I first met Beverly Mahone on Ryze a couple of years ago, in one of their many networks. We didn’t talk often, and then we hooked up on Twitter and now we talk all the time. She has quite a background in media relations, and has some fairly high powered clients, who are doing well these days.

1. What is BAM Enterprises Media Consulting?

I am a media expert whose purpose is helping others learn how to gain media exposure.

2. What made you decide to go into this business?

It was only logical that I would go in this direction since I spent more than 25 years in radio and television news. I know what the journalists are looking for when it comes to people seeking publicity. I still have quite a few friends in the industry who can help me help my clients.

3. What types of challenges have you had along the way?

The hardest challenge has been getting people to trust me and believe that I can deliver. Sadly, there are a lot of folks passing themselves off as media experts and some of them give a bad name to the REAL professionals. Some people also charge way too much for a "possibility." My rates aren't cheap but I do make guarantees and my clients will tell you they get what pay for.

I'd be lying if I said being an African-American hasn't been a challenge because it has. But once my clients get to know me and my work ethic, they see that I'm no different than someone else they may have considered. You just have to get them to see through their own blindfolds.

4. Have the positives outweighed the negatives, and if so, how?

The positives have, by far, outweighed the negatives. Through word of mouth my business has skyrocketed in the last year! Not only have I gained new clients but I have also formed partnerships and made numerous valuable connections along the way. Having a wonderfully supportive husband also helps because when the money wasn't coming in, he was still by my side encouraging me and picking up the financial slack.

5. What would you recommend for anyone looking to go into business for themselves?

The one thing I tell people is to find something you have a sincere passion for---something you wouldn't mind doing for FREE. I know that when you love what you do and do what you love, you're going to reap huge rewards in the long run. Another thing is, there is no such thing as an overnight sensation--no matter what the media tells you. It takes hard work, determination, perseverance and a few tears to make it work and that won't happen in a day, a month or maybe not in a year. But don't give up.

Also, don't go into your business "blindly." Have a plan. You only fail if you fail to plan.