"I’m living the dream, being who I am, truly and authentically. I can’t complain at all. It’s not even work."

Tiara Williams is a self-proclaimed "little track nerd." The creator, journalist, broadcaster, and in-stadium announcer is the host of "Real Talk with Tee," and she's become a fan and athlete favorite for her genuine and insightful post-race interviews (that often involve dancing and laughing). Whether she's behind the mic, behind the camera, on the mic, or on camera, Tee brings a lightness to her reporting that puts athletes at ease. In this conversation, the former heptathlete talks about her passion for the sport and its athletes, and about how she has built "Real Talk" to what it is today, including stints at multiple World Championships, the 2024 Paris Olympics, international Diamond League meets, Athlos, and more. Plus, what it's like being one of the only Black women in the mixed zone, and where Tee hopes to go from here.

FOLLOW TEE @_realtalkwithtee

SPONSORS: 

• Volvo Cars: Click here to get an exclusive offer on a Volvo purchase or lease. (I'm completely obsessed with the XC90!)
• Lagoon: Click here to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (Emma Bates and I are both Otters!) Use code ALI at checkout for $25 off your next Lagoon order.
• UCAN: Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order.

In this episode:

• What Tee was up to at The Running Event, and how she describes her job and role in the running industry (2:10 )
• On staying authentic while building a career and brand (4:00 )
• All about Tee’s childhood, what she was like growing up, and how she got into running and sports (4:45 )
• How Tee got started in sports journalism (11:20 )
• The evolution of Real Talk with Tee (18:50 )
• What it was like interviewing Shericka Jackson at the Paris Olympics, and what it was like seeing that interview in Sprint Season 2 (27:10 )
• How Tee has found her way in the mixed zone (29:30 )
• On being intimidated by certain athletes (47:10 )
• What’s next for Tee? (51:20 )

Follow Ali:

• Instagram @aliontherun1
• Join the Facebook group
• Twitter @aliontherun1
• Support on Patreon
• Subscribe to the newsletter

SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!