Today we’d like to introduce you to La’Janee’ Scott.
La’Janee’, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
“You should start a blog!” Sitting at my desk, discussing an episode of Real Housewives of Atlanta with my co-workers. That’s how it all started in 2012 while staying in Florida.
After that conversation, I started my first platform, I Can Repeat It, an entertainment website that would become a go-to for many entertainment gossip lovers.
I was able to secure artist interviews such as Chrisette Michele, Juicy J, Taraji P. Henson, LeToya Luckett, Mimi Faust, Andrea Kelly, and many more as well as regular guest on TMZ Live and HuffPost Live.
It wasn’t until I attended a Blogging While Brown conference, I realized my endless possibilities. I knew that ATL would be where I would thrive in this industry. I later moved to the Black mecca, in 2013, after living in MO, upon graduating from THEE Jackson State University.
Once there, I established my personal brand, outside of my website, as then La’Janee’ Cosby. I cultivated healthy mutually beneficial relationships, covered major events and awards shows, gained multiple contracts with magazines, including the largest audited African American community newspaper in Georgia —The Atlanta Voice.
After years of growing and living life as an ATLien, I was able to transform my brand to La’Janee’, Miss Education of the Stereo…type and finally moved to LA. I have evolved and have so much more to share with the world. This pivot encompasses who I am, in my totality–ratchet & refined, multi-faceted, intelligent, bold, vocal, genuine, and living in my flawed truth.
Has it been a smooth road?
I’ve been an entrepreneur for almost eight years, and for three years, I have been self-employed full time. There have been obstacles. From non-paying clients, an unfortunate eviction, lean months, and a host of other thangs.
I was able to get through that time with the help of my support system. There was a time where I was only able to do what I’m doing because of my tribe. If it wasn’t for their support, I’m not sure I would still be doing what I love, especially in LA.
I’ve had my fair share of losses. But my wins have been so massive that the losses no longer matter. If anything, they served their purpose, and I was able to eventually get it right and here I am, living a lifestyle of freedom, flexibility, and financial security.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I obtained my B.S. Degree in Mass Communications in 2010. Luckily, I chose to go into an industry that is very vast. As a multi-media professional—journalist, media correspondent, author, and digital marketer, I never get bored. I really get to do the things I love and not have to choose one over the other.
Whether I’m helping a small business owner with a content calendar or brand awareness, creating healthy controversy with my articles and books, or assisting a corporate company with million-dollar digital campaigns—I have been able to craft a lifestyle of freedom and flexibility.
When you meet me, you’ll probably think that I’m a loud stereotypical Black woman. Let’s be honest, there’s a stigma attached to being loud—especially when you’re a loud dark curvy woman. But, I am also multi-dimensional. I may be loud but I’m intelligent and I have relevant thangs to say. I’m known for my authenticity and my truth. After our interaction, you’ll probably say, “She’s loud as hell but she’s also very intelligent.”
What sets me apart is my authenticity. My ability to be transparent but not overshare, hold myself accountable, and document my life to encourage others is what draws people to me.
For example, my fourth book and #1 Kindle Amazon Best Seller–Girl. Keep Going: Healing is now in Session– is inspired by a failed relationship. It’s a self-help book that gives women applicable tools needed to heal. These are the same tools that I used to love myself in a healthier way.
Many women related to my story because I documented my healing journey in real-time. I shared my journal with the world and showed when I was sad, depressed, hurting, healing, and finally happy.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Absolutely! Los Angeles is where you come after you’ve received your training, as I like to call it. While it’s oversaturated and everyone is trying to do the same or something similar, this is a where you take it to the next level. Cali determines if you’re really ready or not.
I think it depends on your intention. I personally think that starting out in Atlanta, GA helped me a lot. ATL is more open and not so exclusive and it was easier to gain access to events and build mutually beneficial relationships with artists and public relations practitioners.
Here, LA is extremely exclusive and it’s truly who you know. If you haven’t gained a rapport with the powers that be, it may be harder. I’m glad I went to the Black mecca first, before moving here. I’m not sure I would be as prepared as I am now.
I will say that no matter where you are, be sure you’re significant. As long as what you do makes a difference, in some capacity, success will find you.
I do wish that our city was a bit more welcoming. I guess it’s a cultural thang.
Pricing:
- Girl, Keep Going: Healing is now in Session (e-book $9.99) https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Keep-Going-Healing-Session-ebook/dp/B07Y54QPXK
Contact Info:
- Website: www.girlkeepgoing.com
- Email: workwithlajanee@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_lajanee_
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