Today we’d like to introduce you to Loretta McNary. She and their team shared their story with us below:
Let me begin with complete transparency: this journey has been far from easy. There were countless moments when the weight of challenges tempted me to throw in the towel. But in those darkest hours, amidst tears and fears, I could always hear my Dad’s unwavering voice echoing in my mind: “Quitting is Never an Option.”
I faced tough decisions to keep the business afloat, each one testing my resolve and resilience. Despite the hardships, I’ve come to realize that this journey, though undoubtedly one of the toughest I’ve ever embarked on, is also the most fulfilling.
Through adversity, I’ve discovered strength I never knew I possessed. Every obstacle overcome, every setback endured, has only fueled my determination to press forward. And as I continue to navigate this challenging path, I carry with me the enduring wisdom and love of my father, guiding me through the darkest nights and inspiring me to never give up.
In 2006, amidst a world pulsating with innovation and digital expansion, I was a single Mom of 5 amazing sons, and a woman of faith. I left a high-paying corporate job to work for a Christian College. It is there that I embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the world of media. This is how the Loretta McNary Show came to life: a narrative woven with determination, passion, and the desire to make a difference.
Loretta’s journey began in a small yet cozy corner of her world, in Memphis, TN, where dreams were nurtured by her parents, the warmth of ambition and the light of inspiration. With a heart full of faith and a mind buzzing with ideas, Loretta saw the potential in using media as a powerful tool to inspire, educate, and empower. She envisioned a platform that was not just about entertainment and celebrity interviews but also about making a positive impact on the lives of others.
The inception of the Loretta McNary Show was a challenging feat. It required a big leap of faith and a steadfast commitment to make this dream a reality. Armed with a shoestring budget and an unyielding spirit, Loretta set out to create a meaningful and engaging show. Loretta credits her Time Warner/Comcast producer, James Michael, for helping her make her dream a reality. On December 03, 3006, James Michael became her first Director and Production Crew. He and 2 other cameramen from Bountiful Blessings Church’s Media Ministry filmed her first live taping with 3 of the best broadcast cameras in the Auditorium of Chrichton College in front of a Studio audience all on a very limited budget. My early guests were community leaders, innovators, local vocalists, and changemakers. Loretta and her Producer invited them to share their stories, challenges, talent, and triumphs on the Loretta McNary Show, which aired weekly on PAX TV.
The early days were a mix of excitement and many challenges. Loretta had to wear multiple hats – from hosting and producing to marketing the show. Each day, she learned new lessons, from understanding the nuances of broadcasting to mastering the art of storytelling. Yet, with each obstacle, Loretta’s resolve only strengthened, fueled by the positive feedback and impact her show was beginning to make.
What sets the Loretta McNary Show apart is its heart. Loretta’s genuine interest in her guests’ stories and her ability to connect with her audience created a unique bond. The show became a beacon of positivity, shedding light on important issues, showcasing success stories, and offering practical advice and inspiration.
In January 2008, we achieved a major milestone by receiving our very first Media Credentials to cover the Stellar Awards in Nashville, TN, an achievement she repeated for many consecutive years. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of an incredible journey, as Loretta’s credentials soon expanded to include prestigious events such as the NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles, CA.
These initial credentials served as a springboard, unlocking the door to an array of national awards and red carpet events across the country. From the glitz and glamour of the Night of 100 Stars in Beverly Hills to the iconic Oscars and the prestigious Kentucky Derby, Loretta’s coverage expanded to encompass a diverse range of events, including the Dove Awards, CMAs, Black Enterprise gatherings, Gospel Choir Competitions, and countless others.
With each event covered, Loretta’s passion for storytelling and commitment to excellence shone through, cementing her reputation as a trusted voice in media and entertainment coverage. Her journey from those first credentials to the multitude of events she now covers stands as a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and unwavering pursuit of excellence in journalism.
As the show grew, so did its reach. What started as a regional initiative soon garnered attention far and wide. With the advent of social media and digital platforms, the Loretta McNary Show expanded its horizons, connecting with viewers across the globe. The show became a platform for voices that needed to be heard, stories that deserved to be told, and ideas that sparked change.
