We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle A. Pascal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started my business over 15 +years ago, I have to say, I didn’t give it much thought, I just did it. At the time, I wanted to leave the industry I was in (PR + Event planning) and pursue film production. I wanted to work on film/movie sets, I tried my darndest to find jobs as a production assistant, but no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t get a break. I was even all set to move to Los Angeles, and give it a go in Tinseltown, but then 9/11 happened and that put a halt on my plans.

As I thought about what I was going to do next, I continued to pursue jobs in production and eventually booked a small gig with an independent producer. I can’t even remember what my job was on set {laugh}, but I became friends with the producer and instead of me working on set, he asked me if I could help him promote his film. I think that was the first time I thought about starting my own business and becoming a publicist. I started romanticizing the idea of being independent, freelancing, or consulting. The next thing I know, my producer friend is showing me how to get incorporated, and I sent $150 to Albany, and MAP Unlimited Inc., was born.

What should our readers know about your business?
MAP Unlimited is a full-service public relations and event management company, that focuses on public and media relations for beauty, entertainment, and lifestyle brands and corporate event production/management. We’ve worked with some of the top beauty brands in the haircare industry, produced and managed national and international events, galas, and conferences.

Being a solopreneur has had its challenges over the years, but I have no regrets. Of course, they are things I would have done differently when I started but I feel like If I had done things by the “book”, I probably wouldn’t have done it. But, deciding to become a solopreneur, was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. With that said, it has not been easy. There were weeks, months, years when business was crappie, and chasing checks was the norm. But I’ve managed to work through the challenges by not giving up, being creative, and doing great work. But don’t get it twisted, the challenges played a number on my confidence. I questioned myself a lot and shed some tears. But, having the right people/mentors in my corner, helped a great deal.

I’ve learned a lot over the years, but the two lessons that keep me in the game are, giving a 100% all the time and staying consistent. There are no cutting corners. I avoid comparing myself to others. Never stop asking questions, and it doesn’t have to be lonely. Lastly, mistakes will be made, learn from them, dust yourself off and push forward.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in New York City, so there’s always something going on! Since I live in Harlem, we would start there. We would probably visit my favorite restaurant for brunch at The Edge on 139th street & Edgecombe, then head over to 125th street to take pictures in front of the Apollo theater because you just must. By now, we could probably go for a drink at Corners Social. The music and vibe are pretty good!

On day two, we would visit midtown, now that Broadway is opening, we would take in a show and after-do drinks at the Edison Hotel on 47th Street.

Day three, we head out in Brooklyn. So many cool spots to check out, museums, parks, and restaurants.

Day Four might be a free-for-all. We may hang out in Central Park or the upper west side at Pier i Cafe at West 70th and riverside drive, they have good food, drinks, and a great sunset.

Day five, I would let her pick whatever she wanted to do.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shout-out and recognition to two women who continuously supported me and my journey. Renée E. Warren-Mebane and Kirsten Poe-Hill, co-owner of Noelle Elaine Media Inc. They gave me my first real job in the event and PR industry. I am so grateful for all the lessons, the work ethic, and an example of what successful Black women in business looks like.

They’ve shaped the woman I am, personal and in business. To this day, they continue to hire me and my company to produce and manage projects for their top clients. Their trust, guidance, and mentorship were essential to my decision to start my own company.

Website: www.mapunlimitedpr.com

Instagram: @map1127

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepascal

Other: I would love to highlight my Podcast PR Girl Rant!   IG @prgirlrant www.prgirlrant.com

Image Credits:
Mandy Karangelen (first 4 Pics) and Jane Brewton (Photo with plaid sweater)

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