Model Management Agency - MMA: Amanda Talijan Lights Up London

Model Management Agency - MMA is recognized as one of the most respected talent agencies in the Philadelphia and Tri-State area since it was founded in 1989.

Amanda Talijan @Mandsmania, one of MMA's many successful models, leads her blog with an adapted quote, "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." 

Talijan's selection of Norman Vincent Peale's famous motivational lines smartly matches her persistently positive outlook. This New Jersey native has also demonstrated that she recognizes one of life's greatest challenges. 

Everyone's individual equation is established through their natural gifts. The manner in which each person chooses to develop and use their talents directs us toward solutions. Answers are then creatively discovered along the way. 

Someone who's born in New Jersey doesn't just happen to begin her modeling career in Philadelphia, appear in Fashion Week in New York and then move to London in less than two years time. Luck wasn't a deciding factor in this instance. Instead, a strong person, who has a good family, built solid friendships and is blessed with the right career connections, created her uniquely inspiring real-life story. 

From the beginning 

Talijan was born in Phillipsburg, New Jersey in 1990. She grew up less than twenty minutes north in the same-state town of Belvedere. 

Her parents (Sharlenee and Gary) fully supported her choice to attend Millersville University after graduating from Notre Dame Catholic High School in 2009. So, with an impressive volleyball scholarship packed in her suitcase and focused dedication secured within her character, she began to pursue a Masters Degree in Psychology. 

"My parents have always supported me and my sisters ( Gabby, 20 and Maddie, 17). They instilled the idea that no matter what we do, we should commit to doing our best and make sure to do it 100%. I've taken that same approach toward my career. 

"I remember from a very young age that I would have conversations with people and they would explain how they felt emotionally at that moment. I always found myself wanting to understand why people felt the way that they did. Studying psychology helps me to understand more about human nature," Talijan said. 

Even though she enjoyed the subject matter, Talijan didn't feel that career path fit her current aspirations. By the spring of 2012, a meeting helped to open a new door. 

Gary Talijan was attending a dinner party when he showed a photo of his family to a friend who referred him to Ellen Wasser-Hrin (the Founder and Director of MMA/ Model Management Agency). Gary relayed the advice he received to Amanda, who was in her third year of college, and a new career was set to begin. 

Recognizing her path 

"When I chose to leave school I had this weird feeling that I wanted to do something else. But, I wasn't sure of the direction that I wanted to go in. And then I met Ellen and everything fell into place. I felt like I was at peace. I adore her. I walked out of her office and I felt that modeling was what I was meant to do next in my life," Talijan said. 

Model Management Agency - MMA began serving as Talijan's mother agency. That vital business decision allowed this model's career options to flourish. 

"I started modeling at an age where most people's careers have peaked, or are almost over. So, there were definitely times when I thought that I was so much older than everyone else when I started out. 

"Using my experiences has helped me to reason, understand and accept the ups and downs of my career. So, I really think that it benefited me to start my career later in life," Talijan said. 

Positive parental influence 

"I sat down with my parents and we talked about finishing school, or leaving and choosing to pursue a modeling career. I really put a lot of thought into the pros and cons of everything and it just played out in a way that everything happens for a reason and this is the next step. 

"My parents realized that I was taking a huge risk. But, when they met Ellen they connected with her and understood why I had such a positive outlook on this new journey. 

"Ellen is such a spiritual person. She has been in the industry for many years and is still so true to who she is. That's what gave me a positive start and without that, I probably wouldn't have continued on with this journey at all," Talijan said. 

Inside the industry 

"Modeling is an art form and the industry is so much more than being tall, thin and pretty," Talijan said. 

That statement makes what this 5' 8 1/2" model has already accomplished that much more impressive. Her rapid ascent in a highly-competitive world hasn't happened by chance. 

After working a variety of bookings through the summer of 2012, New York City was alive with her name on one particular fall day.

"I began building my book and getting the vibe of the industry. I spoke to Ellen and shared with her that I was ready to make the move to New York. Based upon my age and experience, she totally supported my decision," Talijan said. 

