Meet Crystal Taylor | Content Specialist | Podcast Host

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
That question has followed me through every chapter of my career. I’ve had moments where I felt stuck or unsure if I was in the right place professionally. I’ve moved around a lot trying to find the right fit in my 9 to 5, and each transition taught me something new about what I value, what I’m good at, and what kind of environment allows me to grow. But one thing that has always helped me find clarity is leaning into my passion projects.

Starting Clicks and Cliques and building Taylormade Strategy as a freelancer gave me the space to reconnect with my creativity. It reminded me that my worth isn’t tied to a job title and that I have the power to create something meaningful on my own terms. Those projects have been my outlet, my motivation, and my reminder that I’m capable of more.

Over time, I’ve learned that choosing to walk away from something that no longer serves you is not failure. It’s an act of courage. You don’t always know what’s next, but staying open to new possibilities has helped me navigate uncertainty with more confidence. I’m 29, and I’ve had to learn that it’s never too late to start something new, explore a different path, or redefine what success looks like.

So now, when I’m faced with the question of whether to keep going or let go, I ask myself: Am I growing? Am I inspired? Am I being true to myself? If the answer is no, then it might be time to shift. But if there’s still a spark, even if things are hard, that’s usually my sign to keep going.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
If there’s one thing that defines my career journey, it’s my ability to roll with the punches. I pursued marketing and communications right out of college and jumped in headfirst as a social media manager. I was finally hitting my stride and feeling like things were falling into place when I was laid off in March 2020. Everything came to a stop, and like many people, I had to figure out what came next.

The year that followed was difficult. I felt deflated and unsure if I wanted to rejoin the industry. I had moments where I questioned my path and wondered if I was meant to be doing something else. Eventually, I decided to give it one more try. I re-entered the field at a lower level than where I had been, and it wasn’t easy. But I stayed focused, proved myself, and began to truly dig into my craft.

That season of rebuilding taught me so much. I found a renewed passion for storytelling, both through my full-time work and my freelance projects under Taylormade Strategy. I started to see storytelling not just as a tool, but as a skill I could sharpen and lead with. I’ve grown into someone who knows how to create connection, bring clarity to complex ideas, and help people see themselves in the messages they receive.

What sets me apart is my resilience, my adaptability, and my commitment to authenticity. I don’t just work in marketing and communications—I believe in its power to move people. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and even prouder of the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

I want the world to know that your journey doesn’t have to look perfect to be powerful. It’s okay to start over. It’s okay to pivot. And it’s always okay to bet on yourself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Metro Detroit, I’d want them to experience the city the way I do. We’d mix history, culture, food, and creativity while supporting the small businesses that give Detroit its heart.

We’d start the week by visiting the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History or the Detroit Historical Museum. I always think it’s important to understand the history of a place before you dive into everything else. Detroit’s story is layered, and learning more about it helps you appreciate what makes this city special.

After that, we’d ease into the day with a coffee run. The Congregation is one of my go-to spots with its chill vibe and beautiful setting. Cairo Coffee is another great option with its unique flavors and attention to detail. I’m always looking for ways to support small businesses, especially those rooted in the community.

Brunch at The Block is non-negotiable. The food is consistently good, the playlist is on point, and the atmosphere just feels like Detroit. We’d also make time for dinner at Baobab Fare. The food is incredible, and the story behind the owners makes the experience even more powerful. Takoi would be another must-visit for dinner. The menu is creative, and the energy inside is unmatched.

Throughout the week, we’d check Instagram accounts like @socialnthecity to see what’s going on around town. That’s my favorite way to find pop-ups, local art shows, food truck events, and markets. There’s always something happening if you know where to look, and I love showing people that side of Detroit.

One night, we’d head to Spotlight to catch a good DJ set. It’s a space that celebrates music and creativity, and it always feels like you’re part of something cool when you’re there.

Detroit has a rhythm to it that you can’t really explain until you experience it for yourself. It’s creative, welcoming, and full of people who take pride in where they’re from. That’s what I’d want my best friend to feel by the end of the trip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people who have poured into me over the years, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am without them. First and foremost, I want to thank my husband, Bradley Taylor. He is my biggest cheerleader, my sounding board, and my calm in the chaos. He’s supported every idea, every pivot, and every new creative venture without hesitation. Knowing I have someone in my corner who genuinely believes in me has made all the difference.

I also owe so much to my family. They have always shown up for me, especially during college when I needed both emotional and financial support. They’ve been my foundation through every high and low, and their encouragement has pushed me to keep going even when things got tough. They always made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to, and that confidence has carried me far.

And I can’t forget my friends, who consistently speak my name in rooms I’m not even in. That kind of love and advocacy means everything. Whether it’s sending me opportunities, recommending me for projects, or just checking in to make sure I’m still dreaming big, my friends keep me grounded and inspired.

I’m incredibly grateful for the people in my life who have shown up with love, support, and encouragement. Every win I’ve had is also theirs. This journey wouldn’t be what it is without them.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystaltaylor06/

Image Credits
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