A Conversation With host Floyd Marshall Jr. - EPS 136 - Tanisha Laverne Grant on The Black Carpet Experience

In the latest episode of A Conversation with Floyd Marshall Jr., award-winning entertainment journalist Tanisha Laverne Grant graced the podcast to discuss her illustrious career and the nuances of red carpet journalism. Dubbed “The Black Carpet Experience,” the interview offered valuable insights for filmmakers and independent creators striving to navigate the entertainment industry. A Trailblazer in Entertainment Journalism Tanisha Laverne Grant, a distinguished journalist and 2018 Black Women in Media honoree, has made her mark as a Hollywood insider. Covering major events like the Oscars, Emmys, and private screenings, Grant owns her brand, manages her content, and has established herself as a broadcast entrepreneur. During the interview, she shared her journey of forging her path in Hollywood by creating her own opportunities rather than relying on traditional media networks. “For those of us who don’t work for the big mainstream outlets, we’ve had to build our own,” Grant explained. Her words resonated as she emphasized the importance of owning one’s content and navigating an industry rife with gatekeeping. Owning Your Space in the Industry Grant provided an inside look into the application process for covering high-profile events such as the Oscars. As a journalist with over a decade of experience, she underscored the necessity of building relationships with publicists and maintaining a consistent body of work. For emerging filmmakers and creators, her advice was clear: take control of your narrative and leverage technology to bypass traditional gatekeepers. “Anyone with an outlet can apply,” she said, stressing the importance of having a robust portfolio and a professional brand presence. This insight opened doors for independent filmmakers and podcasters interested in using their platforms to engage with top-tier talent and events. Red Carpet Etiquette and Lessons Learned Sharing stories from her 11 years of red carpet experience, Grant highlighted the do’s and don’ts of working in high-stakes media environments. From nurturing relationships with publicists to delivering timely coverage, her tips were invaluable for filmmakers looking to network and build credibility in the entertainment world. She also addressed systemic challenges, including the positioning of Black journalists at events and the hesitancy of some Black talent to engage with Black-owned outlets. “We build you when no one else will,” Grant reminded her audience, urging creators to remember the power of collective support within their communities. Advocacy for Ownership and Legacy Grant’s entrepreneurial approach extends beyond journalism. She passionately discussed her strategies for financial sustainability, including sponsorship opportunities and brand partnerships. “The currency is in building your personal brand,” she affirmed, encouraging creators to value their work and advocate for fair compensation. A Call to Action for Filmmakers The conversation with Tanisha Laverne Grant served as both a masterclass and a rallying cry for filmmakers and independent creators. Her journey, filled with determination and innovation, exemplifies the importance of owning your content, cultivating relationships, and boldly asserting your place in the industry. Catch the full episode of “The Black Carpet Experience” with Tanisha Laverne Grant on YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn to gain more insights into her remarkable career and actionable advice for success. ============ Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ifapfilmcollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect With Floyd Marshall Jr: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/floydmarshalljr⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