On her birthday (September 27, 2012) Wasser-Hrin accompanied Talijan to the Big Apple. By day's end she had contracts with a commercial agency and a high-fashion agency. 

Talijan moved to New York and appeared in presentations at Fashion Week in January 2013. She followed in the footsteps of Kate Moss and Cara Delavingne, who also stood under the traditional six foot model mark. Like those famous ladies, she also helped to break tradition. 

"At that point it was starting to get a little overwhelming. I was looking at these girls who were so much taller than me. But, I was there and doing it. So, I wanted to give it all that I had. 

"The way that it happened (in New York) was meant to be," Talijan said. 

A self-made business plan 

"After Fashion Week was over, I left the city and moved back home but continued to go on castings and book work in both New York and Philadelphia. 

What sets winners apart from those who settle for past glory is persistence and a belief in tomorrow. So, after doing a few Look books between March and May a life-changing opportunity stood dead ahead. 

"I've always kept notes. Every three months I make a list of what I've accomplished and compare it to what I've done previously. I keep track of whether I'm progressing in all areas of my life. 

"It's important to remember the positive and negative things and to not forget the little things," Talijan said. 

In transferring her experiences and hopes to physical form, Talijan was able to see a clear picture. After conferring with her mother at the beginning of August, she decided to give herself another year to see how she felt. 

London calls 

Talijan was five hours away from New York City, visiting a friend one weekend, when she received a call from her agent. She was asked to meet with London-based Lenis Model Management the next day. 

She got up at 4 a.m., drove to her agent's office, and later met with the London agency at a hotel in downtown Manhattan. 

The agent asked if Talijan had her passport and wanted to get the ball rolling. With Wasser-Hrin by her side, the atmosphere was set for the next chapter in this story to be lived. 

"I remember walking out of the room and getting in the elevator and Ellen giving me a big hug and telling me how amazing it was. (Model Management Agency - MMA then signed her with the agency in London.) 

"We call Ellen my guardian angel. She has such a good understanding of the industry. Having her by my side through all of this and being able to bounce ideas off her is great. The relationship that I have with her, I really could not be more thankful. 

"My main goal was to travel and to work in another country. It was mind-blowing that it was all happening so quickly," Talijan said. 

She flew to London on August 28, 2013. The next day she had six castings and is now working steadily. 

Wise advice 

"I feel there are so many things that you can assume about a person when you look at a picture. 

"I've made it my priority to not be Amanda the model. When I'm working, I choose to be Amanda the person. It's so much more than who you are and what you are doing," Talijan said. 

Clearly a skilled multi-tasker, she continues to pursue her Masters Degree in Psychology while working full-time as a model. Her inspiring story is far from finished, but this portion of it ends with sound advice. 

"No matter where you decide to go, it's important to know why you are doing what you are doing. Make sure that whatever you are doing makes you a better version of yourself. And, it's always important to remember who you are," Talijan said.

(My feature originally appeared on Yahoo's Voices platform in 2014.)

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Let's connect on Twitter @SeanyOB, through Facebook, or on LinkedIn. 

A Model's Life: An interview with Kourtney Reppert

(Information about Kourtney Reppert can be accessed through her Facebook page, or through her Instagram account.) 

Consider someone who values a quote from Abraham Lincoln, the humor of Adam Sandler, appreciates the depth of Schindler's List and the lightheartedness of A Night at the Roxbury.

Those are just some of the diverse influences that a model from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania discussed recently. Who is the person behind the pretty face that brightens this articles' words? You are about to discover what life is like behind the scenes in the modeling world.

Small town influences

Kourtney Elizabeth Reppert grew up in Leesport, Pennsylvania. The small town, which is about an hour from Philadelphia, is a place where everyone knows each other. The people who live there work hard and are dedicated to their families and friends.

Many people set prudent goals and then move towards them. Some think beyond what can smoothly be attained and instead strive for their dreams. Kourtney is one of those individuals.

"I want to be successful as a model, while also remaining an overall happy and grateful person," Kourtney said.

Strong family base

A solid family environment often allows someone to build their life's foundation.

