Latasha James- Owner of digital marketing agency, podcast host, + content creator

Our first interview was with local Detroit entrepreneur Latasha James. She's the owner of the digital marketing studio JAMES + PARK, a content creator, and a coach. 

We talked with her about how she got started, what she loves about Detroit, and what inspired her to strike out on her own. 

Read on for some great tips and resources from Latasha. You can find Latasha on instagram @thelatashajames, on her site https://latashajames.com, or on Youtube.

Tell me a little bit about your background. Did you grow up in Michigan? What was that like?

I’m a freelance marketer and I own James and Park. I’m also a content creator, I create digital content on Youtube. I’ve been in Detroit for 5 years and I’m originally from Kalamazoo. I love to eat and travel. 

How did you get started in your field?

I was a poli sci and film major, originally I wanted to work in the news in college, but then I started researching career prospects- there wasn’t much money and I didn’t want to move far.

I started experimenting with making videos online and then people reached out to do freelance work. I started on [the freelance site] Upwork during college

Being a film major definitely helped. Social media is video now, I feel very confident knowing how to make videos. I definitely use what I learned in school everyday. Even poli sci really helps for cultural understanding, it helps to be able to relate to people on a deeper level. Also researching and having to write massive 30 page papers helped prepare me, so now researching comes easily. 

Why did you decide to strike out on your own? 

I started a freelance side gig in college. I always side hustled. I honestly was kind of bored. I didn't know many people at first. There wasn’t really one moment, I never really knew. The stars just kind of aligned for me...

I really liked my job and I’m glad that I worked those jobs. I don’t think that I would be as successful had I not had that experience. I could take time off, take my ideal clients, instead of taking projects out of desperation. I was able to register my business, pay for training. 

What inspired you to start coaching? 

I had this Youtube channel (tips on advice for business owners), and I started to get really in depth questions. So I started a course... and then really out of that course people were asking for it. I was really hesitant to do that, the imposter syndrome struck. I was hesitant to wear that label, seeing the results really helped.

What challenges do you think are unique to women in your field? 

Paygap just like in every industry. I honestly feel like I’ve been able to earn what I’m worth, I’ve definitely had to say no and stand up for myself. If you don’t have that thick skin it’s tough.

I’ve heard disparaging comments about women in this industry… There was a male content creator who was saying “If I was a girl on the internet, I would have no reason to not make a shit ton of money.” Basically saying that people will watch anyone attractive. I want to look presentable but I’m not there to be some sex symbol, I’ve definitely experienced harassment as well. I definitely think there’s a toxic culture surrounding the content community. 

How does Detroit inspire you? What are some things you wish you could change?

The culture of this city has really inspired me. All of the different kinds of people and things to do. There are always things to do. For any creative person it’s a really cool place to be. 

But the city has lost a lot of its culture. It doesn’t feel like what it felt like two years ago. A lot has changed with gentrification. I feel like a lot of people are getting left out. 

What does success mean to you? 

Balance…  I’ve also been really happy when I’ve made little money (and vice versa). As long as I’m able to take care of myself and I am able to do things, but money is not the only thing. 

What are your goals for 2020? 

I’m looking to grow my content production… I feel like I could do so much more and provide so much more value, especially on Youtube. I also want to grow my Youtube business, I also just want to keep doing that. I want to continue to try different things (with coaching).

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Before you publish any blog ask yourself- how is this helping someone? Even if it’s something fun. I’ve kind of used that behind every entertaining, educational, helpful etc. I think that’s what helps guide me. People want a connection, it’s all about connection now.

If you could go back in time and give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

I would honestly say “relax”. I’ve always been kind of a workaholic, a blessing and a curse. It’s definitely helped me be successful, but I definitely fall out of balance. Take a day off, you’ve gotten through all of your hardest days. 

What’s a helpful book or resource? 

Super quick easy read, “Steal Like an Artist.” It’s relevant not just to artists, but also for business owners, and creatives. 

He totally inspired my course creation. My favorite podcast is “Online marketing made easy” with Amy Porterfield. 

Who’s been the most inspiring female influence in your life? 

My mom, just because she is the definition of hard work and being a badass woman. She raised my sister and me by herself; she’s also incredibly supportive. That’s where I got my work ethic. Also, seeing how I’ve inspired her has been great and seeing her now want to do her own thing as well. 

For someone just starting out in marketing, which resource of yours would you recommend they start with? 

If you’re looking to start a business head over to latashajames.com/course. 

For anyone else, who just wants some inspiration, check out my youtube channel.