We were lucky to catch up with LaKia Starks recently and have shared our conversation below.
LaKia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
What do I think it takes to be successful? First, I definitely believe it depends on the person. For me, I defined my success as having financial freedom to take care of my family, waking up going to a job that makes me happy, peace of mind, having a healthy lifestyle and living life to my full potential.
Now, what did it take for ME to be successful? A lot of tears, sacrifices, and early mornings (literally).
It took me working jobs that I didn’t want to work and receiving constructive criticism. The criticism is what kept me really motivated. I had coworkers tell me, ” maybe you’re in the wrong business.” That particular unwanted advice is what pushed me even harder. Being in a positive work environment is necessary for growth and your mental health. If you’re not where you need to be mentally, it will impact your journey. I realized in order to become successful and the best version of myself was to… take care of myself, mentally. Once that happened , everything else aligned accordingly for my continued success.
And I say, “continued success” because although I’m successful…I’m just getting started.
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 background and context?
For those of you who are just now meeting me. Welcome!
I am an award-winning producer and communication expert who produces prominent newscasts, while maintaining journalistic excellence and integrity. At an early age I knew I wanted to be a voice for the voiceless. I knew my divine purpose was to educate, inspire and giveback.
I received her first shot at telling people stories in high school, I was on the school newspaper. After high school I went on to further my education at Troy University, obtaining my bachelor’s in broadcast journalism / public relations and master’s in strategic communications.
After college, I received my first TV job in Montgomery, AL at Alabama News Network. After working as a producer / entertainment reporter for two years… I took my talents to the Queen City. Man did I love Charlotte. I feel like Charlotte made me the woman I am today. I discovered who I was. When I moved there I was broke…and I mean BROKE! I worked overnight at the FOX 46, then when I got off i would go work at the outlets. I spent most of my time depressed, but I gained independence.
After Charlotte, I moved to Atlanta working for FOX 5. Now, here is where the fun began. I started hosting red carpets, movie screenings, attending the BET Awards. Moving to Atlanta really made me appreciate the entertainment lifestyle more. And realized there is no limit to your success. Yes, I have accomplished plenty, but there is so much more out there.
I’m currently a line producer for CNN / HLN in Atlanta. This is by far one of my biggest accomplishments, truly a dream come true.
I am a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and was awarded Troy University Hall School of Journalism & Communication, ‘Outstanding Alumna in Broadcast Journalism (2022).
When I’m not working full-time I’m hosting events, public speaking, volunteering to speak to high school students /future journalists about furthering their education, financial literacy and why maintaining your mental health is important.
I’m also a mother to my 3-year-old daughter Parker Reign.
My goal is teach online journalism classes and to continue being a pillar in the community and career field.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Wheww!
Being a mother to a toddler and working overnight. I’ve been doing this for three years and it doesn’t get easier. Some days I feel like I’m missing out on precious moments, then the other days, I know I’m doing what’s best for my daughter.
My job requires me to go to bed no later than 9pm, so that’s excellent for a toddler, because they should be in bed around 7:45pm anyway. However, working overnight has you drained throughout the day. Parker keeps me going, it is my responsibility to give her the life she deserves, so it requires me to be strong and keep paving the way.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I’m a producer for CNN/ HLN and the most creative aspect about my job is knowing that my work is being watched all around the world. I am worldwide, a Worldwide Producer for television news. My job requires me to be creative. I have to make sure I am telling stories in an engaging way to keep viewers coming back. It sounds very easy, but just think about having to tell a depressing story. It requires a lot of work…mentally and physically.
With that being said, knowing that I’m able to deliver the news across the world in a creative flow to keep viewers coming back to our network is very rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lakiastarks.com
- Instagram: lakia4real
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakia.starks
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUgFhqfqfDdkHsmV8oeOW3w
Image Credits
Jay Wilson Media