Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika E. Wade.
Hi Erika, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I got my start in producing by chance.
I’ve always considered myself a writer, and I do mean always. Since I’ve been able to speak, I’ve dictated stories and anecdotes to family members to record. That always came out in a confident and very self-assured way. Storytelling runs in my family. At gatherings and functions, we tell stories. It’s a part of our lifeblood.
Producing, however, fell into my lap because a professor at SCAD saw my natural skillsets and applied the correct language and knowledge behind it. Unfortunately, most BIPOC are really qualified for executive and development jobs in the entertainment industry, but they just don’t have the access to people that can help them learn the trade.
I am the founder and creator of Glenda’s Baby Productions. GB Pro, as we affectionately call it for short, bridges the gap between qualified individuals and the entertainment industry. There is huge inequity in BIPOC representation in the industry. I’m just doing my part to illuminate and dismantle that.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Nothing worthwhile is ever smooth. I’d like to think I took a very zigzagged and “peppered” path to where I am today. Some obvious struggles as an entrepreneur, creative, and executive are the perceptions of Black women in working environments. I am often sifted in between an “angry Black woman” or emotionally driven “female” long before I even show up to do the work. These struggles are not new, but they apply unnecessary weight and pressure that often gets misdiagnosed as Imposter Syndrome. I’m guilty of thinking I was the only thing standing in the way of my company’s growth. That’s a bit unfair and untrue. There are real and systemic structures in place that make it hard, but not impossible to lead as a Black woman. I might beat my head against them daily, but I do continue the fight.
In addition to that, it’s just difficult, in general, to advance in a very competitive industry like film, television, or theatre. Even with the many new role models and avenues into exposure, creating content independently and ethically is a feat in itself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Creatively, I wear many hats. I am a writer, a producer, and a performer. I’ve worn a few more hats than those, but I feel the most comfortable driving the wheel of creation. Performance is something that’s also felt a part of my nature, but I’m only now finding my groove in front of the camera.
Most recently, I just wrapped a stage production of my one-woman show, The Rhythm/Da Blues at The Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus. Although I’ve done the show in many cities now–Los Angeles, Savannah, New York–it was my first time on a much larger productional and professional level. It was also my first time producing a show. I learned a lot, but I’m also going to take some space and give myself some credit. It’s the most free I’ve felt as a performer in quite some time. The show was very well received, and I think I finally feel comfortable taking on that performer/actress title.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I live by spiritual health and manifestation. I start my day listening to meditation and mindfulness podcasts. I switch them up so often, but I always end in affirmations from people I admire.
Pricing:
- Official TRDB Show Shirt
- $30
Contact Info:
- Website: www.glendasbaby.com
- Instagram: erika__glendasbaby
- Facebook: Glenda’s Baby Productions
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHXJBFQA5IM
Image Credits:
Reginald Allen, Jamal Jones, Andres Poch,
