We had the good fortune of connecting with Deidre Gaskin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deidre, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Well for me, starting out in business I was afraid of taking risks as I’m assuming every entrepreneur is. However, I had to realize that’s what being in business is all about. Once I started taking risks in my business, whether it be financial or personal such as missing that event to focus on my career or spending a coin or two on materials for my business, then I started to get noticed. I’m learning to invest in my business even more now because I want MayLee Media to be here for a lifetime not just for a season. Personal life, I changed for the better around 2015. I’ve always been a firm believer in Jesus Christ but I started to hold myself accountable even more in 2015 when I got back in church for real. I stopped partying, drinking and started really being devoted to Christ. It was tough and still is but looking back at how far I’ve come, I’m thankful. Even in my new relationship, which is now my MARRIAGE… trusting God and letting go of toxic people and moving myself from toxic situations and places has been my the biggest part of my healing.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is my public relations firm, MayLee Media. MayLee Media is a faith-based PR firm that serves clients in the lifestyle and sports sector. I named my firm after my late grandmother because she never met a stranger and as a publicist, we pride ourselves on our relationships and our faith. I’m most proud of the name because I’m leaving a legacy. Far as my journey, it was tough. It was a lot of free/unpaid work starting out. A lot of sacrifices, no car, no money, barely a roof over my head and a lot of prayer! I think I came from a different breed because starting out in PR, I just wanted to get my hands dirty. I didn’t care about a check, I needed experience and connections and most young people nowadays want to jump into the deep water without a life jacket and expect people to save them. It doesn’t work like that. I don’t think I’ve overcome my challenges because they’re still there. I still have to go out and get clients and put myself out there for people to notice me so I embrace them because it’s part of the PRocess. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to stay in my own lane and do things God’s way and what works best for ME not others. I want the world to know I am passionate about executing the visions of my clients. This is purpose and a ministry for me in a sense. I don’t do this to be trendy, I want to be a blessing.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
We are definitely going to Thumbs Up, Mr. Everything, and basically any wing spot. Haha. You know ATL is known for some good wings. I would also take them to Andretti or Main Event because I’m a big kid and so is my best friend. Far as hangout and just enjoy some good music and vibes, Peters St., Suite Lounge, or Atlantic Station.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My grandmother, God rest her soul and my husband, Mr. Gaskin of course. Also my mom, she doesn’t know exactly what I do but she’s always been my biggest cheerleader. Her and my grandmother rooted for me on the court and track and now in the boardrooms and offices.

Website: www.mayleemedia.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/deidregaskin www.instagram.com/mayleemedia
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deidregaskin/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/deidrepalode (Trying to get @deidregaskin but Twitter not responding lol)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deidregaskin/

Image Credits
@mayleemedia @ben.atl @jus4lovephotos

Nominate someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.