We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nicholas Tanner a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nicholas , appreciate you 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?
Yes, I run Tanner Marketing, but I also work as a truck driver during the day. It’s a unique balance—building a business while holding down a regular job, and it gives me a perspective on both worlds.
Being a business owner is deeply fulfilling because it allows me to create something of my own, make decisions, and leave a legacy. But there are days when I think about the simplicity of just having a regular job without the added responsibilities of running a business.
One moment stands out vividly. It was a long day on the road. I had just finished a 10-hour shift driving through bad weather, and when I parked for the night, my phone was flooded with emails and messages about a last-minute client crisis. I was exhausted, my head ached, and I hadn’t eaten properly all day. Sitting in the truck, I caught myself wondering, What if I just focused on driving? Life would be simpler—no late-night calls, no constant strategizing, just a steady paycheck and a predictable routine.
But as I thought it through, I realized that simplicity comes at a cost. The creative freedom ,the ability to help others through my company , and the joy of watching a client succeed because of my efforts—those are things I wouldn’t trade for the world. That moment reaffirmed why I keep going.
Juggling both roles isn’t easy, but it’s rewarding. My regular job keeps me grounded, while Tanner Marketing lets me dream bigger. The combination drives me to work harder and stay focused on building something that matters.
Nicholas , 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?
That Nicholas R. Tanner, a dynamic entrepreneur from Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the visionary founder of Tanner Marketing, established in July 2015. Under his leadership, the firm has emerged as a powerhouse in entertainment marketing and management, delivering innovative solutions to a diverse clientele.
How I Got Into My Industry:
My journey into the entertainment industry began with an unwavering passion for creativity, storytelling, and people. I transitioned from a nearly decade-long career in hospitality—working for prestigious brands like Hilton and IHG—into freelance management. My first big break was managing Ashley Jackson, famously known as Ms. Minnie from Little Women of Atlanta. This role allowed me to blend strategic planning with personal branding, a skillset I honed while revitalizing the career of Ashley Nicole, a former cast member of Love and Hip Hop Atlanta. These experiences solidified my calling in entertainment and marketing.
What Tanner Marketing Offers:
At Tanner Marketing, we specialize in talent management, branding, and innovative marketing strategies. Our services include personal brand development, event marketing, creative direction, content creation, and public relations. We cater to a wide range of clients, from reality TV stars and athletes to creative professionals like photographers and hairstylists.
The Problems We Solve:
Our primary goal is to bridge the gap between raw talent and sustainable success. We help our clients navigate the complexities of branding, ensuring their image and messaging resonate with their target audiences. Whether it’s launching a product, expanding reach, or reimagining a personal brand, we provide tailored strategies that yield measurable results.
What Sets Tanner Marketing Apart:
What truly sets us apart is our motto: “Young, Fresh, Innovative, and of the Now.” We pride ourselves on staying ahead of industry trends, employing cutting-edge tactics, and offering personalized attention to every client. Our approach is deeply collaborative, rooted in building relationships and creating opportunities that align with our clients’ long-term goals. Additionally, my background in business management, athletic discipline, and hospitality imbues our firm with a unique blend of professionalism and creativity.
Proudest Achievements:
One of my proudest achievements is the resilience and vision that fueled the creation of Tanner Marketing following the loss of both my parents. I’ve also had the privilege of working with incredible talents like former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, Tiffany Evans, Caesar from Black Ink Crew, and Sidney Starr of Gworls. Each success story reflects the hard work and trust that underpin everything we do.
Tomorrow’s Innovators – A Legacy in the Making:
Beyond Tanner Marketing, I’m incredibly passionate about Tomorrow’s Innovators, a nonprofit I am finalizing that will empower the youth with business, marketing, and content creation skills. The initiative embodies my commitment to giving back and nurturing the next generation of leaders, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
Key Takeaways for Potential Clients:
Tanner Marketing is not just a business—it’s a partnership. When you work with us, you gain a team that genuinely cares about your success and is willing to go the extra mile to make it happen. I’m most proud of the trust our clients place in us, knowing we deliver results while preserving their authenticity and vision.
Whether you’re looking to redefine your brand, grow your audience, or launch something extraordinary, Tanner Marketing is your ultimate partner. Through strategic thinking, innovative solutions, and a relentless work ethic, we transform visions into realities and set the standard for excellence in entertainment marketing.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
From 2017 to 2019, I experienced one of the toughest chapters of my life. After making a bad business decision that backfired, I lost everything—except my ambition, work ethic, and faith in God. During those years of homelessness, I endured many sleepless and hungry nights, lying awake and searching for a way out of my circumstances.
With unwavering determination and the strength God provided, I redirected my path in 2019 and got into the trucking industry. That decision became my foundation for rebuilding. Fast forward to January 2024, I had the honor of sitting down with Bun B of UGK in Houston. During our conversation, he told me something that stuck with me: “The only dreams that die are the ones you let go of.”
Now, as I head into 2025, I’m fueled by those words, my journey, and the momentum I’ve built. This chapter is proof that even in the darkest moments, faith, perseverance, and a willingness to pivot can lead to incredible transformations.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
At Tanner Marketing, our most effective strategy for growing our clientele is taking an innovative approach while fostering a collaborative growth journey with our clients. We prioritize educating them on various strategies, aligning with their dreams for their brand, and identifying what they hope to achieve. Much like life, business requires clear direction to navigate and excel, and we ensure our clients have the tools and vision to reach their goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tannermktg.com
- Instagram: @tannermarketing
- Facebook: Nicholas R Tanner