The Loretta McNary Show has evolved over the years, but its core mission remains the same: to inspire, educate, and empower. Loretta McNary’s journey from dreaming in a cozy corner of her world to becoming a renowned media personality is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and the belief in the power of media to make a positive impact. Loretta tells everyone that her show is a divine assignment to bring joy, smiles, and hope to all. Today, as we look back on the journey of the Loretta McNary Show since 2006, it stands as a shining example of how one person’s vision can ignite a movement, change lives, and create a legacy that resonates with future generations.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Embarking on the creation and development of the Loretta McNary Show took a lot of work and faith. The road was paved with challenges and obstacles that tested resilience, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the show’s mission. Here are some of the struggles encountered along the way:
- Financial Constraints: Starting the show with a very limited budget meant that counting every penny. This financial constraint required creative solutions for production costs, marketing, and even securing a space for filming. It was a constant balancing act to produce quality content without compromising the show’s integrity due to financial limitations. Early collaborations were instrumental.
- Securing Advertisers: In the early days, one of the significant challenges was attracting and retaining advertisers. With countless options available, it was crucial to create compelling content and find ways to reach and grow a loyal audience. Building an audience demanded innovative marketing strategies and leveraging social media to increase visibility.
- Securing Guests: Convincing the high-profile guests to appear on a new, lesser-known show took a lot of work at first. It involved a lot of networking, persuasion, and proving the platform’s value to potential celebrity guests. The opportunity to book influential and engaging guests was an ongoing process that required persistence and building a solid reputation over time. It is no longer a struggle; several top PR agencies in NY, Chicago and LA pitch their clients to us daily.
- Technical and Production Hurdles: Without the initial luxury of a large production team, Loretta and a small team had to learn on the fly. This learning curve included understanding the technical aspects of filming, editing, and broadcasting. Ensuring the show met professional network television standards with limited resources and experience was a constant challenge. Loretta’s sons played a major part in helping to video and setup for the Show each month.
- Maintaining Relevance and Freshness: During the pandemic, we encountered one of our most daunting hurdles yet. With broadcast television networks devoting 24/7 coverage to Covid-19, our scheduled time slots were abruptly canceled, necessitating a swift pivot. In response, we made the bold decision to transition our show to a virtual format, mirroring the shift undertaken by major television programs such as GMA, Today Show, and news stations worldwide.
Initially, it proved to be a formidable task to ensure our content remained relevant, engaging, and innovative in this new virtual landscape. The dynamic nature of the media industry demanded constant adaptation and creativity, coupled with rigorous market analysis to stay ahead of evolving trends—all within the constraints imposed by the pandemic. Yet, through perseverance and ingenuity, we successfully navigated these challenges, staying true to our show’s core values while embracing the ever-changing media landscape.
Here’s another example of our pivoting. In January 2022 we launched “Mornings with Loretta,” a groundbreaking addition aimed at providing a platform for national guests to share their stories during satellite media tours. Broadcasting from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm EST, this new segment opens up a prime window of opportunity for us to reach a wider audience. Previously confined to evening interviews, this expansion not only broadens our reach but also offers our viewers a fresh perspective and an energizing start to their day.
- Personal Sacrifices: The dedication to making the show a success often meant long hours, having to sacrifice time with my sons, and juggling multiple responsibilities. Balancing personal life, financial stability, and the relentless demands of the show was a struggle that required significant resilience.
Despite these struggles, the journey of the Loretta McNary Show is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the positive impact that determination can have. Each challenge along the way was met with a relentless tenacity that contributed to the show’s growth and success. The struggles shaped the show and the character and vision of Loretta McNary, turning obstacles into stepping stones for a brighter, more impactful future.
Our journey has been graced with accolades and commendations for our impactful work and community involvement, bestowed upon us by esteemed organizations and local government bodies alike. The Loretta McNary Show stands as a beacon of excellence, garnering recognition for our unwavering commitment to both professional endeavors and civic engagement.
Through our dedication, we have forged strong partnerships and affiliations with numerous professional associations, organizations, and chambers of commerce spanning the United States. Among these esteemed alliances stands the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, a testament to our commitment to excellence in the heart of the entertainment industry.
As we continue to push boundaries and make a difference, our network of support grows stronger, fueling our passion to inspire, uplift, and empower communities across the nation. Join us on our journey as we strive for excellence and impact, hand in hand with our valued partners and supporters.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
What I do: The Loretta McNary Show is a dynamic platform that combines entertainment, education, and empowerment. At its core, the show is dedicated to illuminating inspiring stories, innovative ideas, the latest trends, and transformative brands. Through in-depth interviews, engaging discussions, and a focus on positive storytelling, we aim to uplift our audience and provide them valuable insights into various aspects of life, including health, wellness, entrepreneurship, and community service.