"I have three older sisters (Karla, Kelly and Kristie) who are all beautiful. My Mom (Kathy) and Dad (David) are very loving and supportive. They provided me with a great childhood.

"My Mom always told me that I had a special spark. When I was three-years-old my sisters would dress me up, put make-up on me and fix my hair in pigtails."

Role models

"My Mom had a tough time growing up because her Mom passed away when she was young. She always tried to raise my sisters and I the best that she could. She is my best friend.

"Good loving parents set people up for a good life. Everything starts with the family."

Kourtney had an active social life and was a member of the cross country, swimming, field hockey and basketball teams when she was at Schuylkill Valley High School. After graduating, she decided to attend Kutztown University.

"I always had good communication skills and did well in sales. So, initially I pursued a degree in sales and marketing. I also loved softball and pitched on the team at Kutztown."

Creating a career

Kourtney adapted her career goals in 2006, after a number of people suggested that she had the qualities needed to become a model.

"I admired many people who were models when I was growing up, especially Pamela Anderson (famous for being on Baywatch). She was the girl next door."

Establishing a career in modeling is not easy. The path involves heavy competition and rejection.

"I loved what I was doing and the way I felt when I was doing it. I wasn't going to take no for an answer. In a world of no's, you can also hear yes."

In 2007, she joined ModelMayhem , which is a Facebook-style site for male and female models, photographers, as well as make-up and wardrobe artists.

Constellation Energy offered Kourtney her first paid modeling position. Following that success, she landed a number of advertising print work assignments.

Friends and frenemies

Kourtney worked through the normal trial and error period that everyone experiences during the initial stages of their careers. But, she kept moving forward by relying on her well-formed instincts.

"You have to have a tough skin in the business. It was hard at first and you have to be on top of your game. The support of my family and friends has been very important to me along the way."

Kourtney Reppert: A Model's Life – Part 2

Diversifying her interests

Kourtney deepened her career potential when she obtained an Esthetician's license at the Lancaster School of Cosmetology in 2010. The training she received in the cosmetic care and treatment of skin and hair, allowed her career to expand.

Obtaining the designation allowed Kourtney to use her skills and experience to help women make their best beauty choices. It also empowered her to offer the Ivo Pitanguy skin care line to many individuals.

"My license allows me to offer a range of professional applications. Through this work I'm able to make people feel good about themselves, which makes me feel good about myself."

Kourtney also noted that Ivo Pitanguy donates one hundred percent of their profits, from the line that she promotes, to charitable causes.

The importance of a good photographer

"If the connection isn't good, it's like a bad date."

At times, a photographer can get a great shot when a shoot first begins. At other times, many hours might be needed until the perfect image is captured.

"dms graphix photography has shaped my modeling career. They are amazing people to work with. It's all about that connection with the photographer and timing when the pictures are being taken."

Experience and preparation

Years of training and focused preparation allows the best professional experience to take place.

"On the day of a shoot, I wake up, take a cold shower and do a mini-workout. Then, I relax for a bit before heading out. Depending on the job, I might do my own makeup. If a make-up artist is provided, that person will help me prepare at the site of a shoot."

One element that can't be seen when looking at photographs that have been taken is the music that was playing during a photography session. Music can establish a mood that helps a model transition into a mental state of preparedness.

"Music makes you feel. Certain songs affect certain people in positive, or negative ways. I like to choose my own music for a shoot, because doing so gives me more energy during it."

Kourtney puts her self into a state of mind using methods that are similar to professional actors. She sifts through past experiences that allows her to generate emotional responses. Those responses then create different looks that can be captured by the camera.

"I'm a character playing myself, or I'm myself playing a character. Modeling is a way to express yourself.

"If I'm in love, I show it to the camera. If I'm sad, that emotion will be seen. If I'm happy, my smile is endless."

Sports highlights

Kourtney's images have appeared on the Philadelphia Flyers website and on a Philadelphia Phillies' opening day poster.

"I was a tomboy growing up, so naturally I wanted to do a shoot that involved sports.

"The only reason I could stay up late when I was younger is because my Dad would let me watch hockey. I would always want to watch the (Philadelphia) Flyers."

