We recently connected with L.A. Wade and have shared our conversation below.
Hi L.A., thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk about innovation. What’s the most innovative thing you’ve done in your career?
Innovation has indeed been a crucial part of my journey, not only for my personal growth but also for the success of my various projects and initiatives. One of the most significant innovations I’ve undertaken was the creation of The Wine Down, a women’s networking group designed to highlight a woman’s specialization and build an event around it. This approach has fostered a supportive community where women can connect, share, and grow together, turning networking into an engaging and meaningful experience.
Another example is my venture into the world of podcasting with The Writer’s Block Podcast. Recognizing the need for a platform that combines discussions on creativity and mental health, I developed a podcast that explores the challenges and triumphs of creative individuals, providing insights and support to listeners who might be facing similar issues. This innovative approach to content has not only expanded my audience but has also created a valuable resource for creatives struggling with mental health.
Additionally, my work on the TV series based on my short film “Thirsty AF” and the short documentary “A SMALL Book” has been a groundbreaking step in bringing important stories to the screen. These projects, which will premiere at the Pan African Film Festival, focus on themes that are often overlooked, providing fresh and authentic perspectives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Lastly, my dedication to mental health advocacy, especially for Black men and boys, has led to the creation of targeted strategies and events that address their unique needs. My upcoming gig in Barbados on August 18th is a testament to the innovative and impactful work being done in this area.
Innovation, for me, has been about finding creative solutions to real-world problems, building supportive communities, and sharing powerful stories that inspire and uplift others. Through these efforts, I strive to make a lasting impact and foster growth and resilience in those I reach.
L.A., 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 multifaceted creative professional, mental health advocate, and entrepreneur. My journey into the creative and mental health fields has been shaped by my diverse experiences and a deep passion for storytelling and empowerment. My career began with a strong foundation in education, earning an M.Ed. from the University of Toronto. This educational background has been instrumental in shaping my approach to empowering others to find their voice and share their stories creatively. My early experiences as a reality housewife on the award-winning “Naija Wives of Toronto” gave me unique insights into the power of personal narratives and the impact of media.
I provide a range of creative works and services. I have authored two critically acclaimed books, “The Adventures of a Recovering Sex Addict Vol. 1 – Married Men and F*** Boys” and “Vol. 2 – Friends with Benefits but Mostly Liabilities.” I am currently working on the third volume, “Optical Delusions,” which I hope to release later this year. My short film “Thirsty AF” has been adapted into a TV series, and my partner and I directed a short documentary, “A SMALL Book,” both premiering on August 17th at the Pan African Film Festival in Toronto. Additionally, I host “The Writer’s Block Podcast,” a platform that explores the intersections of creativity, mental health, and personal growth. The first episode was released on July 25th.
Beyond writing and filmmaking, I conduct writing webinars and workshops aimed at helping individuals articulate their stories and enhance their creative skills. I also founded The Wine Down, a women’s networking group that highlights a woman’s specialization and builds events around it. This initiative fosters a supportive community for women to connect, share, and grow. I am deeply involved in mental health advocacy, particularly focusing on Black men and boys. I strategize and organize events, with my next gig in Barbados on August 18th.
Through my various initiatives, I address several key issues: helping individuals find their voice and share their unique stories, providing support and strategies for mental health, particularly for marginalized communities, and creating spaces for women to connect, share resources, and grow both personally and professionally. What sets me apart is my holistic approach to storytelling and empowerment. I draw from my personal experiences, educational background, and professional journey to create impactful and authentic narratives. My work spans multiple mediums—books, films, podcasts, webinars, and networking events—allowing me to reach and engage with a diverse audience.
I am incredibly proud of the positive impact my work has had on individuals and communities. Being recognized as a mental health advocate and empowering women through The Wine Down are among my most cherished achievements. Additionally, the success of my books and the anticipation surrounding the premiere of my films are significant milestones in my career. For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and a deep commitment to mental health and storytelling. I am dedicated to creating spaces where individuals can share their stories, find support, and grow both personally and professionally. Whether through my books, films, podcasts, or events, my goal is to inspire, uplift, and connect with my audience in meaningful ways.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey and work. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact through my creative and advocacy efforts.
We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.
I first connected with my partner, Tiku ‘Mello’ Fisher, in the most modern of ways: online. It was during the promotion of my first short narrative film, “Thirsty AF.” Tiku, a friend of the main character Sheronna Osbourne, stepped in to help with the birthday screening’s promotion. We had promised to meet in person at the event, and when the night arrived, it felt like we had known each other for years. Tiku’s supportive, humble, and gracious nature immediately struck a chord with me. Despite the busy night, I made sure to let him know we should connect again once things calmed down.
Two weeks later, we met up in an Ikea living room one afternoon. Our conversation flowed effortlessly, delving into topics like film, television, music, culture, and identity. We talked until the lights went out, and Ikea workers had to tell us the store was closing. During that meeting, we mapped out our dreams and plans for our community, the industry, and ourselves personally. It was clear we had a unique synergy, complementing each other perfectly. I was strong in areas where Tiku was still practicing and vice versa, which laid a solid foundation for our partnership.
Over the next six months, we began implementing the ideas we had discussed. Our first trial project was re-editing my short narrative into a shorter version for the American Black Film Festival. The collaboration revealed how well we worked together, with mutual respect for each other’s talents. Following this, we directed and produced a short documentary featuring the prolific Professor James Small called “a SMALL book,” which won Best Short Documentary at the Toronto Film Awards.
Our collaboration didn’t stop there. We started filming projects for others, creating websites, and launching “The Writer’s Block Podcast.” We also have plans to turn “Thirsty AF” into a TV series, continuously building our portfolio with projects aligning with our vision. Throughout all these endeavors, our communication remained strong, constantly checking in with one another, fostering a true partnership in both business and life.
I feel blessed and highly favored to have met and partnered with Tiku. Our relationship has been a source of inspiration and growth, not just for ourselves but for the generations we aim to uplift and inspire through our work. Together, we have become a powerful team, and I am eternally grateful for the journey we are on, building a legacy that will leave a lasting impact.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
The driving mission behind my creative journey is to normalize vulnerability, expand compassion, and empathy while uplifting and inspiring marginalized voices, particularly within the Black community. From my films and books to my podcasts and community initiatives, everything I do is rooted in the belief that storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation.
My work aims to break down societal barriers and challenge stereotypes, providing a platform for authentic, raw, and often untold stories. Through “Thirsty AF” and the upcoming TV series adaptation, I strive to shed light on complex personal and social issues, sparking conversations that can lead to real change.
With “The Writer’s Block Podcast,” my goal is to create a space where creatives can share their journeys, struggles, and triumphs, fostering a community of support and collaboration. My books, including “The Adventures of a Recovering Sex Addict” series, aim to confront taboo subjects head-on, promoting self-awareness, growth, and resilience.
In addition to my creative projects, my initiatives like the Wine Down women’s networking group and my mental health advocacy work focus on building supportive communities and providing resources for personal and professional development. I want to create environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Ultimately, my mission is to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves, pursue their passions, and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding world. Through storytelling, advocacy, and community-building, I hope to leave a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: ThisIsLAWade.com and TRFMedia.com
- Instagram: @ThisisLAWadeInc and @TheWritersBlock.Podcast and @TRFMedia
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisisLAWade/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisislawade/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/thisislawade
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisisLAWadeInc
Image Credits
Photos courtesy of TRFMEDIA.com