Host Cyrus Webb welcomes back Master Event Planner/Author/Media Personality Melissa Banks to Conversations LIVE to discuss her busy year, new series WOMEN WHO SHINE---and what's coming.
Pre-order PLAN IT LIKE A PRO on Amazon here.
www.themelissabanks.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cyrus-webb-s-tracks--1422267/support.
Pre-order PLAN IT LIKE A PRO on Amazon here.
www.themelissabanks.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cyrus-webb-s-tracks--1422267/support.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hello everyone, and welcome back to Conversations Live. I'm your
host Cyrus webs So glad you guys could join us
once again for us tuning in on the radio doll
In Mississippi at Max WYEED ninety four point one FM
and wyed online dot com. Regreat that you all can
be with us, also join its online worldwide ZRA podcast
at our Heart Radio and Amazon Music. But that you
all could be with us as well. As you guys know,
(00:20):
I've had a crazy busy month, but so has our
next guest. We're excited to welcome back to Melissa Banks
to our broadcast. You guys know her as an award
winning mastery event planner. She's an Amazon best selling author, entrepreneur,
media personality. We're going to talk to her about her
busy October, what it's been late for her to be
able to do work that she loves, but also how
she's been able to spotlight others. One of the ways
(00:41):
she's done that is through her Women Who Shine series.
We're going to talk to her about that, but also
about her upcoming book coming out in November, Planet Like
a Pro. Going back to her event planning tits for
all of you Melissa, welcome back to the broadcast.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
I'm excited to be here. Thank you for having me again.
It's always such pleasure.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
Well, the pleasure is definitely don't mind. We always have
some great things to talk about. I've mentioned some of them.
I know you also are planning for a busy November.
But here we are now, Melissa, Melissa, were at the
beginning of the last quarter of twenty twenty five. Talk
to us about that for a moment. What has it
been like for you to reflect on the first nine months,
and then, of course, as I mentioned, the busy October
(01:19):
you've had, It's been.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
An interesting, exciting year. It's been a year of a
lot of different things happening. It's been like on full speed,
especially getting to the fourth quarter. It seems like you
got here. October just got here quickly. It's so so
been just doing a lot of things. But October came
in with exploding and it's been none stop, and it's
(01:42):
super exciting to do so many of the different things
that I love to do.
Speaker 1 (01:46):
Yeah, I think that's a great way to kind of
kick this off, Melissa, because for our radio audience, they
have not heard from you since you one mostly your
first book signing of the year. We have to talk
about that. You just got an award Justice past week.
We haven't talked about that. And as I mentioned in
my intro course, you releasing a new book in November,
but you also I had been very busy and planning
(02:08):
for in November as well. What's it been like for
you to do work that you love and listen but
also to see the rewards that's coming with it, but
also the recognition you're getting for it.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
You know, it's so full, because you know, we just
work and work and work, and we do so many things,
and it's really good to see them come full circles,
see people finally recognizing. You mentioned the book signing that
was so rewarding to actually see the readers right there
in the space and the excitement about the books, and
(02:40):
it just helps you connect with them. And so it's
definitely rewarding to be able to do that and to
just do some of the things that you love to do.
And then we talk about this cyrus when we talk
about you and how you love all the different things
that you do. So that's what this year and this
month really has been that I've gotten to speak and
empower it encourage women. And then I was recognized as
(03:03):
the hero of Wards for my work and what I do,
and that's such so rewarding to be in a space
that women are recognizing what you do in the impact
that you have on them and to just get that
notice that was just an amazing honor and I'm still
super excited about that. And that's what it's been about
for me, is been able to do what I love,
(03:24):
do what I'm passionate about, and that's empowering women, and
be able to do it in my business see it recognized,
and be able to connect with my community and the
people that support me has been just an amazing ride
to me.
Speaker 1 (03:41):
Yeah, I want to talk about the results, but also
the journey because a lot of times, Melissa, you just
said something to make me think about this, and I
hope our audience really hears you and talking about this
because a lot of times we don't see the results
we want, right, We don't see them when we want them,
we don't see people are noticing. How do you keep
(04:03):
going in spite of that, and how does that impact you?
As you said, when you do see people basically saying, Melissa,
I see you I appreciate you, and I value you.
Speaker 2 (04:15):
You know sorry. What I have learned on my journey is, yes,
we have plans, we have goals, we have the way
we want to see it look. We even have timelines
as to how we want to see it look. And
then when those things are not checking off like we thought,
we start thinking, this is not the dream, this is
not the purpose, this is not working. But what I've
learned is, even in the midst of the struggle and
(04:38):
the miss when things seem to be more notes and yes,
this seems to be more missing the mark than making
the marks, if you continue to focus on your purpose
and why you're doing what you're doing, and continue to move,
then you will get to the reward. If that's what
helps you keep going, focus on what's not happening, but
(05:03):
keep moving and focus on what is happening. Maybe you
impacted one woman who decided, you know what I'm going
for my dream, or one woman that says you know
what I am enough and I believe that because you
said something to me, and that pushes you to keep
going and keep going even though the big quick picture
is in there. What I've learned is even though what
(05:24):
you consider missus is part of the journey and part
of what's necessary to get you to where you're supposed
to be. And when my focus changed like to that,
that's how I would say I'm able to keep going
even in the dark seasons, and there is not all
the seasons are not light bright, gold and shining. But
even in those seasons, keeping going, focus on the work
(05:48):
and who you're impacting. Leave the results up to God.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
So I mentioned in my introduction lista different things that
you are doing now these are not things you have
always done. What has helped you to be open to change?
