We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rhianna Mack. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rhianna below.

Hi Rhianna, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

The hustle was real. As a self-employed performer, teaching artist, freelance graphic designer, clothing brand owner, and occasional venue host for exclusive events, my days were a glorious whirlwind of chaos. Don’t get me wrong, the freedom and variety were truly exhilarating. I thrived on the constant change, the ability to set my own schedule, and the satisfaction of building my own brands. But let’s be honest, it was also a never-ending juggle. One delayed booking, or late client payment could throw my entire financial month into disarray, and the lines between work and life would be frustratingly blurred.

Then came the call. It was from an artist friend who, to my surprise, was working for a “proper” company. Now, I prided myself on the independence of freelancing. The idea of a corporate job conjured up images of fluorescent lights, soul-crushing commutes, and a boss hovering over my shoulder. But my friend sounded genuinely enthusiastic. He wasn’t peddling some corporate nightmare; he was raving about a company that seemed like a dream to work for.

Flexibility? Work from home? In 2017? This was farfetched (or at least considered rare to my freelancer mind).

Passion Project, Paycheck Included: They needed a graphic designer – something I already loved doing! But this time, with a steady paycheck (hallelujah!), and designing for some notable & luxury brands!

Community, Not Cubicles: Wellness programs, team-building activities, and a genuine focus on employee well-being? Sign. Me. Up.

The “pros” list was growing longer by the minute. My initial skepticism gave way to genuine intrigue. After all, what freelancer wouldn’t be tempted by a guaranteed income and a work environment that prioritized employee happiness? So, I swallowed my pride and agreed to interview.

Fast forward to today, and here I am, nearly seven years later, still happily employed by that same company. Fully remote. The time has flown by in a blur of creative projects, supportive colleagues, and a healthy work-life balance I never thought possible.

The freedom to still have creative expression and the thrill of working with great clients has been undeniably rewarding. Plus, the stability and sense of community I’ve found at this company have been incredibly valuable.

This experience has completely reshaped my perspective on “going corporate.” It turns out, a corporate job doesn’t have to be a soul-sucking experience. In fact, with the right company culture, it can be a launchpad for professional growth, personal well-being, and even continued creative exploration.

So, to all my fellow creative hustlers out there, don’t be afraid to keep an open mind. The corporate world might just surprise you, offering the kind of stability, support, and perks that can truly elevate your career and your life.

Rhianna, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Rhianna (aka The Real Rhianna Mack) and I am a “down-to-earth, but out-of-this-world” ™ creative, originally from Louisiana. Some might say I wear many hats – or should I say berets, because hey, artist here!

As a kid, I entertained myself with different crafts, drawing projects, being silly in front of the mirror and such. But I feel like my artistic journey officially started in Dallas at the Art Institute where I got my degree in computer animation. Yet, the stage lights were too much to resist. So upon graduation, I surprised my teachers by enrolling in acting school next (they thought I was there to level up my animation skills!).

Exploring different creative outlets has always been my passion. Performing took me on an incredible ride, from regional gigs and voiceover work, to stages all across the country. Now, I feed my creative interests more so as a graphic designer, as a teaching artist with the City of Dallas, and as a technical director for a popular relationship podcast.

When I’m not inspiring the next generation of young artists, I channel my creative energy into helping my friends with their branding projects, or my clothing brand – True Artist Brand.

I am proud of my work ethic and attention to detail when it comes to working with others. Whether I’m designing marketing collateral for a client, or teaching a lively group of kiddos, or packaging a purchase for a True Artist Brand customer – I like to provide an easy & fun, yet professional experience for everyone.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The truth is, my best advertising comes straight from happy clients! Word of mouth. I have to admit that while I’m better at talking up other people’s work, I am still a work in progress when it comes to personal promotion. So it means the world when new clients have such a great experience they spread the word. That is priceless marketing for sure!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I operate behind the scenes, planting seeds of imaginative possibility. Witnessing those seeds blossom into vibrant artistic expression is what truly fuels me. I’m here to infuse creative confidence as individuals take ownership of their personal pursuits, pushing boundaries and achieving their full potential.

Contact Info:

• Website: TrueArtistBrand.com
• Instagram: @trueartistrhimack, @trueartistbrand
• Other: soon to come – FameinaBag.com

Image Credits
Artavius Cash Rhianna Mack Laterras R. Whitfield Whitney Davis