-blogged by @theRealAlexisDanielle
When it comes to being a boss and staying on top, #TyraBanks knows a thing or two. Now, in a sit down with Variety’s “Strictly Business” podcast, the Top Model turned Mogul is recalling just what has helped her maintain such an impactful brand.
According to Banks, the day her life changed forever is the day that she was told by her agent that due to her size she wouldn’t be hired by top designers. Her agent suggested that she lose weight. Meanwhile, her mother had other plans.
“She took me by the shoulders and she shook me like a rag. She said ‘I will be damned if my daughter starves for this industry,’” Banks said.
From there, Banks’ transition from ambitious model to household name began.
Banks began executive producing and hosting #AmericasnextTopModel in 2003. Now, in 2018 the hit reality/competition show is still going strong.
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Today, Banks has driven her brand to even broader levels with her Tyra Beauty makeup line, Bankable Productions company, and even a course at Stanford University which focuses on branding.
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But still, Banks credits her success to a struggle that many feel…. being black and female.
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“A lot of my success has really come through pain, and fighting through pain when you feel there’s no hope,” Banks said. “My mama told me that the front door is going to be closed for you because you are a woman, and that door is going to be doubly closed for you because you are a black woman. But there is a window. There is a side door. There is an attic, there’s a cellar, there’s a basement. It doesn’t matter how you get into that house of success, just get in.”
