Award-winning writer and journalist Tammy Reese’s early years provide a roadmap for defying career expectations. With a passion for entertainment and media and unwavering determination, she overcame obstacles to achieve her goals. From her award-winning content creation to her media personality and public relations skills, Tammy has become a rising media star in the industry.
The owner of Visionary Minds Public Relations and Media is best known for landing major interviews with Angela Bassett, Sharon Stone, Sigourney Weaver, Laurence Fishburne, Geena Davis, Billy Porter, Morris Chestnut, Nelly, Mona Scott Young, Giancarlo Esposito, Luke Evans, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jennifer Connelly, Joseph Sikora, Meagan Good, Leon, Donell Jones, Ginuwine, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Lauren Cohan, Phylicia Rashad, Omar Epps, Courtney Kemp, Vivica A Fox, Ryan Coogler, Tom Arnold, and so many more.
Before Tammy was interviewing Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winners she came from humble beginnings growing up on the Southside of Syracuse, NY. Though her family was a two-parent, middle-class home, Tammy was surrounded by gang violence, and drug activity that could have easily led her down the wrong path in a community filled with countless temptations. Tammy coming from a neighborhood that was cracked down by the RICO law is just a small display of the unconventional journey that has led her to a successful career thus far.
Fueling the Fire: A Passion for Entertainment and Media
Tammy Reese’s journey was fueled by her passion for entertainment and media. A natural storyteller from a young age, she demonstrated exceptional talent and drive for acting, writing, directing, and journalism. Whether through writing, acting, directing, or media, Tammy’s love for creating compelling narratives formed the foundation of her career. Tammy was in The Media Unit’s TV and Stage Production Company for 8 years in her youth where she would act in 60 live stage shows a year and host and direct their weekly live TV show called “ Rough Times Live” out of the local public access cable station.
When Tammy became a Media Unit Alum she went off to college to obtain her degree in theater and media. She then ventured to write and direct short films on social impact topics such as bullying, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, and suicide prevention. She was recognized for these efforts by becoming the recipient of the CNY 40 Under Forty Award in 2018 and the WCNY/PBS Makers: Women Who Make America Award in 2019.
Media Elevation: Showcasing Talent and Dedication
Tammy Reese’s media elevation took off when she began to land A-List interviews and cover highly anticipated TV series and films for major studios and networks such as AMC, Starz, Lifetime, TV One, Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Wetv, ALLBLK, Lionsgate and more. Also, by covering the biggest film festivals in the United States including The Sundance Film Festival and The Tribeca Film Festival. Tammy has even covered Black Media Honors, Black Music Honors, Urban One Honors, and The Academy Awards (the Oscars). In 2023, Tammy interviewed the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, Janet Yang.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Power of Determination
Tammy Reese’s journey has been marked by numerous obstacles, such as the loss of her mother and her mental health diagnosis (anxiety and depression), but her unwavering determination has allowed her to overcome those experiences. From facing rejections, and being overlooked, to navigating industry biases, Tammy has consistently proved her resilience and ability to turn setbacks into opportunities and success.
Public Relations Skills: Garnering Attention
Tammy Reese’s media personality and exceptional public relations skills have garnered attention in the industry. Her ability to connect with individuals and cultivate meaningful relationships has opened doors and created opportunities for collaboration.
Tammy is a renowned journalist who continues to be in demand by individuals and publicists across the country.
Giving Legends Their Due Recognition: Inspiring a Legacy
Tammy Reese’s commitment to giving legends and icons their due recognition is inspiring. Through her work, she has highlighted the importance of acknowledging the contributions and impact of those who paved the way. She’s covered red carpet-events with Antonio Banderas, Tyler Perry, Gayle King, Robert De Niro, Spike Lee, and Lynn Whitfield. During these moments Tammy is often reminded of the responsibility of a journalist to report on public figures in a positive light. With mindfulness, professionalism, and humanity.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Establishing a Media Company
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Tammy Reese ventured into establishing her own media company. This bold move allowed her to have creative control over her projects and further expand her reach in the industry. As the owner of Visionary Minds Public Relations and Media, she is passionate about helping up-and-coming creators and new business owners build their brands and press coverage portfolios through digital media.
In Conclusion
Through hard work and perseverance, Tammy Reese has become a shining star in the media industry. Her unconventional journey is a testament to the importance of following one’s passion, staying focused amidst challenges, and believing in oneself. Tammy’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors, filmmakers, media professionals, and business owners. As she continues to flourish, Tammy Reese’s impact on the industry will only grow, leaving a lasting legacy for others to follow.
Follow Tammy Reese on Twitter and Instagram @tammyreesemedia