Today we’d like to introduce you to Valencia King.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had ‘the gift of gab’ meaning, I enjoy communicating with others or as my early childhood teachers would say, “Valencia talks a lot.” As a child of a military veteran, I was taught at a very young age that my voice has power and I often found myself speaking up for others and standing up to bullies for those who hadn’t yet discovered their own voice.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had ‘the gift of gab’ meaning, I enjoy communicating with others or as my early childhood teachers would say, “Valencia talks a lot.” As a child of a military veteran, I was taught at a very young age that my voice has power and I often found myself speaking up for others and standing up to bullies for those who hadn’t yet discovered their own voice.
Outside of that, I would say my journey started in high school. While attending Rowlett High School, I was given the opportunity to do the school morning video announcements from there I did an internship with a local online radio show, then I started my own show on Blog Talk Radio. Shortly after that, I was presented with an opportunity to air my show on KKVI FM Radio. I began interviewing local community leaders like former Mayor of Garland, Ronald E. Jones and Dallas Radio Legend Chris Arnold who is the Dallas Mavericks Game Night Emcee and Inclusion Ambassador.
I received my associate’s degree in broadcast journalism from Richland College and my BAAS from the University of North Texas with an emphasis in Marketing and Entertainment Management. Along my career path, I have worked with CBS Radio (Entercom) and I am currently with Cumulus Media. As a media correspondent, I have also had the opportunity to be featured as a sports reporter, content writer, red carpet correspondent and on radio platforms from New York to California and even overseas!
All of these experiences have helped me land my new TV show About & Out with Valencia King. About & Out with Valencia King is a millennial talk show, features celebrities and guests from all walks of life who are currently “getting their shine on” in entertainment, politics, technology, social justice, business, sports, and other industries while leveraging their influence about things that matter most. The show, which will travel, showcases everyday people making an impact in their community and beyond.
Has it been a smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road, but honestly, that’s what pushes me. Each challenge, struggle and set back adds more to my character, charm, and memories. Being reminded that I am a minority woman in the male-dominated industry of Sports & Entertainment has for sure made me ask myself, ‘is this really what you want to do?’ & each time my response is “YES!” – then I grab my microphone, tighten up my bra stapes and I keep moving forward. I enjoy what I do! Helping others tell and share their stories and even finding their voices.
No, it has not been a smooth road, but honestly, that’s what pushes me. Each challenge, struggle and set back adds more to my character, charm, and memories. Being reminded that I am a minority woman in the male-dominated industry of Sports & Entertainment has for sure made me ask myself, ‘is this really what you want to do?’ & each time my response is “YES!” – then I grab my microphone, tighten up my bra stapes and I keep moving forward. I enjoy what I do! Helping others tell and share their stories and even finding their voices.
My struggles have come when senior or male sports broadcasters (trying to be “funny”) challenge me about my knowledge of the game. I’ve even been blatantly asked ‘what do you know about basketball?’ with the hopes of trying to embrace and intimidate me, but I don’t let that bother me. I’ve earned the right to be here. It’s in those moments when I am reminded that this journey is not mine alone. I know these challenges that I face and conquer are for the next generation of women in journalism.
As the late Legend Nipsey Hussle says in his song ‘Dedication’ – Through “Dedication, hard work plus patience, the sum of all my sacrifice, I’m done waitin’” – I’ve been able to overcome it all.
What do you do? What do you specialize in?
I guess you could say I’m known for my voice. When I say that to people I’m just meeting, they reply, “Oh, you’re a singer?!” I laugh and say no my singing voice in an acquired taste… I’m a journalist!
I guess you could say I’m known for my voice. When I say that to people I’m just meeting, they reply, “Oh, you’re a singer?!” I laugh and say no my singing voice in an acquired taste… I’m a journalist!
Again, the Valencia King brand is known for my voice. Whether that comes in the form of hosting a celebrity event, moderating a professional panel, facilitating a workshop for youth/young adults, interviewing the top athletes/political figures, or simply bringing great stories to the forefront on ‘About & Out with Valencia King.’
I have a passion for sharing my story while helping others share theirs. As a brand, that’s what I’m most proud of; letting my audience know that no matter how ‘small’ your story may seem, the impact of sharing your story could be the push someone needs. It honestly could save someone’s life! As a people, we can’t inspire others if we don’t first acknowledge/share where our inspiration comes from.
What sets the Valencia King brand apart is the unique viewpoint and energy that I bring to all that I do. There is a god given purpose behind the brand and that’s why even in an oversaturated market, when you watch, see, or listen to Valencia King, I’ll stand out every time.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Social media and streaming have made a big shift and change in the world of journalism. As with any type of change, there are positives and negatives. In the next 5-10 years, I see the trend of being ‘your most authentic self’ coming back around into the forefront.
Social media and streaming have made a big shift and change in the world of journalism. As with any type of change, there are positives and negatives. In the next 5-10 years, I see the trend of being ‘your most authentic self’ coming back around into the forefront.
People can’t hide behind the smokes and mirrors of their Instagram story forever. Eventually, people will want to connect to something real. I believe those who are intentional about sharing their unique voice, no matter the platform, will be well ahead of the journalism game in the coming years.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ValenciaKing.com
- Phone: (214)402-5456
- Email: swalkerking@
valenciaking.com - Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/iamvalenciaking/ - Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/IAmValenciaKing - Twitter: https://twitter.com/
IAmValenciaKing - Other: https://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=R7AYWKaoNWI
Image Credit:
@SlamFilms15, @DavidPersonPhotos, @ShirleyWalkerKing, @Lifeisbut.a.Dream
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Tamar Mckenzie
July 19, 2019 at 12:47 am
Good job Valencia Aka “Ms.King keep grinding and keep your crown straight and going hard infinity is the limit 💯
Valencia
July 25, 2019 at 4:45 am
Thank you SO Much Tamar! I appreciate your support and taking the time to read/share this article! Infinity is definitely the limit!!
-@IAmValenciaKing
Marqus Shoels
August 5, 2019 at 9:43 pm
Great story I as very pleased to read this and will always show you support. Keep showing your black girl magic and keep making a difference out here.
Valencia King
October 14, 2019 at 8:56 pm
Thank you Marqus! Your words are truly treasured!! Making a difference is absolutely what I aim to do; and of course, it’s #BlackGirlMagic all day!
-@IAmValenciaKing
Marqus Shoels
August 5, 2019 at 9:45 pm
Great story, keep up the black girl magic and making a difference out here. I really enjoyed reading this.