But also in expanding on the vision.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
You know what did it for me was the pandemic syrus.
You know, when the pandemic hit, I was doing one thing,
focused on that one thing, and if I had just
stayed there, then I wouldn't be here because none of
the other doors would have been opened. Was I braid? Scared?
Felt like I wasn't didn't have the experience or the skills.
I didn't, But I had to move anyway. And that's
(06:29):
the key, even if it's uncomfortable, then open to change, man,
open to pivoting. That's what changed everything for me, and
open up all these other doors.
Speaker 1 (06:38):
Yeah, and one of those doors is you're adding author
to your name, and I should say not just author,
but best selling author, including with your newest book, Melissa
that's coming out in November. I got a chance to
break that news to you. I should doing another interview,
we were doing another platform, talk to us about that experience,
(06:58):
something that you never even expected for yourself. What does
it being for you to see the way you've grown
only as an author, but also an authority in books?
Speaker 2 (07:08):
You know, It's just never gets old, the feeling of
saying your name on a book. I never dreamed that
I would be in this place. You know. That wasn't
something that was on my vision board. That wasn't something
that I was praying for it to be an author.
I never would have been open to that had it
not been the place that we were as a country
(07:28):
and where we were as a business. So it never
gets old to see your name there and then find
out that something that your skills, that you put on
paper is the best sellers. And not only are you
am I seeing my name, I'm seeing best seller on it.
That feeling I get excited talking about it. I get
excited when I see it, talking about it to other people.
(07:51):
It is just an amazing feeling that it's all like
it's brand new every time I see it or talk
about it.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
Yeah. So you have written and two types of books, Melissa.
One course types being inspirational. The other has been more informative.
The two books that have been more informative have been
about the things that you know, of course, have become
known for, and that is event planning. So do I
really need an event Planner? Was the first book. Now
you have Planned Like a Pro fifteen event Planning Tips
(08:20):
to Plan Events that While that's coming out in November,
it's available for pre order now for those joining us
via the podcast, you'll find a link there with this broadcast.
Talk to us about that. I mean, you are known
as a master event planning, You've made your name and that,
But what has it been like for you to empower others,
Melissa when it comes to planning their own events?
Speaker 2 (08:40):
You know, that's been an exciting progression if you will
to because I love event planning. I still love event
planning even today, even though I'm doing a lot of
different types of event planning. But that's what it's all about.
Its growth and doing different things, but then get to
a place where that's what I don't believe We're supposed
to just learn and then hold it time to ourselves,
(09:01):
but learn and share it with others. Because there are
people who can plan events great, there are people who
dream of again planning companies. And I've been in it
for twenty six years, so I've seen a lot. I've
experienced a lot, So to make that progression easier for
others is just very rewarding for me, but also where
(09:21):
I should be at this point sharing what I've learned.
Everybody don't have to learn it's the hard way. I
don't believe in that. I believe in sharing with what
I've learned along the way and someone else can follow
that dream and have a roadmap. And even if it's
not your dream, you just love doing events. I know
people who plan really great events. They don't want to
do it professionally, but they do want a blow. They
(09:43):
want to process so that they don't feel overwhelmed, and
what I've learned can help them do that. In both
of those books.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Fash another thing that you've done, Melissa, we have to
mention this you reference earlier about the pandemic But one
thing that that really I have seen personally from you
and others, and I have it amplified it as well,
is realizing that you can exist in both in both worlds,
and what I mean by that is both online and offline.
I talk about that a lot. What has that been
(10:11):
like for you to find your space online and to
be able to meet your audience there just like you've
been able to do for years in person.
Speaker 2 (10:20):
You know that was a growth process though, right That's
another opportunity to open up to get the training that
you need to learn how to connect with people even
if you're not in their space. I have to learn
how to create fabulous events all virtually and create the
moments that people will remember and do that virtually. Actually,
(10:42):
I loved learning about it, and I can, and it's
a learning process that doesn't end. You have to keep
learning because it all changes so rapidly, so you have
to stay informed and have people around you that can
help you along the way to educate you on how
to do it. So, once I was able to get
some the skills, connect with a great PR person and
(11:03):
learn how to do the marketing side and understand that
it's consistency and it's just the work and being present
online just like you are offline. I have Cyrus, I
have some people that I've never met in person. You
do too. The entire relationship has been from offline, and
these relationships are just powerful as the ones that I
(11:26):
meet in person.
Speaker 1 (11:27):
Yeah, I totally agree to agree with that. I want
say for those who are just tuning in, welcome. You're
listening to conversations live on the radio dial at max
TPYED ninety four point one FM and wyd online dot com.
