Exclusive Interview with Dominique M. Carson
Today we’d like to introduce you to Dominique M Carson.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
I am from New York City, Brooklyn to be exact. I reside in the south, but I am a city girl always. I am a 3x City University of New York graduate. I completed my media training at Brooklyn College and massage curriculum at Queensborough Community College. I have achieved a great deal thus far in my life because I strive to keep God first and embrace the people in my life who sincerely wish me well. I want to thank my fiance, friends, & family for their support and words of encouragement. It is important to have solid people in your life. It is essential for me to network with people in my designated fields and not to burn bridges. I was granted opportunities because I was at the right place, right time.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
For starters, I was another child born out of wedlock in an urbanized neighborhood to an educator and a “pharmaceutical engineer”. Due to street hustle, my biological father was murdered when I was one year old. From six months to 4 years old, I was hearing impaired which was a trying time for my family. However, due to God’s grace and the support of my family and friends, my hearing returned and my journey began in life. My childhood was good but it was difficult at times. Relatives believed I was catered to because of the challenges I have endured earlier on in life. I was sometimes teased and others could not understand my distinct personality as a child. I also experienced countless rejection as a college graduate, and at some point, I questioned my career path. Lastly, my integrity and dignity were questioned when I started taking my freelance work more seriously and interviewed artists in the entertainment industry. All of the hardships and challenges I have experienced made me realize my inner cheetah, also my inner strength, but in a tasteful way. It is a challenge to be strong when your insides are hurting, but you have to keep pushing and let God lead your path always.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I am a freelance journalist and massage therapist. I started writing articles early on and my first celebrity interview was rapper, Aubrey “Drake” Graham. Since 2012, I interviewed over 100 celebrities and have written for notable outlets as a freelancer. I have interviewed quite a few hitmakers and I am extremely grateful. There are other talented journalists in the world, granted, and I want everyone to succeed. However, I am leaving my mark as a media analyst so competition does not phase me anymore. I believe that as long as I include the three elements in my work: accuracy, brevity, and clarity, people will respect my work as a writer. Hence, I am figuring out different ways and methods that would allow me to hone my craft.
Furthermore, massage is an applied science that has the ability to change people’s health and well-being. I have been licensed for a year but my massage journey began when I was 17. I am fortunate that I have two divergent careers that allow me to facilitate people’s lives.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
An inspirational vision is not a pipe dream, give it a chance to mature and reveal its true potential.
Don’t forget the people who have played a significant impact on your career. You must stay humble always. God can give an overflow of blessings but it can be taken away with the size of a teaspoon — So you may have to check yourself a few times. Talent will allow you to achieve your goals but your character and accountability will determine longevity.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Know God, know who you are, figure out your purpose, and continue to be authentic to yourself. The worst lies are the ones we tell ourselves, so do not camouflage it for anyone. Accolades are great and an honor, but true success is strengthening your relationship with the Most High and constantly loving yourself.
What’s next for you?
Aside from continuing writing articles & massaging clients, I am Publishing a biography on Jon B in fall 2020. I am also working on two books for summer 2021 & 2022, a biography on a famous cartoon character and an informative and entertaining piece about my massage journey. I have been nominated for the Newswomen Club of NY award in Feature Writing.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more.
My portfolio can be found here. You can also connect with me via my website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.