Specialization: Our specialization lies in creating content that resonates with people personally. We delve into topics that matter to our audience, ranging from professional and personal development to health and wellness, financial literacy, sports, technology and societal change. The show is known for authentic conversations with guests from diverse backgrounds, including thought leaders, celebrities, athletes, innovators, and everyday heroes.
What I’m known for: The Loretta McNary Show is renowned for its positive impact and ability to create meaningful connections. We are known for our compassionate approach to storytelling and our commitment to highlighting the good in the world. The show is a beacon of hope and inspiration, encouraging viewers to think positively, dream big dreams, take action, and make a difference in their communities.
What I’m most proud of: What fills me with the most pride is the tangible impact the show has had on individuals and communities locally and nationally. It is gratifying to hear stories from viewers inspired to overcome challenges, pursue their passions, or contribute to positive change because of something they saw on the show. These moments validate our mission and fuel our passion to continue our work.
What sets us apart: Our unwavering commitment to positive storytelling and our focus on community building sets the Loretta McNary Show apart. While many media platforms highlight sensationalism or controversy, we prioritize content that uplifts, educates, and empowers. Our dedication to authenticity and ability to create a genuine connection with our guests and our audience distinguish us in the media landscape. Moreover, our adaptability and willingness to evolve with the changing media environment, embracing new platforms and technologies to reach our audience, ensure that our message of positivity and empowerment continues to resonate with viewers across the globe. This blend of positive impact, community focus, and authentic storytelling is the essence of the Loretta McNary Show, and it’s what makes my work not just a job but a calling. However, my most excellent title and honor is being a Mother of 5 incredibly handsome, talented, kind, and intelligent sons!
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One surprising aspect about me that might catch those familiar with my work or my brand off guard is my early life, marked by profound shyness and introversion. Given the nature of my public-facing role on the Loretta McNary Show, where engaging with guests, speaking confidently, and connecting with a broad audience is what I do, it might seem almost paradoxical to associate me with shyness or introversion.
Growing up, I was the middle child who would much instead read a good book and immerse herself in the quiet comfort of her thoughts than be at the center of attention. Social gatherings and public speaking were far outside my comfort zone, presenting challenges that felt insurmountable at the time. This innate shyness wasn’t just about a lack of words but stemmed from a deeper place of introspection and a preference for observing rather than being observed.
However, what might appear as a surprising twist in my narrative is how these traits of shyness and introversion have played a pivotal role in shaping the empathetic, thoughtful, and nuanced approach I bring to my work today. The qualities that once made public interaction daunting have become invaluable assets in my career. My introversion has honed my ability to listen deeply and genuinely engage with my guests, allowing for conversations beyond the surface. It has fostered a sensitivity towards others’ stories and perspectives, making the Loretta McNary Show a space where guests feel seen and heard. My early shyness, while challenging, taught me the importance of preparation and the value of pushing beyond one’s comfort zone. These lessons have been crucial in the dynamic environment of broadcasting.
This journey from a shy, introverted child to a global television host known for her engaging personality, warm smile, and inclusive interviewing style is a testament to the idea that our greatest challenges can become our most significant strengths. The narrative underscores the show’s ethos of empowerment, equity, and transformation, encouraging viewers to embrace their unique paths and see the potential within their personal stories. So, while at first glance, it may seem surprising that someone who once shrank from attention now has global influence while making a difference, this journey enriches the authenticity and depth of connection that the Loretta McNary Show brings to its audience. My past, far from contradicting my present, is a foundational element of the empathy, understanding, and sincerity defining my media and communication approach.
Discover more about us: Beyond our core services, we proudly recognize and elevate over 40 unsung heroes annually at our annual prestigious black tie red carpet event, the Kindle Awards Gala. Furthermore, we foster connections and empowerment through our monthly networking event, Women on the Move, Reimagined, designed for women entrepreneurs, professionals, and retirees alike. As part of our extended family, McNary Media Network stands as our sister brand, offering a comprehensive suite of services in media relations, marketing, and branding. Join us in celebrating excellence, forging connections, and unlocking new opportunities for growth and success in your business journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Lorettamcnary.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/lorettamcnaryshow
- Facebook: facebook.com/lorettamcnaryshow
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorettamcnary
- Twitter: Twitter.com/lorettamcnary
- Youtube: YouTube.com/lorettamcnary
- Other: www.McNaryMedia.network