Buffle join his online worldwide. There a podcast that I
heard radio on Amazon Music. Appreciate you guys joining us
as well. Melissa Banks is our guest today. She's a
award winning master event planner, Amazon bestselling author, entrepreneur and
(11:50):
media personality. We're talking with her about a very busy
twenty twenty five but also a busy October start to
the last quarter of the month less part of the year,
and then of course the things she is coming up
as well. Then, one of the other things you've done
that was new for you, you mentioned being an author
was new. You're not only hosting one show, Melissa, but
(12:11):
also having two podcasts. Two podcasts you started in five years.
You have Dream by Design with Melissa Banks, and you
have the Melissa Banks Show. Talk to us about that.
What if I'm curious about two things. One what has
that been like for you? But I'm curious as to
people who know you what that's been like for them
to see you hosting two of your old shows.
Speaker 2 (12:34):
You know what, people are still shocked, just like I
am that that I never I would would have one
show and to have two shows and loving both of
those audiences. And so it's been really interesting to learn
that that area and that industry and to find out
(12:55):
that I'm comfortable in that industry as well. And again, Cyrus,
you know, that's not something I thought I would be
in a place to do. So it's been really great.
And you know, I've met some new people recently and
when they find out about the shows that you have
two podcasts, I mean, it's just a big it's a
big deal, and I love it, and I love meeting
the people and you've got feel like you really know
(13:17):
them by the time there our conversation is over. So
it's it's been amazing. I love love both shows, even
though the audience is different from both shows. But I
absolutely love them both.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Yeah, And one thing you've been doing with Dream by
Design with Melissa Banks, Melissa is this series Women Who Shine.
Talk to us about that.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
Women who Shine is I get excited even just saying it,
because it's just, you know, women tend to give, give, give,
and when we celebrate ourselves, we don't celebrate ourselves in
a big way. We kind of play it down. I
wanted to just take have invite some women to come
on the show and talk about themselves, talk about their successes,
(14:01):
some of their journey, some of the things that they
had to overcome and keep going in order to show
up and inspire so many people. Every episode, I'm learning
so much about the women and their journey. Then you know,
we show up and we look like everything is all amazing,
but the women go through so many challenges. But these
(14:21):
women continue to shine as they go through these challenges
and inspired and encourage everyone, all of us. So that's
an inspiring series. I'm inspiring every single guest that I
speak with, and I just wanted to shine the spotlight
on women and these women are absolutely amazing.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
Yeah, and our audience can be able to hear those
as well. You know, Melissa. I think the other thing
about you is that, and this is again a great
lesson for our audience, is that it's very easy for
us to get comfortable and, as a less kind way
of saying, a beginning complacent, right. And the reason why
(15:01):
so many people get left behind is because they're not
willing to change and not willing to evolve. Now, I'm
a person who's a creature of habit too, but I
do understand the importance of change at times. What has
helped you to embrace change? Because it's not always easy,
But what's helped you to embrace it, whether we're talking
about what happened during the pandemic or when life, you know,
(15:24):
life's around us, what has helped you to do it
that you can share with our audience.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
You know, this is a really great question because everything
that my world today is nothing that I envision. I
never imagined that I would be sitting on a show
and speaking to you. I never imagine My very first
interview happened in twenty nineteen. It was a radio show
(15:50):
with you, and it was the very first time I
did an interview. I never thought that that would take
me from there to where I am and all the
stuff that's happened in between that point. But what is
what keeps me going is even though I'm so afraid,
at times I was afraid to do that interview, you
wouldn't give me the questions. I felt like I needed
(16:11):
to study to prepare for it, so I couldn't do that.
But I did the interview anyway, even in the middle
of the fear. Which is the biggest lesson you can
learn is don't wait to not be afraid. Take that
next step while you're afraid, and that's how doors continue
to open. That's how you continue to build your faith,
(16:32):
continue to build your confidence, continue to build, and the
whole world that's waiting for you opens up for you
because you're willing to move while you're afraid. And that's
been the key.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
Yeah, and I totally agree with that. And I don't
give anyone the questions, so it's not like I was
treating you any different than anyone else. I don't give
questions to anybody because y'all look grown and y'all should
know your story. You don't need me for just say it.
I mean, you know people have asked me for questions too,
and you know they don't get a question, but no,
I mean, I think that's a really great point though too.
(17:05):
And being willing to try. I think that's the other
big thing there too, and being willing not to get
it right. So talk to us about that. I have
found two things, Melissa, in my life. My idea of
what success is has changed, but also my idea what
failure is has changed. How have you navigated what others
may perceived as failures and not let those stop you?
Speaker 2 (17:30):
Ooh, you know what? That is huge? And realizing this,
it's been so huge in my journey. First of all,
I set really high goals and then I would beat
myself up when I didn't if I didn't reach that
really high goal, or I had something that I thought
was fabulous and the idea was fabulous, but it didn't
(17:51):
do well. So what I've learned is just because it
didn't do well at that moment doesn't mean it wasn't
a good idea. Also learned to not focus so much
on the results, but on the work to get to
the result folks, and be willing to take the chances
and do something that you are excited about. But one
thing I also realizing in my journey is to be
(18:14):
honest with myself. Did I do everything that I needed
to do, Did I have a plan, did I go
to someone that can help, You know, be honest with yourself,
because that's important in your growth. You can't grow if
you're not honest with yourself. So growing and step moving
afraid is the key. And also being willing to say,
(18:37):
you know, what doesn't work this time, but next time,
and to keep moving, and being willing to try stuff
that feels strange, try stuff that's out of your norm.