Building her port

In the modeling business, the term 'port' is used as a shortened form of the word portfolio. A portfolio contains a person's professional work.

"My main goal is to get exposure in popular print magazines. Many career doors can open when that happens."

Reflecting and looking forward

Kourtney's professional career has expanded greatly during the past few years. Her experiences have created new opportunities that she continues to pursue each day.

"I have traveled a lot. Flew in private plane and went to a private island. I visited the Playboy Mansion and have met amazing people in the worlds of sports and entertainment."

Never one to be satisfied with her accomplishments, Kourtney is continuing to move forward with a positive spirit and a focused mind.

"I have grown a lot over the years and it has been a nice ride so far. I think attitude is everything and I have learned that you always have to keep working harder as you pursue your dreams.

"There is something inside of me that tells me to keep going. If you love something and you are good at it, why stop?"

(Information about Kourtney Reppert can be accessed through her Facebook page, or through her Instagram account.) 

(I hold all copyrights to this article which originally appeared on Yahoo's Voices platform in 2011.)

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Let's connect on Twitter @SeanyOB, through Facebook, or on LinkedIn. 

Erin Como Reveals Her Timeless Model for Success

"I'll never forget the feel of excitement in the air." - Erin Como 

Interview by Sean O'Brien  

I had the opportunity to interview Erin Como, who is a reporter for Fox 17 Nashville.

As she shared her experiences with me, it quickly became apparent why she has rapidly achieved success in a very competitive media world.

From Como's earliest childhood days, through her education and diversified work experience, she consistently mentioned how she liked helping people. Every truly accomplished person who I have ever met has always noted that same point.

And with that, her story begins...

Hello Philly

Como's family moved from Richmond, Va., to Bensalem, Pa., when she was four-years-old.

Her father David Como, who is a licensed clinical social worker, became an Administrator for the Philadelphia's Northeast Community Center.

Her mother, Patricia Trautman Como, became a Director at Head Start.

She has one older sister, Leah, who is married and is a fifth grade teacher in Havertown, Pa.

Como recalls that her parents read the newspaper every day when she was growing up. The day's events would often be discussed at dinner each night.

"My parents always wanted to know what my sister and I thought about what was going on in the world," Como said.

"Because they were always trying to help people to better themselves, keeping up with the world around them was important to them."

Building her foundation

Her parents influence clearly helped form her social consciousness.

"I always enjoyed organizing parties and events when I was little. When I was in fifth grade, I remember starting a club. When we had a talent show in seventh grade, I asked the teacher if I could host it.

"I was President of my class and the anchor of our television network through all four years at Bensalem High School."

Como would often help her father obtain food donations for the Community Center. She also volunteered for four years on the Oxford Valley Mall Teen Board.

Teen Board programs were first started by Rainbow Promotions in East Coast regional malls in 1990. They provide volunteer and educational opportunities for young men and women, between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, to represent and work with local malls to produce fashion shows, create special events and participate in community service projects.

Education

Because of her close family ties, it was natural that Como chose to enroll at Temple University.

"I wanted to go to a school that allowed me to go home for dinner on Sundays.

"In the back of my mind I wasn't sure if I wanted to become lawyer, so I double-majored in Broadcast Journalism and English."

She worked as a legal assistant at a law office in Center City, Philadelphia during her junior year. But, the boredom that she felt made her realize that she needed to pursue a more interesting career path.

During her senior year she interned for Jeff Kolakowski, who was the Assignment Manager at CBS 3.

"I worked on the news desk and went out twice a week to work with their nightside reporters.

"One time I went with Walt Hunter (who is a veteran investigative reporter) to a meth lab bust. I'll never forget the feel of excitement in the air. That was where I fell in love with breaking news."

Because she was a double-major, Como also took a second internship. She did that at NBC 10 during the summer of 2006.

Collegiate scholars

Como graduated in the top ten percent of her class at Temple, with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Broadcast Journalism and English. Her accomplishment earned her a place in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.

"NBC 10 Philadelphia offered me a position as a production assistant in September 2006, and promoted me to weekend overnight assignment editor in January 2007.

