Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracy Fowler.
Tracy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story started in the tiny, beautiful island of Barbados located in the Caribbean. I was 16 years old when I was given the chance to host my own radio show. I somehow knew that this was the path for me or something similar. At 18 years old I had my first “real job” at a Gospel radio station holding down the mid-morning shift (10 am – 3 pm). Two years later, I felt the need to expand my knowledge in the entertainment space and enrolled in a Digital Filmmaking course in Hawaii. I know, from one island to the next! After my studies in Hawaii, I had an unpaid internship in California and it was at that moment I was sure. I knew I belonged in this industry. I knew I needed to be in a space of creation, expression, sharing with others, and using entertainment to communicate. When I arrived back to Barbados I was immediately immersed into the Film and TV world along with Advertising.
In those days, the kind of Film and TV work I wanted to do did not come along as often as it does now. Advertising allowed me to use my skillset but also expanded my knowledge base in other areas such as media planning, account management, branding, marketing, etc. This experience set me up for the rest of my life. In between there, I had the opportunity to produce and host some exciting shows like “Hey Vajayjay” about female intimate health with an on-call Gynecologist, and “Women Who Wine” a show for women to whine about the issues of life while tasting and drinking wine with a sommelier. I’ve also had some experience in Artist Management and Development. Being creative is exciting, exhausting, and thrilling all in one. My most memorable job experience was when I was given the chance to be the Head of Content Production for a TV station. It was a dream come true and an experience I’m forever grateful for.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has not been a smooth one. My career choice (from age 18) was not something my parents were excited about (though they are supportive now) and I’ve had to be very self-motivated for most of my life. I did not have the support I felt would be beneficial for my confidence and growth at a young age. However, like most people, I pushed through and found my way. Though slower than some, I truly believe that nothing happens before its time. There are also some limitations in making a career in media and entertainment work on a small island. The flip side is that you become incredibly resourceful; however, compensation isn’t always satisfactory. You learn quickly how to host your radio show, MC at an event, become an ambassador for a brand, work part-time at a marketing firm, etc, just to make yourself comfortable financially.
Eventually, that can cause burnout, and doing what you love no longer feels sustainable. This is another reason why I enjoyed my position at the TV station, if I’m honest. It also allowed me to manage a lifestyle I was accustomed to which is important to me. However, a year later, that came to an end when another company from the UK bought the station which left me devastated and lost for a while. Eventually, when I was able to lift my head above water I stepped into a new experience, two years in Tourism in a Digital Marketing role. This is a reminder that a career path isn’t linear. We need to stay open to what we can learn and grow from. This was an experience that led me to my next chapter, hosting my own Morning Radio Show.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
After my two-year stint in tourism, I found myself back in the world of media. I clearly love it! I hosted my own morning radio show called “Sunny Side Up with Tracy” on The Beat 104.1 FM. The show was focused on living life well and with intention. It was your morning breath of fresh air. This is definitely a milestone moment for me, and I’m so proud of those three years of work. I loved the community I was able to develop on-air, and I was able to work with some amazing broadcasters. Radio will always have my heart.
I’m very proud of my most recent step in life to pause, up-skill and enter a learning season. I’m officially going for my Bachelor in Entertainment Business, in my 40’s, yay! It was the step in life I didn’t know I needed. As I said, nothing before its time.
I’m also the founder of a wellness platform called Conscious Folk. We currently produce a podcast which is all about amplifying the unique Caribbean wellness voice. We also explore stories from others around the world that contribute to the collective consciousness. Basically, let’s hear the stories of others, let’s see that we’re not alone, and let’s learn how to do better together. We are all the same and all connected. I’m really proud of the work so far on the podcast, and you can find it at www.theconsciousfolk.com.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Resourcefulness, listening to my inner voice, openness, and curiosity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theconsciousfolk.com
- Instagram: @yougotthistracy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-fowler/
Image Credits
LOUD87
