Today we’d like to introduce you to Trenise McGhee-Robertson.
Hi Trenise, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After reaching a point in my life where I thought I’d checked everything off of the list, a successful corporate career, being happily remarried after experiencing the pain of divorce, and building a bustling social life, I started to feel like there was something still missing. This prompted me to head down a path of rediscovery, connecting with the things that I really enjoyed and one of those things getting lost in print magazines. Everything from fashion to fitness, the images to the articles… I would be inspired and learned so much. I was obsessed (and still am).
This obsession fueled my creative journey, where I launched my own online magazine that focused on women of color in the early 2000s. It was so special to be able to highlight material that women of color could relate to on a deeper level. Creating content quickly became my passion and only expanded during the milestone moments in my life.
However, after putting the magazine aside to focus on my career and other priorities for several years, I realized that I really missed that part of my life. I stopped making excuses and decided to go for it after the age of 40. I launched Polka dot Theory, a lifestyle blog for women approaching 40+. Not only as an outlet where I can express my creativity again but expand it into a place for women who like me (at a certain age) to be inspired to be all they can be on earth while still acknowledging the climb to get there.
Since launching the blog, it’s now expanding into a weekly Podcast with episodes that focuses on topics to encourage and inspire as well.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Ooooh, how I wish it were! What’s the saying there’s no such thing as a straight line to success. I think it goes something like that. Life tends to throw curve balls when you’re in pursuit of your goals which oftentimes require you to shift your focus. I’m no exception. I’ve had to deal with life getting in the way of lack of funding, to just dealing with negative feedback about being too old. But as with all things, you decide what’s important and keep going.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m the editor of Polka dot Theory, a Lifestyle Blog, and host of The Polka dot Theory Podcast. I’m often asked, “Why Polka dot Theory?” Well, truth be told it has nothing to do with my undying love for Polka Dots (I actually do), but it’s the fact that life isn’t always so black and white. While we like to think that life is supposed to be as perfect as the Polka Dot pattern, especially when you reach a certain age, it’s not. However, I have a few theories on how we can get as close to perfect as we humanly can. I’m proud of getting to the point in my life where I’ve decided to just go for it. Regardless of what society tells us about what women should be doing at a certain age. I can’t say this enough because I remember a time when I too was thinking that it was too late to pursue the idea of creating a brand.
What sets me apart is that I’m not just talking to my listeners/readers; I’m speaking from experience and growing right along with them. I’m no different from the woman who experienced loss and wondered if it’s not too late to pivot in life.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Absolutely, there are so many people that have cheered me on and maybe too many to name…. but the people that I continue to support and play a big role are:
• Tyson Robertson (husband) – He is one of my biggest cheerleaders that continues to encourage me in every area of life. When I started talking about launching Polka dot Theory, he supported me from the start always encouraging me to keep going.
• Beverley Carroll Wilson (mentor) – I met Ms. Wilson early, early in my career, and she inspired me in so many ways from growing my career to being fearless and following my dreams.
• Angela Williams – (coach) Angela’s coaching has really been a great help in navigating some of the common struggles and barriers that we create for ourselves when stepping out and trying something new.
• Community – Last but certainly not least are the readers/listeners. They are the reason why I do this. They keep me motivated to continue doing the work and showing up. I’ve connected with so many wonderful ladies that support every step that this brand takes.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.polkadottheory.com
- Instagram: @polkadottheory
- Other: Podcast – https://anchor.fm/tren-mcghee
Image Credits
Kesha Sermon
Lynn Creates Photography
