry is one of the hardest to break into for so many reasons. Its the industry where you can be who you want or who everyone wants you to be but there is NO easy way to break in. There is no right answer. Never forget to be true to who you are and measure success on your terms. I chose to be right to the world and somehow I landed a foot in the door. Now I am learning more about myself before I walk through it. You must walk with confidence in who you are. If you don’t believe who you are, how can you expect anyone else to? Have faith!!! And do everything from the heart.
10. What keeps you so grounded, humble, real, and down to earth?
You MUST take time for yourself yes, but what people don’t understand is you must also be present. Present in the world around you. Look up! Fall in love as it comes! Compliment and bring joy to others! Nothing feels better or feeds the heard and mind like bringing a sense of calm or joy to others. And as an artist these are the things you write and sing about. These are your stories. If that doesn’t help the gym and meditation daily helps!
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Thank you so much Jordan for taking time out!

Interview with Dominique Loude!

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Dominique Loude has been dancing since the age of 10 which ultimately landed her a well deserved spot dancing alongside Beyoncé. Dominique is an inspiration to MANY and is building her own empire. She recently allowed me to interview her…

1. Where are you from?

Detroit, MI

2. At what age did you start dancing and How would you describe your dancing style?

I started dancing at the age of 10 but didn’t take it Seriously until I was 16. I would say I’m a pretty versatile dancer but my go-to is dancing in heels

3. What made you want to get into dancing?
I was a kid that did everything. From playing the piano to singing. One day I decided to take a dance class and the rest is history. I fell in love with it.
4. Who inspired you growing up?
Growing up my biggest inspiration was my mom because of how strong she was. I watched her endure so much pain and she never folded.
5. If you could only use 3 words to describe your experience on OTR2 tour, What words would you use?
Growth, love, and happiness
6. How has being on that tour impacted your life to this day?
This tour made me love myself more and realize that I deserve everything coming my way. It opened up more doors for me and changed my outlook on life period. Working with Beyonce made me realize the work is never done. There’s always more. More to give more to do. My work ethic was already crazy lol but now it’s like what’s next. I can always go harder.
7. What do you like to do in your free time?
I don’t have much free time but when I do I like to chill lol. Sometimes go out with my friends
8. What advice would you give to someone wanting to become a Professional Dancer?
Believe in yourself. Work like your already successful. Train train and more training!!! Do your homework! Stretch!
9. What keeps you so grounded, humble, real and down to earth?
I know where I come from and I know that as quick as something can be given it can be taken away!
10. Any new projects you’re working on and can tell us about?
Working on my dance line and looking for a building for my dance studio.
Thank you so much for taking time out and You are truly an inspiration to us all!

Interview with Queen Ali!

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404EEF50-DA8B-4050-B31C-A4E256F478C2You can catch her on Instagram in the funniest skits, pulling pranks on her longtime boo King Ali lol!! Queen Ali is a social media influencer,(A TRUE QUEEN) and a mother of 2! She’s beautiful, funny, real, cool, humble, intelligent, and down to earth!!! She so graciously allowed me to interview her, and I’m thankful!! 
1. Where are you from? 
I am from a very – I mean, VERY – small town in Massachusetts. I’m a Country girl, for sure! Do you know in the Horror movies, where people walk out of the house and you scream “Noooo, go back in!” It’s always pitch dark out, surrounded by trees with no street lights surrounding it. Yes, that’s where I live.
2. Have you always been funny, and what made you want to start doing Prank of love videos/funny videos? How did that come about? 
I think I’ve always been funny… and annoying… or a solid mixture of both. Since a child, I’ve always wanted to be the center of attention, which I believe has slowed down some as I’ve matured.
The funny skits that King Ali and I create, along with  “REAL Time, Our Time” and Prank of Love, all truly came about from our lives. This is how we are with one another, almost daily, and we decided to allow the world to be a part of SOME of the craziness! He tends to take things too far though; truthfully, I need to up my pranks a bit. I welcome all ideas – DM me, please!
3. How do you balance work with motherhood, and marriage?
Carefully! Although are not married – yet, it’s no different; balancing our relationship and the children is just as much work! We have two beautiful children, Adriel and Ayira, who we absolutely adore! We both work full time and have wonderful careers, as well. Adding being “Social Media Influencers” into the mix and it creates a whole new, time consuming, dynamic for us. I do not think I was quite ready. There were a LOT of long nights, often times where we would get 2-3 hours of sleep per night, then have to wake up and put on the “happy” face the next day. Let me add, “Sleep Debt” is a REAL thing – I still have hours I owe. Either way, we began finding ways to make it work, yet still be able to watch Power on Sundays and Empire on Wednesdays together. 80% of the time, our time together consisted of creating ideas and filming skits late night. Unfortunately, we’ve taken almost all of 2018 off from creating. We’ve had so much go on this year in our personal lives that creating just has not been a priority for us as of late. However, we do have hundreds of ideas that need to come to life, so we look forward to getting back to work in 2019!
4. What advice would give to a full time working  mom, wanting to follow her dreams, and wanting to use her social media platform as a way to do it? 
Honestly, I don’t even use my platform to its full potential, so I’m in no position to preach. The best advice I can give anyone is to be consistent with your passion or art (acting; singing; dancing; crafts, etc) and everything else will follow! I’d also advise her to really KNOW YOURSELF. Being transparent in the Social Media world can be draining. You deal with a lot of ups and downs, including people that will love you, hate you, and love to hate you! You must have thick skin and be able to balance the good with the bad, because it’s easy to become discouraged. Always remember why you’re doing this: feed the positive and cherish the good, which will allow you to continue to inspire and aspire.
5. What keeps you so real, humble, grounded, and down to earth? 
First off, thank you so much for the compliments! You’re so sweet! I’d honestly say the way I was brought up. If you ever met my parents and grandmother, you’d have a profound understanding of why I’m the woman I am today. Growing up, I always heard my grandmother say “there but for the Grace of God, Go I,” and I think that has helped mold me. I also understand that what God gives, he can take away. what’s important in life isn’t materialistic, so I live very simple and focus on loving and cherishing those closest to me, knowing that God will always provide.
6. Any new projects coming up, that you’re working on, and can tell us about? 
I have one that I can’t say TOO much about right now, but hopefully if everything goes as planned, you’ll see soon enough. (pray for ya girl this year) Also, I have a LOT of work to do in 2019, so hopefully you’ll see more of my face on all Social Media platforms.
Thank you girl. I appreciate the great questions, and your time.
 
