Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Lashley.

Hi Tanya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

I started my journey in advertising sales, spending many years as an advertising executive. I thrived in the industry, consistently ranking as a top performer, and I loved the impact I could make. I helped businesses grow from a single location to as many as 25, which was incredibly fulfilling. But deep down, I also had a passion for film and a deep love for my community. I knew there had to be a way to bring these three elements together—advertising, film, and community.

So, I decided to test my idea in my own town, Millburn/Short Hills. The response was overwhelming—we gained traction immediately and were featured on the news by just our second episode. That’s when I had a realization: traditional advertising wasn’t connecting with people because it was too focused on brands instead of consumers. The moment we shifted the narrative—telling authentic stories with real residents in real communities through an entertaining and scripted storyline—everything changed. That’s how this movement was born, and it has been growing ever since.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

I realized early on that becoming an entrepreneur requires a certain level of boldness—some might even call it a little crazy—because the journey is incredibly challenging. But when you push through, the rewards are immeasurable. Like anything new that starts to gain traction, there will always be naysayers and critics.

For me, the biggest challenge has been breaking through to networks and getting them to truly understand the vision. When you’re pioneering something that has never been done before, you constantly have to sell yourself—sometimes even to yourself. But you keep going. And then the results start rolling in, and suddenly, people are having those ‘aha’ moments.

We’ve been impressed with The Meet Me In Series, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Yes, I’m a filmmaker, but my background as a former advertising executive has shaped the way I tell stories. I like to call what we do ‘filmvertising’—a seamless fusion of film and advertising. We’ve bridged the gap between the two by creating something truly unique.

When we say Meet Me in X, we’re inviting audiences to join us in that state for a scripted storyline centered around its communities. But here’s the key difference: we don’t hire actors. Instead, we feature real residents and local businesses, weaving them into an authentic and engaging narrative. This approach not only spotlights the town but also drives traffic directly into these businesses—both from local residents who participate and from viewers who feel inspired to visit.

At its core, our series follows multiple families as they move into a new state, with each episode focusing on a different town. The result? A compelling, entertaining story that also fuels real economic impact—turning screens into doorways for local businesses.

What were you like growing up?

Sure, I was a clown—by that, I mean I’ve always loved making people laugh. I take it personally when people don’t laugh at my jokes! In middle school, when the year-end superlatives came around, most of my classmates were aiming for ‘Most Likely to Succeed’ or ‘Most Popular.’ Not me—I proudly set my sights on ‘Class Clown’ and was over the moon when I won.

Everyone told me I should be a comedian. If I didn’t go out, no one wanted to go because I was the entertainment. Comedy has always been my crutch, my safe space, and my weapon. But it wasn’t until later that I realized just how serious comedy is—and how much it would shape both my life and career.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.meetmeinnewjersey.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanyalashley4real?igsh=ZTZhd29xdmsxZW5i&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19PZ3H4czU/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-lashley/

Image Credits

Veronica Yankowski