We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alisha Allen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alisha below.
Alisha , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
It’s funny, the most meaningful project I have worked on to date was my very first TV Hosting gig. It was unpaid, unscripted and and a huge learning curve. That being said, it was the role that paved the way for my entire career as a host.
The Philadelphia Music, Dance and Modern Arts show aired locally in the Philadelphia market. Music was and is still a huge passion in my life. I remember the day I was casted as the show host! It was my first big win in this division of my career and even though it was unpaid, I felt like goddamn Ryan Seacrest.
PMDMA showcased rising artists in the field and I was fortunate enough to meet and interview some of the most talented people. This show allowed me to hone in on my craft and experiment. We divided our time between studio and on-location sets which was the best challenge as a new host. The entire crew showed me what it was like to flow in a beautiful, creative and sometimes chaotic set.
Philadelphia Music, Dance and Modern arts will always be my baby. It gave me my backbone and is the reason I have continued to thrive as an on-camera host.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I really didn’t want to serve an incredibly cheesy platter, but I guess I’m a little mouse who can’t resist. So here it is….I am incredibly grateful to be living my dream every single day. My road was far from linear and involved a multitude of detours. That being said, I am proud to say the fear of not living my dream was far worse than the potholes.
I started my career as an on-camera host about 12 years ago. At that time I was also working full-time in Public Relations and Event Coordination. It was a huge challenge trying to juggle both but the financial security of a job that crushed my soul kept me in a holding pattern for quite some time. I also think that time was necessary for building my brand and reassuring me of my true calling. We all need that struggle and it helps when it’s time to make that leap of faith. It was about 10 years ago when I woke up and decided it’s now or never. I left the corporate world and decided to fully commit to my passion as a host.
I can say these past 10 years have been magical, painful, challenging, exhilarating and beautiful. I wouldn’t change a single part of this journey. I have been blessed to work with hundreds of different brands and host wonderful live events. The best part is that I am able to work with brands that I truly support and want to recognize. My heart and soul are happy with the work I am able to produce. With the exception of puppy kisses and eating pizza, there is truly no greater feeling.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
Stop striving for perfection. It’s impossible and quite frankly…boring. Nobody want’s a robot! Allow yourself some grace. It’s okay to be a little messy and make mistakes.
When I was first started out on-camera, I wanted to be prefect all of the time. That mindset will kill creativity and fun. It’s way more authentic to just let loose a little and your audience will absolutely prefer that vibe.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Let’s face it, life can be hard and heavy. I want to create work that makes others feel lighter. I want people to smile, laugh and feel inspired. 
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.alishaallen.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alishaallenhost/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisha-allen-host-79324621/
Image Credits
Joe Kelly (Photographer) Sabrina Podolak (MUA)