You know, my norm was even planning. All this other
stuff was all new to me. That I had to
move here, and I continue to move in dear because
doors keep the door says open, are placing me in
(18:59):
places that I never thought I would be. So I
had to learn how to be there. I learned how
to grow and to move even in fear.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Yeah, and to be an example for others toobers recognized,
among other things, Melissa's you know as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
That was a big part of the story you were
sharing at the big part of the first part of
twenty twenty. What I find so interesting The reason why
I'm bringing up the latter part of this conversation is
because you're a great example of that not being all
(19:32):
your story. Talk to us about that, But that's been
like for you to show people that you are more
than what you've been through and that there's so much
more to you. How important has that been.
Speaker 2 (19:45):
That is the cornerstone of everything I do. I want
women and others to look at me and know that, yes,
I am a survivor of domestic violence. I am a survivor,
and that is the key to everything that I do.
That it's the basis that that that start. There was
a time that I wouldn't speak unless someone spoke to me,
(20:06):
unless it was my real family, my close family, because
I was so insecure and had no self esteem and
no confidence in myself. But look at where I am now,
speaking on shows like this, hosting two podcasts, speaking at conferences.
So where I started felt broken and hard and dark.
(20:27):
It was the season. It wasn't what I was designed for.
Because you see what my life has turned into, and
I want people to look at me and you realize
this is where you start. And that's why I began
to share my story. Sorry, excis, I didn't share my
story for the first time till twenty nineteen, twenty twenty,
at a conference that I spoke at, I began to
(20:47):
share parts of my story. But they need to hear
where you start, because it doesn't matter where you start,
it's what you do with all that in between. Do
you step into doors that open for you? Are you
willing to lean into your faith and learn to build
your faith? And that's why I'm here where I am today.
It's because even though that would start, even though that
(21:11):
felt like the end, more times than not, look at
today and it's because I didn't there. I didn't let
it be the end of my story. Is just part
of my story and my journey that gets me to
where I am today.
Speaker 1 (21:25):
Well that's a great segue, then, Melissa, because we are
at the end of October. But do you have a
lot that is coming up in November? As I mentioned,
you have a new book that's coming out, but you
also are gearing up for a very busy season in
your industry. Talked to U about some of the things you're
excited about moving into November.
Speaker 2 (21:44):
Well, you know, November is a big start to the
holiday season, new products coming out, but also cyrus in
looking toward your new year, most of us started looking
toward where we going next year, even in November. So
we have some great new inspirational products coming out because
that's my core. I want to empower women to believe
(22:06):
in themselves to move out. So we have some new
products and services that are coming out in that area,
and we're just looking forward to a great end to
the year.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
Awesome, awesome. So, Melissa, I want to ask your advice
and your encouragement for an audience out there. They're looking
at you, They're looking at all that you're doing, and
they're like, Wow, here she is. She's hosting shows, she's
writing books, she's speaking, she's doing all these things, and
they're looking at themselves and saying, I'm nowhere near where
(22:36):
I want to be or where I planned on being
this year. What advice would you give them about just
starting now, Melissa, because that seems to be a big
part of what we talked about here, the importance of
just starting. What would you say to her audience when.
Speaker 2 (22:49):
It comes to that, that's it, Sirens, That's what I
would say. I would say to you, and don't tell
off everything that you don't have. I want you to
take a step to where you want to go do
one thing. Take today and say this is what I
want to do, and do that one thing. Don't make
it perfect, don't make this big long checklist, just do
(23:11):
that one thing. Take that one step. I assure you,
and I promise you. If you take that one step,
then tomorrow you're gonna get up and you're gonna take
another step. And then next week you're gonna get up,
You're gonna take another step. And when you realize that,
you're putting together that dream that was already in your heart,
already in your gut, you just needed to bring it out.
(23:32):
What's stopping you is the whole big picture, from beginning
to end and everything in between, and that stops you
from taking the first step. Be Tomo vision, write down
one thing today and do that one thing, and then
move and do the next thing.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
Such great advice, and you're hearing it from someone who
knows firsthand. And get everyone. The Melissa Banks has been
our guests. We've been talking to the Melissa Banks about
her very busy year, busy tobrah. What's coving up? Melissa?
Always great catching up? How can our audience stick connected
with you?
Speaker 2 (24:05):
You know what? This is a great fun inspirational conversation Sorrus.
I'm just so thankful for the time that you've given
me today. You can connect with me at Demailissa Banks
dot com and you can really go there and find
some of those episodes of both podcasts to be there.
All of our social media connections, how to get at
horros for booking or speaking or engagement, all of that
(24:27):
information is right there at Demalissa Banks dot com.
Speaker 1 (24:31):
All right, Melissa, congratulations again on a great year at
a great season. Looking forward to chatting with you again.
Speaker 2 (24:37):
Thank you so much for having me, glad to do.
