Tanya White: Sharing How Being the Author of Your Own Story Leads to Success

by Cyrus Webb

Tanya White is a force to be reckoned with. She has made a name for herself as a passionate educator, bestselling author, dynamic media personality and host---yet that is just part of her story. 

She is also an individual who knows what it's like to deal with unimaginable grief, disappointments and setbacks, yet she has forged ahead, reminding us all of what is possible when we don't give up on ourselves. I've known Tanya for quite some time, and it's been great seeing her rise and shine---and the world getting a glimpse of all she has to offer.    

3.       Looking at 2024, what were some of the highlights for you?
Letting go of comfortable business connections/endeavors that were not profitable or progressive and leaping into several new and unknown endeavors that have manifested exponential expansion and unexpected yet amazing opportunities.

 
Challenges come to us all. What helped you not to be defined by the things that didn’t go your way?
Maturity and overcoming previous obstacles have taught me that when things do not go as I anticipated and worked hard for, it is okay.  A challenge is a major part of my life’s journey which shows me how big my faith, focus and character truly is.  I have learned that if I pout and remain disappointed when I receive closed doors/opportunities, I will not be humble and feel entitled when the opened doors and new opportunities are presented.
 

Part of your platform is to motivate and inspire others. What was it like for you to see how your work has had an impact on the lives of others?
I am amazed, especially when people who do not know me or live in my city and automatically share their excitement or how one of my books, podcasts or interviews have inspired them to launch into new things.  It keeps me both humble and ignited to persevere.
 
You use words to convey your thoughts. When did you realize the power of words for yourself?
I have always been a wordsmith. I inherited that from my mother and father who both were avid readers, writers, teachers in church and motivational speakers.  So, my household was filled with conversations, discussions and reflection.  However, it was in 2005 (before social media) when I launched my weekly enewsletter called Tanya’s Tips that I realized the power of my words.  I started sending the enewsletter to about 15-20 people in my Sunday School class.  Within a month, I had over 100 subscribers in several states.  Within six months, it had grown to over 1,000 subscribers in over 17 states and in the United Kingdom.  People were so inspired by my words and messages, that they were sharing and encouraging others to subscribe.
 
I am under the belief that we all have a voice that needs to be heard. What has helped you to share your voice with the world?
Triumphing through my trauma of losing loved ones, professional and relationship disappointments. I understand that everyone has a voice that someone needs to hear.  That is why I use my voice to empower, encourage and give others a platform as well as opportunities to share their voices as well.

Social media is something all of us use. How has it helped you to reach your audience?
Social media has allowed me to meet, collaborate and build connections with people around the world who share my values, vision and excitement of personal growth and expansion.  They share my endeavors with their audience and I do the same for them.
 
Many people finished 2024 with uncertainty and even fear. What advice would you give them about keeping optimism with the new year?
Uncertainty is normal. Fear is normal. However, do not allow the normalcy of uncertainty and fear paralyze you to the point where your life becomes abnormal.  Press through the obstacles and find the lessons of optimism within them.

What are you looking forward to when it comes to 2025?
Personal and professional expansion.  I call 2025 my Kobe Bryant year – I have been an educator for 24 years, a self-published author for 17 years and have published 10 books of my own and have been a media personality for 16 years. Despite all of what I have accomplished over these incredible years, I wake up every single day working diligently to improve my craft, skill and talent. I seek people who I can learn and elevate from while doing the same for others.  I never feel as though my success has allowed me to arrive.
 
Great catching up with you, Tanya. Thanks for all you do. How can our audience stay connected with you? 
www.facebook.com/realtalkwithtanyawhite
https://www.instagram.com/realtalkwithtanyawhite/
www.youtube.com/@realtalkwithtanyawhite5097