Dr. Tariana V. Little: Social Impact Storytelling for Change

In this episode, Mikki is joined by Dr. Tariana V. Little, CEO and co-founder of EmVision Productions, an award-winning Social Impact Storytelling™ agency. Tariana opens up about how she weaves science, storytelling, and justice into what she calls intentional creativity for social change. Their conversation explores Tariana’s journey as a proud queer, mixed-race, first-generation college graduate and how her lived experiences shaped her mission to elevate marginalized voices through storytelling. She reflects on pivotal moments—from bus rides as a METCO student to building EmVision alongside her partner Jonas—that taught her resilience, vision, and the power of community. The origin story of EmVision Productions and how a Craigslist experiment proved the business was viable  How the METCO program and lived inequities informed her passion for justice and representation  The personal practice of vision boarding as a tool for clarity, intention, and future-building  Why honoring her full name, Tariana Veronica Little, is an act of authenticity and legacy  Building resilience as a first-gen student and entrepreneur and creating pathways for others through scholarships and community storytelling  The importance of community, collaboration, and not being a “dream killer” in the creative economyWhy supporting someone’s dream—for free—is one of the greatest investments we can make in community “We didn’t know where we were going, but we trusted ourselves enough to take chances.” “Nothing becomes real until you put it in front of you or speak it out loud.” “Killing dreams is very expensive. Supporting dreams, on the other hand, is free.” Dr. Tariana V. Little is the CEO and co-founder of EmVision Productions, an award-winning Social Impact Storytelling™ agency. A Harvard-trained public health professional, philanthropist, and board member, she blends science, justice, and creativity to help visionary organizations. A proud queer, mixed-race, first-generation college graduate, Tariana channels her lived experience into every project she leads.  EmVision Productions is an award-winning Social Impact Storytelling™ agency helping visionary organizations to convey their value and values. They are a queer, minority, woman-owned and led small business. In 2025, EmVision was named the Massachusetts Microenterprise of the Year by the Small Business Administration and the Small Business of the Year in Cultural Excellence by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Creativity Connects with Mikki Wilson is a Creative Collective podcast that goes beyond the brand to explore the authentic journeys of women entrepreneurs. Hosted by Mikki Wilson, founder of Dot Connector Consulting. Produced by Randyll Collum for Peabody TV. Sponsored by Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry. Connect with Dr. Tariana V. Little Business:  EmVision Productions Website: emvisionproductions.com Instagram: @emvisionproductions.com Location: Boston, MA (by appointment)