Speaker 1 (24:40):
It, and we thank your audience for tuning in another
great segment of Conversations Live. Until next time, I'm Cyrus
website as always, enjoying your day, enjoy your life, enjoy
your world. Thank you all so much for tuosing Conversations
Live and let's go make today amazing. Take care,
Hello everyone, and welcome back to Conversations Live. I'm your
host Cyrus webs So glad you guys could join us
once again for us tuning in on the radio doll
In Mississippi at Max WYEED ninety four point one FM
and wyed online dot com. Regreat that you all can
be with us, also join its online worldwide ZRA podcast
at our Heart Radio and Amazon Music. But that you
all could be with us as well. As you guys know,
(00:20):
I've had a crazy busy month, but so has our
next guest. We're excited to welcome back to Melissa Banks
to our broadcast. You guys know her as an award
winning mastery event planner. She's an Amazon best selling author, entrepreneur,
media personality. We're going to talk to her about her
busy October, what it's been late for her to be
able to do work that she loves, but also how
she's been able to spotlight others. One of the ways
(00:41):
she's done that is through her Women Who Shine series.
We're going to talk to her about that, but also
about her upcoming book coming out in November, Planet Like
a Pro. Going back to her event planning tits for
all of you Melissa, welcome back to the broadcast.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
I'm excited to be here. Thank you for having me again.
It's always such pleasure.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
Well, the pleasure is definitely don't mind. We always have
some great things to talk about. I've mentioned some of them.
I know you also are planning for a busy November.
But here we are now, Melissa, Melissa, were at the
beginning of the last quarter of twenty twenty five. Talk
to us about that for a moment. What has it
been like for you to reflect on the first nine months,
and then, of course, as I mentioned, the busy October
(01:19):
you've had, It's been.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
An interesting, exciting year. It's been a year of a
lot of different things happening. It's been like on full speed,
especially getting to the fourth quarter. It seems like you
got here. October just got here quickly. It's so so
been just doing a lot of things. But October came
in with exploding and it's been none stop, and it's
(01:42):
super exciting to do so many of the different things
that I love to do.
Speaker 1 (01:46):
Yeah, I think that's a great way to kind of
kick this off, Melissa, because for our radio audience, they
have not heard from you since you one mostly your
first book signing of the year. We have to talk
about that. You just got an award Justice past week.
We haven't talked about that. And as I mentioned in
my intro course, you releasing a new book in November,
but you also I had been very busy and planning
(02:08):
for in November as well. What's it been like for
you to do work that you love and listen but
also to see the rewards that's coming with it, but
also the recognition you're getting for it.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
You know, it's so full, because you know, we just
work and work and work, and we do so many things,
and it's really good to see them come full circles,
see people finally recognizing. You mentioned the book signing that
was so rewarding to actually see the readers right there
in the space and the excitement about the books, and
(02:40):
it just helps you connect with them. And so it's
definitely rewarding to be able to do that and to
just do some of the things that you love to do.
And then we talk about this cyrus when we talk
about you and how you love all the different things
that you do. So that's what this year and this
month really has been that I've gotten to speak and
empower it encourage women. And then I was recognized as
(03:03):
the hero of Wards for my work and what I do,
and that's such so rewarding to be in a space
that women are recognizing what you do in the impact
that you have on them and to just get that
notice that was just an amazing honor and I'm still
super excited about that. And that's what it's been about
for me, is been able to do what I love,
(03:24):
do what I'm passionate about, and that's empowering women, and
be able to do it in my business see it recognized,
and be able to connect with my community and the
people that support me has been just an amazing ride
to me.
Speaker 1 (03:41):
Yeah, I want to talk about the results, but also
the journey because a lot of times, Melissa, you just
said something to make me think about this, and I
hope our audience really hears you and talking about this
because a lot of times we don't see the results
we want, right, We don't see them when we want them,
we don't see people are noticing. How do you keep
(04:03):
going in spite of that, and how does that impact you?
As you said, when you do see people basically saying, Melissa,
I see you I appreciate you, and I value you.
Speaker 2 (04:15):
You know sorry. What I have learned on my journey is, yes,
we have plans, we have goals, we have the way
we want to see it look. We even have timelines
as to how we want to see it look. And
then when those things are not checking off like we thought,
we start thinking, this is not the dream, this is
not the purpose, this is not working. But what I've
learned is, even in the midst of the struggle and
(04:38):
the miss when things seem to be more notes and yes,
this seems to be more missing the mark than making
the marks, if you continue to focus on your purpose
and why you're doing what you're doing, and continue to move,
then you will get to the reward. If that's what
helps you keep going, focus on what's not happening, but
(05:03):
keep moving and focus on what is happening. Maybe you
impacted one woman who decided, you know what I'm going
for my dream, or one woman that says you know
what I am enough and I believe that because you
said something to me, and that pushes you to keep
going and keep going even though the big quick picture
is in there. What I've learned is even though what
(05:24):
you consider missus is part of the journey and part
of what's necessary to get you to where you're supposed
to be. And when my focus changed like to that,
that's how I would say I'm able to keep going
even in the dark seasons, and there is not all
the seasons are not light bright, gold and shining. But
even in those seasons, keeping going, focus on the work
(05:48):
and who you're impacting. Leave the results up to God.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
So I mentioned in my introduction lista different things that
you are doing now these are not things you have
always done. What has helped you to be open to change?