"I was just turning 23-years-old and had to work from midnight to 9am. I made a decision to choose my career over a busy social life."

Her internship experience, combined with past marketing positions and work as a promotional model, allowed for a smooth transition into a full-time career in broadcast journalism.

Professional experience

Como performed a variety of behind-the-scenes roles during her first year on the job. She ran news scripts into the studio for the 4, 5 and 6 o'clock newscasts, assisted at the assignment desk, welcomed guests to the studio and answered phones.

She also served as Tracy Davidson's intern, in her consumer department, and helped to field produce the stations 'Backyard Weather' segments with Doug Kammerer.

"There is so much research and time that goes into a newscast. Research must be done, facts need to be checked, sources have to be contacted.

"As a weekend overnight assignment editor and field producer, I was learning the business from the ground up."

Get-it-done attitude

Producing television news is a never-ending grind and consistent hard work is needed to produce excellent on-air results.

"You are helping people to get their product on the air, so you have to have a get-it-done attitude.

"You always need to ask yourself questions like: Who can I call? What facts can we check to enhance the story? Can we interview someone who no one else has thought of? Can we contact a witness, or find an element, to make the story into an exclusive?"

After a year of consistently producing solid results, Como became a full-time overnight assignment editor. That position gave her the responsibility of processing all overnight breaking news and preparing stories for the morning reporters.

Within another year, she became a daytime planning and assignment editor.

Professional mentors

"I've been really lucky to have worked with a lot of people who have been very helpful and have wanted to see me succeed."

One of Como's career mentors has been Dawn Timmeney, NBC 10 Philadelphia's Emmy-winning news anchor, who she credits with helping to develop her own broadcasting abilities.

Camille Cwienkala is another individual who she acknowledged as being key to her development as a journalist. Cwienkala, currently is Director of Operations at LNS (Local News Service) and was a former assignment manager at NBC10 Philadelphia when Como first began working.

"Camille is so smart and hard working. She showed me how to be an assignment editor and also helped me to develop my own on-air presence."

Chris Blackman, who is the News Director at NBC 10, is another of Como's mentors.

"He is so accessible and such a talented leader. Three years ago, I showed him a tape when I auditioned to be a traffic reporter. He was honest and told me that I was not ready at that time. So, I asked him what I could do to improve."

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Erin Como Reveals Her Timeless Model for Success - Part 2

"People want to feel that what they are doing in the world matters." - Erin ComoThe mark of a professionalComo used Chris Blackman's advice about enhancing her on-air presence as a learning experience.

In addition to taking voice lessons, she gained on-air experience by working for Philly.com in 2008. She began hosting 'Down the Shore', which is the website's internet-based information series that is set at various New Jersey shore points.

Those experiences helped her to build a better on-camera presence, find her broadcast voice and to hone her reporting skills.

"I was confident behind the scenes, but I had been somewhat shy on air. I learned to be persistent and to not give up," Como said.

"Chris always made time to critique the tapes that I gave him. Then, last summer, he said that I was ready to audition again for the traffic position."

In March 2011, she began filling in part-time and is now NBC 10 Philadelphia's weekend shore traffic reporter.

As a result of her efforts over the years, Como has been honored with two NBC Ovation awards. In November 2007, she was recognized for her outstanding team work. In November 2008, she was recognized for use of imagination in her work.

Work ethic"I've learned that being persistent, working hard and never turning down an opportunity can lead to success."

In the summer of 2010, Como worked full-time at the NBC 10 Assignment Desk and hosted the 'Down the Shore' show on Philly.com.

She also became a weekend host for Borgata TV, which is the Atlantic City-based Borgata Hotel, Casino and Spa's website channel.

"Whenever they had celebrity guests, I would conduct red carpet interviews.

"I had the opportunity to interview many people, including Twilight's Kellan Lutz, True Blood's Joe Manganiello and television personality Mario Lopez."

Because her experience has been so positive, she is open to becoming an entertainment reporter in the future.

On-air success

Successful broadcast journalists are knowledgeable, project confidence, are well spoken and understand that they are one part of a large group of skilled professionals.

