Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen Wallace
Hi Kathleen, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My vlogging journey has been developing since I was a kid. I attended a creative arts elementary school where we learned various art and performance pieces. There, I learned not to be afraid in front of a crowd. My love for video production and editing began in high school, where I would perform in the school’s play and then help edit the footage during class. I also had a news segment called Kat’s Corner every Friday, where I wrote and delivered various news stories. I loved seeing people enjoy the final product; hopefully, they learned something new or entertaining. After many years of procrastination, I officially started my vlog, Kat’s Kaleidoscope, in 2021. I was passionate about giving a plus-size perspective on my adventures in life, fantastic food, and exploring as many Durham businesses as possible, especially after the pandemic. Being new to North Carolina, there was so much to explore, and I knew my perspective would be organic, unique, and fun. I am still growing my brand, but it’s not about the followers for me; it’s about putting a spotlight on unique businesses and helping my community experience a new adventure.
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?
It has not been easy, but what in life is worth having? I was extremely out of practice with editing, I didn’t have the equipment I needed, and I was just outright scared, to be honest. Putting yourself out there is terrifying, and the internet can be cruel sometimes. I was determined to represent people who looked like me in places where others might feel we didn’t belong. Being a plus-size black woman who loves who she is and still finds herself is a multifaceted experience, hence the name Kat’s Kaleidoscope. Another struggle is that sometimes life is life-changing, so finding the time to dedicate to my craft was hard. My brand has become my second job, and putting out bad content is not part of my plans. I had to find a way to keep myself organized while keeping everything going. I am much better at it now, but in the beginning, it was tough!
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My life passion has always been in hospitality/event management in some way, so it makes sense that my degree is in Hotel and Restaurant Management. Before I could get to that, I started studying public relations and always joked about having my woman-owned PR firm. Of course, life happens, and things change, but I always keep the hope that I am on a journey to live my purpose truly.
Career-wise, I did a college internship at Walt Disney World as a Character Attendant. That had been my favorite job so far. How could you not love working with Mickey and Minnie? After that, I worked for Longhorn Steakhouse as a manager and Managing Partner. I loved the lessons I learned managing a business, how to relate to people, and overall working for the Darden brand. Restaurants are fun but take a hard toll on your body and free time. Every holiday that happens, you are most likely spending it with your restaurant family. I slowly transitioned to working as an operations supervisor for a patient access company. This is less entertaining than restaurants, but I enjoy being off on the weekends and holidays.
My next professional adventure is being a consultant for new businesses or revamping how they connect with their community. I have learned a lot of valuable things throughout my life, not just within one industry. I would love to put those skills to use by ensuring they are marketing their product creatively, have proper training in place for employee retention, and have the processes they use benefit anyone involved with the business. As a business consultant, I aim to make their business run smoothly and successfully.
I am a personality, and my greatest strength has always been my gift of gab. I try my best to see the positive sides of any situation, and you will always get an authentic me. So many different factors have molded my personality, so it’s hard to say “who” I am with just a few words, but no matter what, I will always be me!
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Ten years ago, social media and marketing were nowhere near what they are now, and they will keep growing and evolving. We have access to a mini computer (cell phone) in our hands every day, but when I was in elementary school, they told us we would never have a calculator in our pocket. They were wrong. I’m excited to see what marketing and video production look like in the future. Still, I am also nervous about those who, unfortunately, misuse and take advantage of the good things. One sure thing is that we will always find the funny in everything, and I am here for the memes.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katskaleidoscope_?igsh=aDNtOHYzMTM4Zms4&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/WKmMPJoK8vxxi3aN/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@katskaleidoscope6456?feature=shared