But also in expanding on the vision.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
You know what did it for me was the pandemic syrus.
You know, when the pandemic hit, I was doing one thing,
focused on that one thing, and if I had just
stayed there, then I wouldn't be here because none of
the other doors would have been opened. Was I braid? Scared?
Felt like I wasn't didn't have the experience or the skills.
I didn't, But I had to move anyway. And that's
(06:29):
the key, even if it's uncomfortable, then open to change, man,
open to pivoting. That's what changed everything for me, and
open up all these other doors.
Speaker 1 (06:38):
Yeah, and one of those doors is you're adding author
to your name, and I should say not just author,
but best selling author, including with your newest book, Melissa
that's coming out in November. I got a chance to
break that news to you. I should doing another interview,
we were doing another platform, talk to us about that experience,
(06:58):
something that you never even expected for yourself. What does
it being for you to see the way you've grown
only as an author, but also an authority in books?
Speaker 2 (07:08):
You know, It's just never gets old, the feeling of
saying your name on a book. I never dreamed that
I would be in this place. You know. That wasn't
something that was on my vision board. That wasn't something
that I was praying for it to be an author.
I never would have been open to that had it
not been the place that we were as a country
(07:28):
and where we were as a business. So it never
gets old to see your name there and then find
out that something that your skills, that you put on
paper is the best sellers. And not only are you
am I seeing my name, I'm seeing best seller on it.
That feeling I get excited talking about it. I get
excited when I see it, talking about it to other people.
(07:51):
It is just an amazing feeling that it's all like
it's brand new every time I see it or talk
about it.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
Yeah. So you have written and two types of books, Melissa.
One course types being inspirational. The other has been more informative.
The two books that have been more informative have been
about the things that you know, of course, have become
known for, and that is event planning. So do I
really need an event Planner? Was the first book. Now
you have Planned Like a Pro fifteen event Planning Tips
(08:20):
to Plan Events that While that's coming out in November,
it's available for pre order now for those joining us
via the podcast, you'll find a link there with this broadcast.
Talk to us about that. I mean, you are known
as a master event planning, You've made your name and that,
But what has it been like for you to empower others,
Melissa when it comes to planning their own events?
Speaker 2 (08:40):
You know, that's been an exciting progression if you will
to because I love event planning. I still love event
planning even today, even though I'm doing a lot of
different types of event planning. But that's what it's all about.
Its growth and doing different things, but then get to
a place where that's what I don't believe We're supposed
to just learn and then hold it time to ourselves,
(09:01):
but learn and share it with others. Because there are
people who can plan events great, there are people who
dream of again planning companies. And I've been in it
for twenty six years, so I've seen a lot. I've
experienced a lot, So to make that progression easier for
others is just very rewarding for me, but also where
(09:21):
I should be at this point sharing what I've learned.
Everybody don't have to learn it's the hard way. I
don't believe in that. I believe in sharing with what
I've learned along the way and someone else can follow
that dream and have a roadmap. And even if it's
not your dream, you just love doing events. I know
people who plan really great events. They don't want to
do it professionally, but they do want a blow. They
(09:43):
want to process so that they don't feel overwhelmed, and
what I've learned can help them do that. In both
of those books.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Fash another thing that you've done, Melissa, we have to
mention this you reference earlier about the pandemic But one
thing that that really I have seen personally from you
and others, and I have it amplified it as well,
is realizing that you can exist in both in both worlds,
and what I mean by that is both online and offline.
I talk about that a lot. What has that been
(10:11):
like for you to find your space online and to
be able to meet your audience there just like you've
been able to do for years in person.
Speaker 2 (10:20):
You know that was a growth process though, right That's
another opportunity to open up to get the training that
you need to learn how to connect with people even
if you're not in their space. I have to learn
how to create fabulous events all virtually and create the
moments that people will remember and do that virtually. Actually,
(10:42):
I loved learning about it, and I can, and it's
a learning process that doesn't end. You have to keep
learning because it all changes so rapidly, so you have
to stay informed and have people around you that can
help you along the way to educate you on how
to do it. So, once I was able to get
some the skills, connect with a great PR person and
(11:03):
learn how to do the marketing side and understand that
it's consistency and it's just the work and being present
online just like you are offline. I have Cyrus, I
have some people that I've never met in person. You
do too. The entire relationship has been from offline, and
these relationships are just powerful as the ones that I
(11:26):
meet in person.
Speaker 1 (11:27):
Yeah, I totally agree to agree with that. I want
say for those who are just tuning in, welcome. You're
listening to conversations live on the radio dial at max
TPYED ninety four point one FM and wyd online dot com.
Buffle join his online worldwide. There a podcast that I
heard radio on Amazon Music. Appreciate you guys joining us
as well. Melissa Banks is our guest today. She's a
award winning master event planner, Amazon bestselling author, entrepreneur and
(11:50):
media personality. We're talking with her about a very busy
twenty twenty five but also a busy October start to
the last quarter of the month less part of the year,
and then of course the things she is coming up
as well. Then, one of the other things you've done
that was new for you, you mentioned being an author
was new. You're not only hosting one show, Melissa, but
(12:11):
also having two podcasts. Two podcasts you started in five years.
