Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth “Lili” Smith.
Hi Elizabeth “Lili”, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I pursued my career in Journalism at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and received my degree in Journalism & Electronic Media in 2014. Soon after, I established a position in promotions with 92.9 The Game sports radio station here in Atlanta, GA. I’ve always been an ambitious person and I love learning and taking on challenges so while working in promotions, I inquired in other areas of the radio station for more work. After gaining a couple of years of experience and asking the right questions, I sought an opportunity with its sister station, WVEE, The People’s Station V103. I began working as a board operator and took up an interest in producing. I was then afforded a promotion as the producer of The Midday Show at V103. Within my first few years of working in one of the top 10 market radio industries, I earned time on-air as a weekend personality – “LiLi,” media correspondent, and a daily contributor to articles online for Entercom at www.Radio.com. In 2020 I branched out in the industry as a freelance journalist and producer and was given the opportunity to serve as a producer for Big Tigger at the reimagined radio room during the 2020 BET Awards. From there many opportunities have come my way to interview and produce and I am more than grateful to those who see my potential and capabilities.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has absolutely not been a smooth road. Anyone who works in this industry especially radio knows that you are met with many challenges and obstacles but they all taught me very valuable lessons. It is a male-dominated industry and an industry where those who have been in the game for a long time stay there so success won’t come overnight. You have to be willing to do the hard work, work long hours for little pay and sacrifice a lot to get to the top. You must be open-minded, never take anything personal, willing to learn at all times and always put your best foot forward in order to survive in this industry. If you have the mindset that you’re the best and bet on yourself, others will see it too and the right people will help you achieve your goals and introduce you to the right opportunities.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As stated earlier, I am a freelance journalist/produce and I’m also a lifestyle/commercial model. I’ve had the privilege to serve as a host/moderator for BET Her, Cool Ass Black Women Brunch Speak Series, A3C, SXSW, Impact Church, Empire Record Label, Skky Level Media and more. I’ve also been blessed to work with esteemed networks such as BET, TV One, Fox Network, ESPN and OWN Network.
I am most proud of just moving from Nashville, TN at the age of 23 and making my mark here in Atlanta, GA. It took a lot of guts and I don’t regret it one bit.
I believe what sets me apart from others is my authentic nature to capture the truth and essence of the person I’m interviewing. I always want my interviews to feel more like a conversation with a good friends. I provide everyone a fair opportunity to tell their truth and let us into their world.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey so far is to trust the process and enjoy the journey. The saying “it’s not what you know but who you know” is very true. Your network is your net worth and its genuine relationships can take you very far.
Contact Info:
- Email: elizasmith23@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liztwotimes/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/_ElizabethLynne/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxLGDxLQJg4
Image Credits:
Chris Triplett Jordyn Ari
