[To You, From Me] The Importance of Starting Where You Are

As Conversations Magazine celebrates 14 years in operation, I have to begin this letter by saying Thank You.

Thank you to Chris Ervin and Dominique Wilkins who have worked with us over the years to present amazing covers for our readers to enjoy. Thanks to bestselling author Brandon Massey who was the first cover feature for Conversations and all of those who came after him. Most importantly, thanks to YOU the reader for your support over the years as we evolved and grew.

When I began Conversations Magazine in April 2006 in my mother's living room, I never could have imagined we would grow to a point where we have some of the biggest names in the entertainment and literary worlds joining us on its pages and on our covers. I never would have thought we'd have over 17k print subscribers getting our publication all over the world, but that is where we are!

As I reflect on our growth and success it all goes back to something I talk about repeatedly: Starting where you are.

As I said,this is not where I thought we would be, but the fact that we are here is a direct result of what we did in the beginning: Setting up an account on Blogger to publish the articles. Using disposable cameras to take pictures, because I didn't have a digital camera or smartphone. Going to Office Depot to print the magazine, helping to staple them and then mailing them out.

It was hard work, but it was so satisfying. Now when I see where we are with a magazine that is published and distributed through Amazon it makes all the hard work and long days worthwhile.

The message for you? Start where you are. Some are waiting until they get the perfect website built, have an amazing line-up of guests and topics or even the best studio setup. At the end of the day none of that matters. What people care about is your message. You will evolve, but only once you start.

This issue celebrates those 14 years and those who have made it possible, as well as some amazing individuals that I'm glad to introduce and in some instances re-introduce to you. All of those you read about got where they are by starting. Today may you realize the importance of doing the same.

Happy reading!




Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief
Conversations Magazine
www.conversationsmag.com