Today we’d like to introduce you to Niza Colon.
Hi Niza, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began when I relocated from the Tampa Bay area to Central Florida to study Radio & Television at the University of Central Florida; there I graduated with my bachelor’s degree as an RTV Generalist- I worked some side media jobs here and there but nothing ever screamed, “this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”
Until one day, I was invited on to be a guest host of The Deadass, Tho. Podcast; that is what initially started my interest in podcasting. After our first episode together, I was invited back as a permanent host because the chemistry on-air was perfect between me and my now co-hosts, Kelly and Jay.
A year passed and I thought. “wow, I would love to create my very own platform and business from this newly found passion,” fast forward to 2020, I created what is now the ‘Sorry If I Offend You’ Podcast, which airs each and every Monday on all podcast streaming apps. Since starting my own journey a year ago, I have created a strong brand and amazing connections- we are even an online store for clothing and other merchandise.
I can truly say becoming my own boss was the best decision I have made. Aside from my podcasting business, I am also the Human Resources manager and Event Coordinator for The Beacham, The Social, AERO, The Patio and 64 North, located in Downtown Orlando. Here I contract all private concerts, event and parties as well as oversee all employee operations.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I live by the motto, “nothing great in life comes easy.” So, no the journey hasn’t always been smooth but I wouldn’t have it any other way, all of the struggles and setbacks have made me a better businesswoman all around. Some of the struggles I have come across, like man other entrepreneurs’ was learning to not take things personally when it came to support or criticism – not everyone is going to see your vision like you do.
Also, I’ve struggled with time management- that was a huge one for me; I am the host, engineer, social media manager, designer and basically everything from A-Z for my podcast brand. Then I have my career as well so setting my schedule weekly and even daily is a must a was something I learned along the way. Constantly creating content people want to hear is a pressure I think that motivates me every week.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’d like to say I wear many hats but my favorite is podcast hosting. I am able to be the CEO of my own company, every week, there’s something new to discuss and even guest appearances. I specialize in audio entertainment for the culture, some times people don’t always agree with me but where’s the fun in the popular opinion. I like to challenge my guests to be their open and honest selves in conversation and get the raw reaction for listeners.
I am most proud of my ability to stay motivated and consistent in creating a brand that not only I can be proud of but also people seem to love it; from the episodes to the merchandise I sell- it shocks me that I was so afraid to spread my wings before I immerged into the podcasting world. What sets me apart from others is that I am completely me- no acting, no pretending, just me all the time. I am honest with my listeners- even when the conversations are sometimes very controversial and I see topics from all perspectives.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Honestly, growing up, I was a bit of a cry baby… Being the youngest of five children, I had to learn to have tough skin, I was always the sweet kid down for any adventure and I still am (except I may not be as sweet, LOL.) I was always into sports with my brother closest to my age and playing with him and his friends- you can say that shaped me into a tomboy. I used to love and still love karaoke.
When I was a little girl, I actually wanted to be a singer like Mariah Carey, but that was short-lived on account that I really can sing if my life depended on it. Then I wanted to become a CSI detective (too much Law & Order) and a lawyer because people always said I was a top-notch arguer (haha).
When I graduated high school, that all changed… I was always into media, music and entertainment but I didn’t realize that was something I was destined to pursue until one day I spoke with a counselor at school and he informed me that he could tell it was my calling to being in some form of media reporting.
Contact Info:
- Email: contactsiioy@gmail.com
- Website: SorryIfIOffendYou.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sorry_if.i.offend.you.podcast/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SorryIfIOffendYou
- Other: https://anchor.fm/sorryifioffendyou
Image Credits
‘Sorry If I Offend You’ pocketed Tshirt in Black and “Sorry If I Offend You’ Hoodie in Gold/Maroon/white. Both pictured.
