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

Hi Nicole, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Over the years I was able to work with some amazing creatives and networks. With each experience I learned something new. Over time I began to see how those experiences changed me. I decided to finally take a chance at creating my own company. Although it was an intimidating idea and process, I had a vision. I love the concept of creative control. Taking an idea and seeing it come to life is so fulfilling. This goes both for my independent productions as well as the creative services my media company provides for others. Creating is my passion.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
While my company is still small, I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing companies and creatives. Having a company, especially in the entertainment and media realm can be daunting. There are highs, and lows constantly but I am proud of myself for facing those challenges head on, even when others may not understand or see my vision. You never know who is watching and who you may inspire or encourage with your journey. Working in film and television is an adventure to say the least. I am so grateful for my experiences because they pushed me to develop my own film & media projects which is something I have always wanted to do, but was intimidated with the idea. I am a horror nerd and I have always wanted to be a part of the industry. Being a woman of color and developing projects within the genre is important to me especially seeing that there aren’t many creators in the field that look like me. I have a variety of projects of different genre’s in development as well as streaming. The best way for me to pursue all of my creative endeavors was to create a company of my own. By having a media company I can showcase my creative talents while working on my projects as well as helping others in developing their own.

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.
Tacos and Margaritas! I could eat tacos everyday! I like to adventure to different spots and try to find spots that are better than the last. Pink taco is always fun. But other than my taco addiction I would say Unami Burger because who doesn’t love a glass of Prosecco and a burger. After we would hit a rooftop like the Stanford to vibe out. I also love a good drag show, so whoever is hosting a brunch, we are there! Sometimes I also like to just adventure and people watch. There is some amazing street art all over, and you never know what new spots you may discover while you adventure.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a few people that I can say influenced my journey. Ranadeb “Jello” Choudhury ( Chrewd Marketing & Promotions), Matt Smith (BET) Tom Joyce ( Internship Coordinator @ Columbia College) They all played a crucial part in me gaining experience in the entertainment industry and encouraging me to take the leap to explore my creative talents. And of course my mother. She is a constant light and always pushes and motivates me pursue my dreams.

Website: https://www.716.media

Instagram: @716.media, @ibnikkit

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-taylor-87131818/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/716.media

Other: https://instagram.com/ibnikkit

Image Credits
716 Media – Nicole Taylor (Self)

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