Meet Essie Faye Taylor | Servant Leader, Teacher, Author, Podcaster, Improviser

We had the good fortune of connecting with Essie Faye Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Essie Faye, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking is a natural part of life. Risk confronts us so very often–it’s present at every fork in the road. Every decision that we make has risks involved. I am a risk-taker. I am a person that takes a chance, in the face of fear. I love to try new things, different experiences, and challenging tasks. Risk-taking has been essential to my career path and creative growth.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a rather late bloomer. I am a professional turned artist. My art is my talent for singing, acting, writing, and sharing stories. What sets me apart from others is my authenticity and passion for my art. I try to share my art with the world with transparency, honesty, and in love. I am most proud of my boldness to pursue my art and share it with the world. I consider myself, not to have arrived at the pinnacle of my artistic career. I have a lot more growing to do. I got to where I am: a psalmist, improviser, podcaster, and self-published author by acknowledging God, taking risks, and trusting myself. No, it wasn’t easy–it is not easy. I’ve overcome challenges by believing in myself, and my purpose and continuing to forge ahead. If you do not quit, you will succeed; it is just a matter of time. One major lesson that I’ve learned along the way is that we need each other–your story can change lives when shared. Share your story of triumph. Someone is waiting for it–praying for it. It will set someone FREE. I want the world to know that I am a work in progress; my brand and my story are a work in progress. I’m not perfect; my life is not perfect. I’m just as human as you. I started by taking one step, then another; so can you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend was visiting the area, we’d check out a few places in the area. I’m totally the friend that loves to catch up and I’m an early riser.
We’d start the day off with some activity–biking the drive. I love to bike and take in the view of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s so serene and tranquil.
Afterward, we’d grab breakfast at Chicago’s Chicken and Waffles.
We’d then hit Chicago’s Mag Mile for shopping and people-watching. Snagging a bag of popcorn at Garrett’s is mandatory.
We’d finish our night with a stop at the Promontory for live music and great food. The ambiance is relaxing and it’s in the heart of Hyde Park.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My inner circle of family and friends deserves much of the credit for my success. My parents, Troy L.Young Sr. and Lelia M. Young laid the foundation for so much of what I’ve become. They taught me and showed me what love looks and feels like. They nurtured my work ethic and have encouraged my dreams, ever since I can remember. As a tween, my parents put me in an all-boy basketball league because they believed in my ability. At a time when girl basketball leagues were not largely founded or funded, they encouraged me to follow my dream to play basketball. And they showed their support. It was their belief and action that I’ve never forgotten. It taught me that I could dream regardless of my gender & race in a world that might limit my dreams, based on both.

Website: www.essiefayetaylor.com

Instagram: @the_essie_faye

Linkedin: Esther Taylor

Facebook: Esther Taylor

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Taylormade Productions Inc.