Conversations with Taylor Stern

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Stern.

Hi Taylor, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I was a senior in high school I woke up one day and decided I wanted to become a University of New Mexico Cheerleader. I decided on this even though I’d never cheered before. For the rest of the year, I practiced for the big tryouts in May. I didn’t make the team. As it often is, that detour ended leading me in the direction I really needed to be in. I got a job in the athletics department and for the next four years I carved out my future spot in the sports industry.

The day after I graduated I had a job with the Cotton Bowl Classic and packed my car up to move to Dallas, Texas. Which launched me into my career with the Dallas Cowboys, where I was started as the social media coordinator and left as the content strategist last October. Today, I’m a business owner and manage social media for brands and athletes. Additionally, I am the host of a top personal journal podcast, Thrivin’. And I’m thriving.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was always the little girl with scraped knees and holes in my leggings. I’ve never been afraid to fall, I’ve been afraid to stop. No journey ever goes according to plan. When I was at my first job at the Cotton Bowl Classic, it was a glorified internship with an expiring contract. However, I was sure they’d bring me back and I’d stay there for some time. I’ll never forget it, it was March 3, 2015, and nearing the close of business.

They called me in to tell me they wouldn’t be renewing my contract due to budget cutbacks. Devastated as I was, I let myself throw a pity party for one day. The next day I was on the hunt. Fortunately, the Dallas Cowboys hired me three weeks later. While that’s an example of a time I wasn’t expecting, there are so many opportunities along the way where you’ll have to make a choice. Take a risk or stay comfortable? Many of us choose comfort, the smooth sailing. I promise, you will be okay, you will find a way but you can only find that out if you allow yourself to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
In college, I found myself one of the few in a room who was active on social media. Back in 2012 putting building brands and having a professional presence online was becoming a focus. I saw the opportunity and I jumped on it, getting the chance to run social media for brands at an early age. My specialty has always been social media and it’s since morphed into all-around digital marketing. Working with a sports franchise like the Dallas Cowboys helped me grow my craft and sharpen my skills.

I’m most proud of my work as a digital producer for the Emmy award-winning, Dak Prescott Documentary. It was an incredible experience of combining my talents to tell his story. While I might work on the internet, I still put a focus on relationship building and growing connections. Social media was created to have a community and we often forget that. Most brands and companies are building their strategy for a mirror. They’re speaking to themselves. It’s important that you not only establish your mission but focus on how you can better your consumers or fans.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
From an early age, I was given permission to dream. My parents instilled in my sister and me that life was worth living and that whatever our hearts were called to, they would support us all the way. I think I wasn’t afraid to fall because I knew they’d always catch me, they’d help me dust my knees off and get back on the bike. I know I wouldn’t have my fearless determination without the parents I have. Jonathan and Lesly deserve all the credit for raising me with humble confidence and a strong work ethic. In my career, I’ve only gotten to where I was because of so many people who helped. Whether it was an answered email, a reassuring conversation, or opening a new door. I started working with my career coach, Debbie Mitchell when I was in a professional and personal low. Feeling hopeless she pulled me out with gentle encouragement. I’ll be forever grateful for her.

Contact Info:

• Email: hello@thrivininthewild.com
• Website: thrivininthewild.com
• Instagram: @taystern
• Twitter: @taystern