Myki Angeline is the Founder and CEO of Rants of a Sick miK, and Rants & Raves. Myki’s ability to influence the masses is uncanny, making her a powerful influencer whose content and drive inspires thousands on a weekly basis. In addition, Myki is an accomplished Podcast Creator, Award Winning Columnist, and one of the most sought after speakers and trainers. As a respected journalist, with a passion for philanthropy and music, Myki has interviewed some of the largest, influential, pioneers in the music industry… and she is just getting started. Read our interview with the lovely Myki below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
After 28 years of working for other companies, I just had enough of making other people’s dreams come true. It was during a key conversation with a long time friend and business associate, when I realized that being an entrepreneur was the career change I needed. So, I changed career course from working towards owning a restaurant in a popular food franchise, to embarking on building my own brand in media mentoring.
Tell us about your business.Â
I took my years of experience in radio, journalism, red carpeting interviewing, and podcasting and focused it towards building my own business and brand in media mentoring. I am a regular speaker at San Francisco State University in Social Media Journalism. My next target audience will be private schools and community colleges in the greater Sacramento, California area in the Spring of 2017. Currently, I am developing my first webinar in social media journalism and podcasting which will launch over the next month.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
I am working with my media team to develop my first set of webinars scheduled for release this spring, which will include a free introductory promo.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.                Â
Recently, I was awarded Top Writer in Advice and LGBTQ on Medium.com, after writing only 4 blogs!
Where is your business based?
My business is based out of Sacramento, California.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
The first and most important step I made was to make the decision to go into business for myself; taking that risk. The next step was to build a team I could rely on which includes a media company, podcast producer, professional photographer, hair stylist, and fashion stylist – looking the part is as essential as being the part.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Still in the beginning stages, I have discovered that maintaining a consistent presence on social media is key to raising awareness for my business. Specifically by documenting my progress and posting my accomplishments and small successes. I am a firm believer in having integrity and respect for myself and others. By developing lasting relationships with current clients and collaborations, I continue to receive reliable referrals as well.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
At age 48, I definitely put my time management skills to good use when it comes to making the time to work on building my brand. I would say my biggest challenges are maintaining a clean home, caring for my disabled parents and special needs daughter who live at home with me while I stay consistent in creating content (blogging, quotes, videos, interviews, etc), scheduling conference calls/meetings, recording podcast episodes, and attending speaking engagements. It is exhausting, but definitely worth it!
How did you overcome these challenges?
Time management is KEY. Plus, I make personal time for rest, proper eating habits, and staying fit by regular trips to the gym, and walking my Siberian Husky named Kyla.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
While it is common to struggle during difficult situations, I always utilize my mentors and daily motivational videos to keep me motivated and on track with building my brand. Public figures like Tiana Burse, Brandon Burchard, and Gary Vaynercuk provide a plethora of pep talks and knowledge that remind me to embrace the grind and never give up!
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
Simply put, there is no one on earth like me – I focus on my key strengths and what makes me unique. Not only do I believe in what am selling, I LIVE what I am selling. What sets me apart from the rest is my genuine approach to people and situations, and ability to hone in on the individual needs of my clients. I relate closely to those I work with. I truly care, and that always shines through.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
The best advice I have received that was a big game changer, was to get out of my own way. As simple as it sounds, it is the hardest one to achieve. Once I was able to accomplish this, things did start to fall into place, and small successes started to happen.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
My best advice I can offer others who wish to become entrepreneurs is to always put in the work. Always make time. Even if it is from 6am-9am, then back at it from noon-2pm, then again from 7pm-1am. In the beginning, you will be the one running all of your social media content, sending off your emails, contacting potential clients. I emphasize the importance of being flexible with your hours, especially in the beginning stages if you’re maintaining a side hustle, raising children, or other factors are included. The commitment is never-ending, a 24/7 hustle. How quickly it can happen for you is how much you are willing to work for it. Do what you love, and the money will follow.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @myki.angeline
Twitter @myki.angeline
Facebook www.facebook.com/mykiangeline
Website www.manashow.com
Youtube www.youtube.com/c/mykiangeline
Soundcloud www.soundcloud.com/myk-angeline
LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/mykiangeline
Medium www.medium.com/@mykiangeline
Snapchat @rustyknows16
Email myki.angeline@gmail.com
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
I really enjoyed reading Lita Ford’s autobiography “Living Like A Runaway” to prep for my interview with the legendary Queen of Metal, which took place at the 2017 She Rocks Awards last January in Anaheim, CA. Lita is wonderful in person as well! She was so gracious and appreciated my time.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I continue to learn the exhausting task of successfully running all 9 of my social media outlets, with the incredible help of my media team. There is a science to day trading attention!
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
I am excited to launch my new website in April which will feature a makeover of my podcast (new logo, new name, new direction). Recently, I secured an endorsement with MXL Microphones, along with an Artist Relations connection with MAC Cosmetics (Pro Membership). I am developing strategies for paid sponsorships, to be accomplished with the help of my media team, District Media Press.