Conversations with the Inspiring Taylor Crenshaw

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Crenshaw.

Taylor, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; one of the most dangerous and segregated cities in America, according to recent studies. Despite my surroundings, I was always a vibrant, artistic and creative scholar who had big dreams and a strong will to help others. I was fortunate enough to attend one of the top-ranked high schools in the Midwest, which gave me the opportunity to build diverse relationships, learn about different cultures and experience new things outside of my neighborhood.

During my senior year of high school, I was inspired by my mother to attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). She spoke highly of her experience at Morris Brown College. I also visited Clark Atlanta University (CAU) and realized there was no other place I wanted to be. In 2012, I graduated high school and moved to Atlanta, where I began a life-changing journey. It was the best decision of my life.

Throughout my matriculation at CAU, I studied Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations. After graduation, I navigated my way through various industries, which has led me to where I am today.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was never a smooth road, but the journey and every experience has been worth it thus far. The average person would resent their hometown and violent environment, but I’ve always loved and appreciated the motivation it gave me. It has made me who I am today and given me the ability to be both book and street smart. It also inspired me to want better for my life, family, and community, versus falling victim to circumstances.

My move to Atlanta was a tough transition. As an only child, it was extremely difficult for me to adjust and the culture shock often left me crying in my dorm at night, begging my mom to let me transfer back home. I was out of my comfort zone. I eventually adjusted to living on my own and learned to love Atlanta, but the obstacles didn’t stop.

After college graduation, I struggled with depression and anxiety severely. The transition from college to adulthood threw off my entire trajectory. I had entered the real world and although I was prepared, I was terrified. I was barely making ends meet with three jobs and I wanted to move back home to Milwaukee, where I was comfortable and had my family to lean on. My mom was supportive of my decision, but she strongly encouraged me to stay in Atlanta. I’m glad I did because a few months later I received my first job in my field, at the top-ranked agency.

My biggest advice for women who are starting their journey would be to ask for help and utilize your resources. Never be too prideful or scared to reach out in a time of need. There are so many people who are willing to lend a helping hand, including your family, friends and professional network. Take my story for example; imagine if I would’ve stayed silent and moved back to Milwaukee after graduation without asking for help first. I wouldn’t be where I am today or giving this interview.

Another piece of advice would be to stop comparing your journey to others and stop looking at social media for validation. You will get the job, find a significant other, buy a house, start a business and be successful on your own timing. It’s not a race, it’s a marathon. Your main focus should be staying in your lane and uplifting others along the way.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently a marketing specialist at Delta Vacations, which is the official vacation provider for Delta Airlines. On a day to day, I handle all things marketing. I’m fortunate to touch many parts of the business within my role, which includes social media, corporate communications, sponsorship, and advertising, just to name a few. I love my job and team. I’m learning so much about the business, the travel industry and myself as a professional.

While I love my career and company, working for someone else is not my end goal. Ultimately, I want to utilize the knowledge and skills I’m obtaining to become an entrepreneur. I aspire to start my own businesses and grow them on a larger scale. Yes, I said businesses because I plan to have more than one and multiple streams of income. My goal is to break the generational curse of poverty within my family and community.

Most people know me as a high-energy intellectual, who is always the life of the party and spreading positive vibes. I’m also known for my advocacy of women’s empowerment and mental health. A year ago, I was inspired to start a brand dedicated to that. Personally, I noticed that there were limited mental health resources I had access to. With some of the traumatic experiences and struggles I’ve dealt with, I often felt like I had no one to talk or relate to. I even tried therapy, but the expenses became a burden. I had no other choice but to lean on my friends and women I trusted. This sparked the idea to create a support group that offers a non-judgmental outlet for women who may also lack these resources. Mental health is often ignored in our community. I believe it is important to reassure other women that they are not alone and uplift them through life’s most challenging moments. The goal is to support all women, not just the ones I know.

I’m currently rebranding, so the name and website isn’t finalized, but I host monthly events that provide women with a safe space to vent, fellowship and network. These events include but are not limited to, empowerment brunches, yoga sessions, journaling exercises, and group therapy discussions. I try to switch up the events and locations to provide variety to these women. I plan to extend my platform to men as well in the future. I’m excited to see my brand expand!

Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I have a lot of advice regarding mentorship and networking, as I take pride in both. I believe they are essential for your success. Your network is your net worth. It’s not about who you know, but about who knows you and can attest to your assets when necessary.

Mentorship is similar to dating in a sense – you have to date in order to see if you’re compatible for one another. The key to finding a good mentor is building a genuine and authentic relationship first. When you’re interested in a specific individual, don’t expect or ask for mentorship immediately. This comes off as desperate. Meet up, grab a coffee and get to know your perspective mentor. Most importantly, find individuals who are already where you want to be or who align with your path. Join networking groups and get active in the community. Some of my greatest mentors came from these methods.

Keep in mind that there is such thing as peer-to-peer mentors, which can be beneficial as well. Also, don’t limit yourself on the number of mentors you have. It’s perfectly fine to have multiple mentors in different industries and areas of expertise. This will help you become well-rounded and wiser. Ultimately, don’t be afraid, don’t burn bridges, and step out of your comfort zone!

What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
One of the biggest barriers is living in a male dominant society where women are often overshadowed. From income to racial inequality, society has proven it does not value women. Women have to work ten times as hard to prove their worth in all spaces. Now more than ever, women are beginning to reclaim their time and voice. However, we still have a long way to go regarding the rest of society.

I also feel that women can be their own barriers at times. We have to stop limiting ourselves, accepting the bare minimum and minimizing our ideas based on society. We have a seat at the table, and we are just as qualified as our male counterparts. Know your power and utilize it. It is very possible to be both a woman and a strong leader. Beyoncé, Michelle Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Maxine Waters, and Angela Rye are all prime examples. These women range in age, marital status, sexual orientation, and race. Also, realize that you don’t have to be a celebrity to be a leader. Start where you are and don’t allow barriers to stop you, instead allow them to be steppingstones to get to the next level.

Contact Info:

• Instagram:@TayCrenshaw
• Twitter:@TayCrenshaw
• Other:@TayCrenshaw on Apple Music – your favorite playlist curator!

Image Credit:
James D. Love, Regine Torrance

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