You have Dream by Design with Melissa Banks, and you
have the Melissa Banks Show. Talk to us about that.
What if I'm curious about two things. One what has
that been like for you? But I'm curious as to
people who know you what that's been like for them
to see you hosting two of your old shows.
Speaker 2 (12:34):
You know what, people are still shocked, just like I
am that that I never I would would have one
show and to have two shows and loving both of
those audiences. And so it's been really interesting to learn
that that area and that industry and to find out
(12:55):
that I'm comfortable in that industry as well. And again, Cyrus,
you know, that's not something I thought I would be
in a place to do. So it's been really great.
And you know, I've met some new people recently and
when they find out about the shows that you have
two podcasts, I mean, it's just a big it's a
big deal, and I love it, and I love meeting
the people and you've got feel like you really know
(13:17):
them by the time there our conversation is over. So
it's it's been amazing. I love love both shows, even
though the audience is different from both shows. But I
absolutely love them both.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Yeah, And one thing you've been doing with Dream by
Design with Melissa Banks, Melissa is this series Women Who Shine.
Talk to us about that.
Speaker 2 (13:39):
Women who Shine is I get excited even just saying it,
because it's just, you know, women tend to give, give, give,
and when we celebrate ourselves, we don't celebrate ourselves in
a big way. We kind of play it down. I
wanted to just take have invite some women to come
on the show and talk about themselves, talk about their successes,
(14:01):
some of their journey, some of the things that they
had to overcome and keep going in order to show
up and inspire so many people. Every episode, I'm learning
so much about the women and their journey. Then you know,
we show up and we look like everything is all amazing,
but the women go through so many challenges. But these
(14:21):
women continue to shine as they go through these challenges
and inspired and encourage everyone, all of us. So that's
an inspiring series. I'm inspiring every single guest that I
speak with, and I just wanted to shine the spotlight
on women and these women are absolutely amazing.
Speaker 1 (14:40):
Yeah, and our audience can be able to hear those
as well. You know, Melissa. I think the other thing
about you is that, and this is again a great
lesson for our audience, is that it's very easy for
us to get comfortable and, as a less kind way
of saying, a beginning complacent, right. And the reason why
(15:01):
so many people get left behind is because they're not
willing to change and not willing to evolve. Now, I'm
a person who's a creature of habit too, but I
do understand the importance of change at times. What has
helped you to embrace change? Because it's not always easy,
But what's helped you to embrace it, whether we're talking
about what happened during the pandemic or when life, you know,
(15:24):
life's around us, what has helped you to do it
that you can share with our audience.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
You know, this is a really great question because everything
that my world today is nothing that I envision. I
never imagined that I would be sitting on a show
and speaking to you. I never imagine My very first
interview happened in twenty nineteen. It was a radio show
(15:50):
with you, and it was the very first time I
did an interview. I never thought that that would take
me from there to where I am and all the
stuff that's happened in between that point. But what is
what keeps me going is even though I'm so afraid,
at times I was afraid to do that interview, you
wouldn't give me the questions. I felt like I needed
(16:11):
to study to prepare for it, so I couldn't do that.
But I did the interview anyway, even in the middle
of the fear. Which is the biggest lesson you can
learn is don't wait to not be afraid. Take that
next step while you're afraid, and that's how doors continue
to open. That's how you continue to build your faith,
(16:32):
continue to build your confidence, continue to build, and the
whole world that's waiting for you opens up for you
because you're willing to move while you're afraid. And that's
been the key.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
Yeah, and I totally agree with that. And I don't
give anyone the questions, so it's not like I was
treating you any different than anyone else. I don't give
questions to anybody because y'all look grown and y'all should
know your story. You don't need me for just say it.
I mean, you know people have asked me for questions too,
and you know they don't get a question, but no,
I mean, I think that's a really great point though too.
(17:05):
And being willing to try. I think that's the other
big thing there too, and being willing not to get
it right. So talk to us about that. I have
found two things, Melissa, in my life. My idea of
what success is has changed, but also my idea what
failure is has changed. How have you navigated what others
may perceived as failures and not let those stop you?
Speaker 2 (17:30):
Ooh, you know what? That is huge? And realizing this,
it's been so huge in my journey. First of all,
I set really high goals and then I would beat
myself up when I didn't if I didn't reach that
really high goal, or I had something that I thought
was fabulous and the idea was fabulous, but it didn't
(17:51):
do well. So what I've learned is just because it
didn't do well at that moment doesn't mean it wasn't
a good idea. Also learned to not focus so much
on the results, but on the work to get to
the result folks, and be willing to take the chances
and do something that you are excited about. But one
thing I also realizing in my journey is to be
(18:14):
honest with myself. Did I do everything that I needed
to do, Did I have a plan, did I go
to someone that can help, You know, be honest with yourself,
because that's important in your growth. You can't grow if
you're not honest with yourself. So growing and step moving
afraid is the key. And also being willing to say,
(18:37):
you know, what doesn't work this time, but next time,
and to keep moving, and being willing to try stuff
that feels strange, try stuff that's out of your norm.
