I had the absolute pleasure of connecting with Tara Carsner recently and we’ve shared our conversation below.
What are you most passionate about?
Most passionate about creating opportunity for others to create and push culture forward through various forms of creative expression.
How did your loved ones react to you wanting to pursue a creative career?
My parents still this day still don't understand what it is I do. They were really nervous for me to start my own business after parting ways with Jordan Brand. But hustling is a family trait--they knew deep down that one way or another I was going to figure it out. My dad is a small business owner himself, so going on my own wasn't foreign -- but a creative career so to say doesn't exist from where I'm from. I think maybe that's why they still don't really understand what I do. they just know my nieces and nephews really admire some of the people and brands i get to work with on an every day basis, and I don't ever call them for money and instead have been blessed to take them on vacations, so they are happy i'm happy.
How do you deal with creative block?
Take a break and immerse myself in culture -- attending events, going to art exhibitions, traveling and experiencing different cultures + design.
How did you figure out that you were creative?
I've always just been a dreamer and doer. i started my first business when i was 12, making and selling bracelets and beaded geckos. i even "employed" my neighborhood friends lol. Beyond that, i've just always strived to be very uniquely me, and in doing so you have to be creative to reinvent the wheel.
What's your favorite quote?
"I will not lose, for even in defeat, there's a valuable lesson learned, so it evens up for me." - Jay Z.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to 21 year old you?
You aren't entitled to anything in life and self-accountability will be one of the most important keys to finding success and happiness in life.
What do you see as the future of your respective role?
I hope that i can continue to evolve and not box myself into one specific thing... I think with all of the roles I carry, i think the future is being able to do more than your role. It's crazy to me to hear that some talent managers don't also actively pitch and play the agent role. also when doing agency work with brands I think where I win is I don't just do strategy, I don't just do influencer, I don't just do experiential production. Especially with spends getting lighter, brands and talent are going to be more frugal with who they hire and how much that person can deliver.
Where are you playing it safe right now?
Business expansion.
What makes you Strange On Purpose?
I continue to choose the road less traveled.
The Strange on Purpose Podcast tells the stories of professionals shattering the glass ceilings of culture and shows young professionals what happens when you are authentically yourself 100% of the time. Highlighting creatives in sports, apparel, lifestyle, and beyond, the show aims to connect creatives everywhere with professionals who can help guide them in their individual journeys..
Website: https://www.hometeamtalent.com/
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