3 Things I Learned At the NBC/ABFF Hosting Workshop

This weekend, I was blessed to be a part of the 2nd Annual TV Hosting Workshop at NBC. It's a wonderful initiative that helps TV hosts develop their brand and master the technical skills behind being a great host.

Out of hundreds who auditioned for the highly coveted slots in the weekend long boot-camp, I was beyond excited to be a part of the 47 people that got selected to soak up knowledge from Marki Costello - one of the BEST hosting coaches in the game.

Here are 3 things I learned at the hosting workshop:

1. There's enough room for all of us

On the first day of the workshop, the founder of ABFF Jeff Friday came in to inspire us with a short but sweet speech. Jeff really encouraged us to form a community and rally around each other, The notion is that if we support each other and uplift one another - we can ALL make it. We all bring something different to the table and that's what makes us uniquely special.

 For our group, we formed  Facebook group where we will post information about jobs, training or just general info that can help us all.


2. You never stop learning
I have been a TV host for the past 4 years now but can you believe that I have never had any formal training? A lot of what I have learned has just come naturally. BUT in this hosting bootcamp, I learned about the mechanics of what makes a person a good host. Y'all, my mind was blown. My head is bursting with ideas of how I will nail my next on camera gig and I can't wait to show off my newly learned skills.

3. Life is short
On day one of the hosting seminar, I received a call that one of my friends has passed away. I was so broken y'all. But what could I do? It was 10:45am and we were about to start a group exercise. I had to pull myself together, hold back the tears and carry on with the job. I was grieving for my friend Daisy on the inside but I couldn't let it show.

The first day I met Daisy in 2012

My God, she was such a light. A funny, vibrant and warm person who didn't deserve to lose her life this early in the game. But I summoned her spirit and used that as motivation. She went after her dreams to be a style expert on TV and didn't let anything - not even cancer stop her. If Daisy had that much strength and courage, then surely I could channel my energy for a few minutes into helping me achieve my goal. I miss her so much already. Life is short y'all, go after your dreams. Tomorrow is not promised!

So what happens next for me? I honestly don't know. What I do know is that my life has been forever changed. I will never stop learning and reaching higher in all areas of my life. My goal is to always strive to be the best version of me that I can be. I believe that God and the Universe all conspire to help you if you are doing your part. And I am doing just that!

Blessings to you all!

Xoxo
Makho