You know, my norm was even planning. All this other
stuff was all new to me. That I had to
move here, and I continue to move in dear because
doors keep the door says open, are placing me in
(18:59):
places that I never thought I would be. So I
had to learn how to be there. I learned how
to grow and to move even in fear.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Yeah, and to be an example for others toobers recognized,
among other things, Melissa's you know as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
That was a big part of the story you were
sharing at the big part of the first part of
twenty twenty. What I find so interesting The reason why
I'm bringing up the latter part of this conversation is
because you're a great example of that not being all
(19:32):
your story. Talk to us about that, But that's been
like for you to show people that you are more
than what you've been through and that there's so much
more to you. How important has that been.
Speaker 2 (19:45):
That is the cornerstone of everything I do. I want
women and others to look at me and know that, yes,
I am a survivor of domestic violence. I am a survivor,
and that is the key to everything that I do.
That it's the basis that that that start. There was
a time that I wouldn't speak unless someone spoke to me,
(20:06):
unless it was my real family, my close family, because
I was so insecure and had no self esteem and
no confidence in myself. But look at where I am now,
speaking on shows like this, hosting two podcasts, speaking at conferences.
So where I started felt broken and hard and dark.
(20:27):
It was the season. It wasn't what I was designed for.
Because you see what my life has turned into, and
I want people to look at me and you realize
this is where you start. And that's why I began
to share my story. Sorry, excis, I didn't share my
story for the first time till twenty nineteen, twenty twenty,
at a conference that I spoke at, I began to
(20:47):
share parts of my story. But they need to hear
where you start, because it doesn't matter where you start,
it's what you do with all that in between. Do
you step into doors that open for you? Are you
willing to lean into your faith and learn to build
your faith? And that's why I'm here where I am today.
It's because even though that would start, even though that
(21:11):
felt like the end, more times than not, look at
today and it's because I didn't there. I didn't let
it be the end of my story. Is just part
of my story and my journey that gets me to
where I am today.
Speaker 1 (21:25):
Well that's a great segue, then, Melissa, because we are
at the end of October. But do you have a
lot that is coming up in November? As I mentioned,
you have a new book that's coming out, but you
also are gearing up for a very busy season in
your industry. Talked to U about some of the things you're
excited about moving into November.
Speaker 2 (21:44):
Well, you know, November is a big start to the
holiday season, new products coming out, but also cyrus in
looking toward your new year, most of us started looking
toward where we going next year, even in November. So
we have some great new inspirational products coming out because
that's my core. I want to empower women to believe
(22:06):
in themselves to move out. So we have some new
products and services that are coming out in that area,
and we're just looking forward to a great end to
the year.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
Awesome, awesome. So, Melissa, I want to ask your advice
and your encouragement for an audience out there. They're looking
at you, They're looking at all that you're doing, and
they're like, Wow, here she is. She's hosting shows, she's
writing books, she's speaking, she's doing all these things, and
they're looking at themselves and saying, I'm nowhere near where
(22:36):
I want to be or where I planned on being
this year. What advice would you give them about just
starting now, Melissa, because that seems to be a big
part of what we talked about here, the importance of
just starting. What would you say to her audience when.
Speaker 2 (22:49):
It comes to that, that's it, Sirens, That's what I
would say. I would say to you, and don't tell
off everything that you don't have. I want you to
take a step to where you want to go do
one thing. Take today and say this is what I
want to do, and do that one thing. Don't make
it perfect, don't make this big long checklist, just do
(23:11):
that one thing. Take that one step. I assure you,
and I promise you. If you take that one step,
then tomorrow you're gonna get up and you're gonna take
another step. And then next week you're gonna get up,
You're gonna take another step. And when you realize that,
you're putting together that dream that was already in your heart,
already in your gut, you just needed to bring it out.
(23:32):
What's stopping you is the whole big picture, from beginning
to end and everything in between, and that stops you
from taking the first step. Be Tomo vision, write down
one thing today and do that one thing, and then
move and do the next thing.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
Such great advice, and you're hearing it from someone who
knows firsthand. And get everyone. The Melissa Banks has been
our guests. We've been talking to the Melissa Banks about
her very busy year, busy tobrah. What's coving up? Melissa?
Always great catching up? How can our audience stick connected
with you?
Speaker 2 (24:05):
You know what? This is a great fun inspirational conversation Sorrus.
I'm just so thankful for the time that you've given
me today. You can connect with me at Demailissa Banks
dot com and you can really go there and find
some of those episodes of both podcasts to be there.
All of our social media connections, how to get at
horros for booking or speaking or engagement, all of that
(24:27):
information is right there at Demalissa Banks dot com.
Speaker 1 (24:31):
All right, Melissa, congratulations again on a great year at
a great season. Looking forward to chatting with you again.
Speaker 2 (24:37):
Thank you so much for having me, glad to do.
Speaker 1 (24:40):
It, and we thank your audience for tuning in another
great segment of Conversations Live. Until next time, I'm Cyrus
website as always, enjoying your day, enjoy your life, enjoy
your world. Thank you all so much for tuosing Conversations
Live and let's go make today amazing. Take care,
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