If I don’t talk to you soon, have a WONDERFUL Holiday Season.
 
much love!

Interview with Tanya Scott

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111FECAA-53B5-4164-90BD-FDCB671723DFTanya Scott is one of the stars, of the hit Reality tv show Little Women: ATL, a busy mother of three, Herbalist, and a BOSS! Tanya started a company called Life Body Naturals. She has a passion for healing, and helping people using natural products. She is successfully helping many people, on their roads to living a more healthier lifestyle. She inspires me, and countless others. Recently, Tanya gave me the opportunity to interview her. Enjoy!! 

 

1. How did you come up with Life Body Naturals, and what made you want to become a herbalist? Can you tell us a little bit about Life Body Naturals?
Life Body Naturals came from my passion of wanting to help people heal themselves. At a young age I lost my grandparents and uncle to cancer, strokes, liver disease, and mental illnesses. I didn’t want that for myself or my children. Life Body Naturals is a company dedicated to helping people feel better in their bodies and heal themselves from naturally the way Mother Nature intended. We have products to help boost the immune system, fight candida, parasites in the body, autoimmune disorders, build bone health, digestive health, infertility, painful + irregular periods, boosting breast milk supply, and helping moms stay healthy during pregnancy. We offer internal and external healing products for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and acene. We also offer one on one consultations for those who need a more unique approach to their healing.

2. What’s your regimen as far as what you eat? How do you stay healthy?
I am sure to include herbal supplements into my diet daily as well as lots of water, leafy greens, and organic fruits and veggies.

3. How do you balance your business with having kids?
I make a schedule for myself so that I am working during certain hours of the day and week and give the rest of my time to my self care and to my family. I am sure that I don’t over work myself and that I get to spend time with my kids daily and take off regularly for my own self care.

4. What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business?
I’d advise anyone looking to start a business to make sure they know exactly what their goal is with their business. Make sure its something that will make them happy and make sure their marketing is A1. Promote promote promote and be patient. Get your name out there and make sure people don’t forget you. Leave a great first expression. Budget and make sure your income from your business can go back into your business to help you make even more sales. Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life!

5. What keeps you humble, down to earth, and grounded because I’ve watched you on some of your LIVE videos where you’re just shopping, cooking or just chatting it up with your fans?
I am grounded because I don’t put myself above others. I am grateful and humble that so many people love me and look to me for healing and advice.

6. Losing weight, and just being healthy is a constant struggle. If someone is looking to start eating healthy. What kinds foods should they start eating, and what foods should they stay away from?
They should definitely eat more leafy greens and focus on healing their digestive tract. Solar Fusion from my company lifebodynaturals.com can help with that. They should stay away from dairy and artificial sugars.

7. Are you working on any new products, and projects that we can look out for?
Yes! Make sure that you’re following me on IG and Twitter @tanyatehanna & @lifebodynaturals Twitter @lifebodynatural for all updates for the projects and new products I’m working on.

Thank you!