"You have to be a team player and work well with your producers, writers, photographers and editors. A quality newscast involves a large group of talented people. In addition, because there is a performance value to being on air, you have to be in control of the situation in case you need to adapt during a broadcast."

How the media benefits society

The media serves many positive roles in today's society. It often generates discussion on important topics and provides information that the public might not otherwise have.

"I am honored to be part of an industry with so many people who are truly passionate about being quality journalists.

"In the Philadelphia area we cover a lot of crime, but I love the stories about people who are making a difference in their communities. By covering these people, we are able to show that one person can create positive change."

Beyond work

In addition to her career, Como also devotes time to volunteer work. She uses her skills, along with her own creative talent in a variety of ways.

"About six months ago I got involved with RAW:natural born artists . I help that organization of artists, musicians, actors, photographers, models, painters and jewelry designers by handling public relations, hosting the monthly Showcases at G Lounge and by interviewing the artists about their work so they can have a professional media kit to help them network.

"Our mission is to provide independent artists of all creative genres, with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity.

"RAW connects people so that they might grow together, while also providing them with opportunities to give back to their own local youth communities through the arts."

Como also emceed Jenna Communications Halloween Charity auction last October.

Jenna Communications is a Philadelphia-based public relations, event planning and media training company that is led by Jennifer Sherlock.

Looking to the future 
Como offered some advice for those who would like to work in the media.

"Work hard. If you want something, go for it. Take the entry level position and be willing to sacrifice if you want to achieve your goals.

"Success happens so differently for everyone. Before there was a formula. You would graduate from college and then work in a small market, until you were ready to progress to a larger market. These days, with the influence of the internet, old models no longer work as they had in the past."

Como concluded by reflecting on her values and looking ahead to the future.

"There are so many different ways that you can help people. I am so thankful to have found a career that I love and that also allows me to help others.

"Someday I would like to get married and have children, but right now my focus is on working toward my goals. My career goal is to continue to be a good journalist and ultimately I would love to be an anchor.

"People want to feel that what they are doing in the world matters."

Three, two, one...

The media, along with the rest of our society, continues to evolve rapidly.

What we see as commonplace today will change within the next year, or few years. But, some things will likely never change.

Talent, hard work and a strong ethical foundation will continue to allow certain individuals to adapt and thrive.

Keep an eye on Erin Como, because she is one of those people.

(I hold all copyrights to this article which originally appeared on Yahoo's Voices platform in 2011.)

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My illustrated children's book: Maddie: Teaching Tolerance with a Smile officially became a Top 10 Amazon best-seller as of January 29, 2014. The print and ebook editions were initially released in August, 2014.

Children's Alopecia Project

50% of all proceeds from the sale of our book (in both print and ebook forms) are being donated to the Children's Alopecia Project (CAP).

What a ride

This incredible and unexpected ride began in the spring of 2011. By August 2013, the book was published by the Children's Alopecia Project in print form. We have been very pleased with sales of that edition. Use, or share, this link --->>Maddie: Teaching Tolerance with a Smile to purchase the printed book directly from CAP.

I published a special ebook edition within weeks of the print book release. After starting in the tens of thousands (in terms of Amazon's children's book rankings), Maddie broke into the Top 50 just prior to Christmas. It climbed through the 30s and settled in the upper 20s before breaking into the Top 10.  

Use, or share, this link --->>Maddie: Teaching Tolerance with a Smile to see a 'free-view' of the special ebook edition. I've included extra bonus features in this version that provide background information, extra photos, and illustrations. Each item helps to tell the complete story of this book's birth. 

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Thank you to Stacey Stauffer (Fox 29 Philadelphia). She interviewed Madison Woytovich, her parents (Jeff and Betsy Woytovich) and me about the latest chapter in this inspiring story. Here's a video link to Stacey's wonderful feature. 

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Amazon.com is the number 1 online publishing platform in the world. That's why I used it to publish my first ebook: Fast Fiction and Other Stuff.

This mini-tome is a collection of stories and poems for readers who don't take themselves too seriously. I hope that you enjoy it and am always interested in your feedback. 

Let's connect on Twitter @SeanyOB, through Facebook, or on LinkedIn.