Eric Toliver shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Eric, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is more important than anyone. Be a person who holds true to their convictions.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Eric D. Toliver. Born and raised in Kansas City, I am first-generation college graduate having graduated from Missouri Western State University in 2017 with a Bachelor’s of General Studies in Theatre & Cinema. A Black neurodivergent multi-hyphenated creative artist who specializes in multiple mediums of media from theatre, film, television, and literature. A visionary storyteller, I am a writer, spoken word poet, content creator, and filmmaker dedicated to reclaiming the narrative for marginalized voices while my journey itself is one of resilience, brillance, and divine purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child and often as a teenager, I believed that I wasn’t enough because of my mental health diagonsis which unfortunately was an unrelated factor in the abuse I faced at the hands of my birth dad – physically, mentally, verbally, and emotionally.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one thing to my younger self, I would say: You are more than enough. You will go on to do amazing and unspeakable. The world is desparate for your voice and your creativity.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the media entertainment industry is that Black people aren’t a profitable audience – especially young adults (millennials and Gen-Z).
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am exercising my gift of speaking and creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ericdtoliver.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamedtoliver
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erictoliver93/
- Twitter: https://x.com/IAmEDToliver
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theerictoliver
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BlackRenaissanceNetwork
Image Credits
Headshots courtesy of Jackie Daniels via Kansas City G.I.F.T.
Other images courtesy of Eric Toliver Studios
