Remi Jones, creator and host of Remi TV, provides opportunity for talent to shine while promoting and advocating on behalf of the culture in the underserved community of Rhode Island.
What inspired you to launch Remi TV, the only Black-owned television talk show based in Rhode Island?
Before I started my media brand, I worked as a correspondent for a different TV show. That was the first time I interviewed artists on camera. I conducted interviews in various locations in New York City. After gaining experience, I decided that I no longer wanted to work for someone else. I wanted to have full control over the people I interviewed and the stories I got to tell. I wanted to create something I was proud of, and something that would inspire and motivate my audience to keep working on their goals. That was how Remi TV came to be.
Share with us how you prepare before taping a show.
I prepare for taping by showing up to the studio early and making sure everything is in place. I like to do microphone checks and make sure the cameras are set up and ready to go. I also want to call my guest a few hours in advance to make sure that everything is still happening and see if they have any questions.
You are not only the host but also the executive producer. Describe some of the duties that includes.
Some of the duties I have is hiring the appropriate staff, raising money for the show, and making sure that the budget of the show is met. I introduce new concepts and ideas for the show and ensure that the final product is of the highest quality. I approve all decisions on props and set changes as well.
How do you sort out potential guests? What is your process?
I believe it is crucial to provide a voice for people who do not think that their stories can be heard. Whoever wants to be on the show, I accept almost everyone.
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced so far?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced so far was not believing in myself. I went through many days, feeling like I could not do this. I thought I was not going to get support from my peers, I thought people would hate the show, and I also thought I wouldn’t make it past the first year. I wanted to quit, and I did a few times. I have a great support system. My sister in law gave me so many pep talks, and she cheers me on a lot. As human beings, we all go through doubts, but what is essential is that you break through those doubts and keep going.
You only do positive interviews. Tell us about that choice.
I decided only to do positive interviews because I use to scroll through my social media and seen a bunch of negative blogs and headlines. I said to myself I know this does not make the person in those headlines feel good. I said to myself I refuse to put out negativity. I believe that if you think positive, then positivity comes back to you. I want people to feel good when I am interviewing them. I want people to feel comfortable and at home.
How has COVID-19 affected your ability to produce your show?
COVID-19 has been a mess, but you know what they say when life gives you lemons, then you make lemonade. I did not let what was happening around me stop my flow. I continued doing Remi TV interviews on Instagram live. It has been a fantastic experience and met so many talented people just by going on live and connecting.
What advice would offer someone aspiring to follow your footsteps?
I would tell them to keep pushing and that there will be bad days and good days. I would also ask them not to be afraid to collaborate. Get together with your local producers, camera people, editors, and make it happen. Relationship building is essential and you are going to definitely need emotional support for your bad days. Last, but not least, don’t give up.
BE’N ORIGINAL
