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

Erica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

My parents did so much right. I cannot say this enough.

I was fortunate to have grown up in a household with a mom and dad who spared no expense when it came to my extracurricular activities.

I played the piano and the alto saxophone, I’m classically trained in tap, jazz and ballet, was a baton twirler and was a majorette at the University of Georgia. I competed in pageants, oratorical contests, sang in the church choir and was a musical theatre kid. I took tennis lessons. I ran track in high school. And despite having a full calendar for the entirety of my childhood, I was at the top of my class.

Only God knows how we juggled it all. But we did. And I’m so grateful.

Ultimately, my parents’ commitment to exposing me to every opportunity imaginable (or at least the ones they could afford) had an immeasurable impact on my life and on my career. Excelling in these spaces helped me build my confidence and self-esteem. I learned how to set and exceed goals, I learned invaluable lessons about rejection and how to bounce back from setbacks. Resilience. Undoubtedly, I learned resilience. I also gained an appreciation for making lifelong friends from all different backgrounds.

All of this has been integral to my success. It shaped me into a multifaceted go-getter who genuinely believed and still believes that I can pursue any and all of my passions.

Why would I set parameters on my dreams? No thank you. There’s no limit. Teaching me these values was something my parents definitely got right.

Erica, 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?

I am a sports journalist, sports betting analyst and content creator. I’ve worked in sports and in sports betting for more than 10 years.

And pursuing a career in sports was a natural pivot for me after college.

I was an Atlanta Falcons Cheerleader, twirled as a majorette in the University of Georgia’s Redcoat Marching Band and was selected as a captain and a choreographer for UGA’s Dance Dawgs basketball dance team. I have vivid memories of tagging along with my daddy at our town’s sporting events when I was a little girl.

So when it comes to sports — from the storylines to the strategy, from motorsports to football — I’ve been fully invested in any and everything sports offers for most of my life.

But here’s this: I originally moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment — which I did wholeheartedly and had some success. But while I was booking and appearing in national commercials, I was simultaneously booking work as an in-studio sports journalist and as a writer.

Eventually, I pivoted again. I decided to focus all my energy into my sports career. However, the betting and sports gambling part came a little later, courtesy of my favorite uncle.

My Uncle James (God rest his soul) loved spending the day (and a few dollars) watching the horses at the track or wagering with his friends on the weekend’s sporting events. And when I’d brag to him about whatever latest win my Georgia Bulldogs had managed to pull off, he’d say, “I don’t care if they won. Did they cover?!” And for folks unfamiliar with the terminology, by “cover,” he meant cover the point spread.

I consider that my jumping off point into sports betting.

One main thing I’d like people to know about me is that I’m not a professional gambler. I’m a sports journalist who analyzes and writes about betting trends and creates related content. And a huge part of my brand is educating and informing people about the basics of sports betting in a non-intimidating way that’s fun and engaging.

In the midst of this betting boom, I take pride in creating content that helps casual fans learn the ropes of this nuanced world while finding responsible ways to spend a few bucks here and there.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

When I look back at the content I’ve imagined and ultimately brought to life — whether on camera or in published writing — I always feel a sense of reward when I reflect on my growth. Looking back at how far I’ve come really makes me proud.

So many of us have this idea — this complex, if you will — that our creations have to be fully buttoned-up, damn-near perfect versions before we share it with others. And that’s so, so far from the truth.

Here’s the real truth: Being receptive to critiques and criticism from strangers and friends (using discernment, of course), tearing it all down and building it again and learning to be still in discomfort are some of the building blocks to getting it “right.”

And really, getting it “right” is subjective because if we’re continually evolving as creators, is it ever really “right?”

I can’t lie. Sometimes, I look back at my early reels or read content I wrote way back when, and I cringe. But then I smile when I remember where I am today. And then I grin even bigger because in X years from now, I’ll be an even more dynamic version of me.

Trusting that is the ultimate reward.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Now that I have mentors of my own and also actively mentor several professionals and creatives, I can say earnestly that I wish I’d invested more into this part of my journey earlier on.

I wish someone had literally grabbed my hand, looked me square in the eyes and said “find a mentor. NOW!” If only I’d known.

Honestly, I cannot quantify how instrumental my mentors have been in shaping my career, as well as some aspects of my personal life. They’ve encouraged me to thrive outside my comfort zone. They’ve connected me with decision makers who’ve in turn helped elevate my career. They’ve listened to me, laughed with me, cheered for me and have spoken my names in important rooms.

In addition to being mentored by some extraordinary folks, I also dedicate my time by serving as a mentor to others. And being on the other side is just as fulfilling.

My mentees inspire me, they help me stay connected to how Gen Z navigates the world. And through our interactions and conversations, I often find myself saying, “Erica, listen to your own advice.”

It’s glorious.

So if no one has held YOUR hand and looked you square in your eyes and said, “get a mentor … NOW,” hear me when I say…do it!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ericareneedavis.com
• Instagram: @EricaReneeD
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericareneedavis/
• Twitter: @EricaReneeD

Image Credits

Photographer for professional photos:
Credit Leta Taylor