Today we’d like to introduce you to Tala Shatara.
Hi Tala, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I always knew I wanted to do something big. Whether that be spark change, become a leader, or inspire others. As a young woman living in today’s world of social media, political tension, and mental health stigma, it was time to start soon.
Going through the motions of friendship, work, relationships, and more, I have had my fair share of disappointments. So many, that people wouldn’t even believe this is my real life. In 2020, I went through the toughest situation I have ever experienced. No, I didn’t lose a limb or a parent, I lost a life. A life I had been building for so long.
I finally was going to get what it seems like everyone else had–a happy ending. The boyfriend turn fiancé turns husband. The babies and the white picket fence. That was the plan! But with a mixture of alcoholism, narcissism, and so much more, that and so much more came falling down. I lived in Nashville and while I could’ve stayed, I could not bear to live within a mile from a life I had just lost.
During this time, a global pandemic had had its’ way with the world. I eventually got laid off and was unable to support myself financially, emotionally, and mentally. Within a week I lost my boyfriend, home, job, community, church, city, and so much more.
At 25 years old, I will never have forgotten the moment I woke up in my childhood bed back in Knoxville, TN, and let reality sink in. The last 3 years were a blur and seemed like they didn’t even happen. From then on, I didn’t think I was going to make it out, but I remembered something.
This is the moment for that “something big.” If not now, then when would I be able to be the most creative person I could possibly be? I always wanted to write a book and knew if I did not do it now, I never would. Finding Plan B was then born! I knew I wanted to create something to make a reader laugh, feel loved, and validated. After hard work, blood, sweat, tears, sleepless nights, and a rocking launch party, I knew I finally did something BIG!
Shortly after, I went on channel 6 to promote my book as a local author. I saw there was an opening for the host position at the time, and thought “what the heck!?” My education and background were in broadcast journalism, and even though I didn’t have the most experience, I felt I was on a powerful streak and knew it was time to keep it going.
Ultimately, I GOT THE JOB! I would love to think that if it wasn’t for that stupid boy changing our plans, I would’ve never been introduced to the best plans that were waiting for me!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! My success was born out of pain, shame, madness, and even the will to not go on. However, I believe we are the most creative in those moments. Unfortunately, humor is found within the darkness.
Even though I decided to write my book, it did not become easier after that. I was entering an unknown world in which I did not even know where to start! Editing, publishing, grammar, contracts, legal, ethics, the list goes on and on!
Thank goodness I had a wonderful mentor and supportive friends and family because I was so close to throwing in the towel many times!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am super proud of all that I have accomplished.
I actually started out branding myself online as a blogger 6 years ago. I love to highlight my favorite things in the fashion, beauty, fitness, travel, and lifestyle world! With that, I have been able to work with brand names I would have never dreamed about working with. Some include American Airlines, Victoria’s Secret, Mercedes Benz, UberEats, Kroger, and more!
I then went on to study Journalism and Electronic Media at the University of Tennessee- Knoxville. Within the College of Communication and Information, I became well versed in journalism, PR, Advertising, and so much more.
With that, I have been a social media manager for various brands and have maintained content creating for myself, till this day! It has and will always remain a hobby rather than a job. With the experience behind and in front of the camera, I am now the host of the WATE Six On Your Side’s Lifestyle show Living East Tennessee!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
My bad luck turned into the greatest luck one could have!
I would like to think my life’s bad luck has created a domino effect in my life. If it wasn’t for my horrible job, I would have never met my boyfriend (at the time). If it wasn’t for him then I would not have written a book. And, if it wasn’t for the book, I wouldn’t have the best job in the whole world!
Bring on the bad luck! I can take it!
Pricing:
- The book is $19.95
Contact Info:
- Email: tshatara@wate.com
- Website: talashatara.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talashatara/
- Other: livingeasttennessee.com
