We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Madeline Smith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Madeline below.
Madeline, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
The story behind my mission is deeply rooted in the transformative events that unfolded during a crucial period in my life. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, I found myself thrust into the role of a matriarch at the tender age of 21. It was a time when life took an unexpected turn; I became a mother while still in college, and my world was further shaken by the sudden and untimely passing of my mother.
Overnight, I assumed the responsibility not only for my son but also for my two younger siblings, aged 8 and 10 at the time. In the face of adversity, I embraced my role as the anchor for my family, shouldering the care of my grandfather, siblings, and my own child. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of my journey as a caregiver and nurturer, shaping the foundations of my mission.
Amidst the challenges, my unwavering faith in God and my deep passion for music became the guiding lights in my life. Recognizing God’s hand in every aspect, I made the courageous decision to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia, when doors in Michigan began closing. I trusted that I would bloom wherever God planted me.
Within a year of my move, I found myself assisting individuals I had long admired in the music industry. This unexpected opportunity allowed me to combine my passion for music with my role as a caregiver. While I may take on various tasks, such as booking shows or designing websites, the essence of my mission lies in my commitment to prayer. I firmly believe that if God brings someone into my life, my most significant role is to uplift them in prayer. Behind the scenes, I provide spiritual support for individuals and their families, understanding that true success and fulfillment stem from a foundation of faith.
In essence, my mission is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of assuming unexpected responsibilities. It is a story of embracing challenges, finding purpose in adversity, and allowing God’s guidance to shape a path where I not only thrive but also extend my support and prayers to others in their journeys.
Madeline, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My journey into the entertainment industry has been nothing short of a divine odyssey. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, I found myself thrust into a pivotal role at the age of 21, becoming the matriarch of my family after the unexpected passing of my mother. Balancing college, raising my son, and caring for my younger siblings, I took on the responsibilities of providing for my family, including my grandfather.
Passion has always driven me, and my two greatest loves have been God and music. I believe in the power of prayer and its ability to support and uplift others. My move to Atlanta, Georgia, was guided by divine intervention as doors closed in Michigan. There, I flourished, quickly finding myself assisting influential figures in the music industry within a year.
My journey began at Bert’s, a renowned jazz bar in Detroit, where I managed the establishment. Little did I know, those experiences would plant seeds for a budding career. My entrance into entrepreneurship occurred when comedian Howie Bell approached me to design a flyer for his comedy show. This marked the beginning of my foray into the entertainment world.
Initially, I worked behind the scenes, supporting Octavia Bostick’s PR firm in Los Angeles. My focus was on administrative tasks, research, and design, always working to elevate her business without seeking recognition. Later, my college friend Kharisman Brown called on me to help with scouting locations and casting for his indie film in Detroit, unknowingly setting the stage for my future in the industry.
Moving to Atlanta in 2007 with minimal funds, I continued honing my skills. Late nights on Myspace and Twitter allowed me to develop expertise in coding and web design. One night, watching the Mo’Nique Show, I designed a website for co-host Rodney Perry, leading to a lasting working relationship that has spanned fifteen years.
Responding to a tweet from Donell Jones in need of assistance with YouTube, I became his publicist for a decade. The knowledge acquired through my work with Octavia served as the foundation for my own ventures in Atlanta. Today, twenty years later, I am the proud owner of a talent management agency, offering services ranging from booking shows to designing websites, managing social media accounts, and producing indie films and comedy specials.
My moniker, KingMaker, defines my role as a counselor and advisor to powerful individuals. Rooted in love and faith, I provide a safe space for my clients, offering a diverse range of services with a personal touch. I take pride in the enduring relationships I’ve built and the trust my clients place in me. My work is not just a career; it’s a calling, and I am honored to continue making a positive impact in the world of entertainment.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building my reputation within the entertainment industry has been a multifaceted journey, shaped by several key factors. Firstly, my unwavering commitment to professionalism and excellence has played a pivotal role. Whether managing a jazz bar in Detroit or assisting influential figures in their careers, I have consistently delivered high-quality work, exceeding expectations.
Another crucial element has been my dedication to serving others selflessly. From the early days of working behind the scenes for Octavia Bostick to assisting a friend with an indie film, my focus has always been on elevating others rather than seeking personal recognition. This genuine approach has allowed me to establish lasting and trusting relationships, contributing significantly to my reputation.
Networking has also been instrumental. Through chance encounters and responding to opportunities on platforms like Twitter, I’ve connected with key figures in the industry, such as Rodney Perry and Donell Jones. These connections not only opened doors but also served as testimonials to my capabilities, enhancing my credibility within the market.
Furthermore, my diverse skill set, ranging from web design and social media management to talent management and event production, has set me apart. Being able to offer a comprehensive suite of services has allowed me to meet the varied needs of my clients, earning their trust and solidifying my reputation as a versatile and reliable professional.
Ultimately, my faith and commitment to prayer have been the cornerstone of my approach. Operating with a foundation rooted in love and spirituality has not only guided my decision-making but has also resonated with clients who appreciate the authenticity and integrity that underpin my work. This, I believe, has been a key factor in building and maintaining a positive reputation within my market.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Absolutely, my favorite books, “The Alchemist,” “The Secret,” and the Bible, have played a profound role in shaping my management and entrepreneurial thinking. These resources have provided me with valuable insights that have influenced my philosophy in both personal and professional aspects of life.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho has been a guiding light in my entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and following the path that the universe unfolds. The book’s themes of destiny, personal legend, and the journey towards self-discovery resonate deeply with my approach to career and business.
“The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne has been instrumental in shaping my mindset towards the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction. This philosophy has been integral in my ability to envision success, set goals, and manifest positive outcomes in my management and entrepreneurial endeavors.
The Bible, a timeless source of wisdom, has provided a moral compass and spiritual foundation for my decision-making processes. Its teachings on integrity, compassion, and humility have influenced how I navigate the complexities of the business world and manage relationships with clients and colleagues.
While these books hold a special place in my heart, I’ve also drawn inspiration from various videos, essays, and other resources that align with these philosophies. The collective wisdom from these sources has shaped my approach to talent management and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, empathy, and a holistic view of success.
In addition to these literary influences, I’ve found motivation and insights from a diverse range of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and mentors through their speeches, interviews, and writings. The continuous pursuit of knowledge and the integration of these teachings into my professional life have been key drivers in my journey, allowing me to evolve as a manager and entrepreneur with a strong foundation in purpose-driven leadership.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.madconnects.online
- Instagram: SheTheKingMaker
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheresOnly1Mad/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeline-smith-a1642a26/
- Twitter: Threads (I don’t have twitter) @SheTheKingMaker
- Other: TikTok: SheTheKingMaker