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

Hi Tai, how do you think about risk?
I personally think that taking a risk is a clear indication that you trust, and have total faith in God.

I always tell the story of when I graduated college, and how excited I was to get my first high paying job. It was at an insurance company, and in no way was what I went to college for- but I was excited to be making some real money. I still did freelance journalism work on the side, and after a year of working for the insurance company, I got an opportunity to work for Hot 97. Doesn’t seem like such a “risky” risk but I was giving up good money and stability to work “on-call” just a few hours a week, take a pay cut, just to chase my dreams.

Needless to say, that leap of faith changed my life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Like Erykah Badu once said, “keep in mind that I’m an artist, and I’m sensitive about my sh*t.”

I think what sets me apart as a writer is that all my life I’ve been telling stories. My mom loves to tell the story of how I’ve been “making up stories” since I was able to talk. Lucky enough, I got to this place in my career by simply staying true to myself and that inner child in me that was busy “making up stories.” It hasn’t been easy trying to climb my way to the top, but long ago I made a promise to myself and to “Baby” Tai that I would never give up.

I’ve learned plenty of lessons along my journey, but the one that most sticks out in my head is (as cliché as it sounds) to always stay true to myself- and to never fold under pressure.

I would love for the world to know that my journey is just beginning.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d be remised if I didn’t shout out my longtime mentor and friend, Jennifer Le. I got my first taste of the music industry working as Jen’s assistant. At the time, I was a shy, apprehensive, and young girl- but somehow someway Jen seen the potential in me. Still to this day, Jen inspires me and pushes me to be the best version of myself. She has truly been a guiding light not only in my career but in my life. Thank you, Jen. For always having my back, looking out for me, and being the best mentor a girl could have.

Website: hot97.com

Instagram: @dyetai

Linkedin: Linkedin.com/in/taiperkins

Twitter: @dyetaai

Facebook: Tai Perkins

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