Today we’d like to introduce you to Cary Street.
Hi Cary, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Born in Southern Kentucky, my family moved to Nashville in 1972; my father was hired to work at Opryland. Both my parents were professional musicians, so I grew up in the business. I attended King College (University) in Bristol, TN and Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY, and continued dancing during that time. During that time, I worked as a stringer for the Associated Press, as well as a reporter for local newspapers. That started my career in public relations and marketing.
After starting my family, I worked for the University of Tennessee in their graduate engineering program. It was an off-campus program offering master’s degrees for non-traditional students. I marketed the programs and recruited all the students, which honed my business development and public speaking skills. It was during my time at UT that I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in English. From that point on, all of my positions involved the growth of government agencies, professional services companies or not-for-profit organizations. I also continued dancing, either through choreography or on-stage. I laugh and say that it was my therapy!
Today, I operate 2-Way Street Communications, a boutique public relations and business development firm, as well as co-manage Apex Strategies Nashville, a media and marketing agency. But my passion for dance has never waned. I am certified in tap, ballet, jazz and acrobatic dance through the Southern Association of Dance Masters and the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, as well as teach at Elite Academy of Dance in Hermitage. I freelance teach and choreograph dance for events, and I have started a small knitwear company called Key Creations.
All of my endeavors would not be possible without the support of my family and friends. One thing that I have learned is that supporting others and showing kindness and forgiveness will always garner rewards.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No one can experience the various careers and experiences with addressing obstacles and how to overcome them, and it has been a struggle at times. In many ways, it has been more difficult the older I get. I have discovered that kindness is not necessarily considered an asset in the traditional business world. I have been talked down to, insulted and ignored. Knowledge and experience are wanted if they are given free of charge, but if a price is attached to that information, then that information suddenly has no value. The lesson learned: do not sacrifice your principles nor stop being kind to appease someone else’s insecurities. You have to live with YOU!
Additionally, there is a misperception that people of a certain age are not adaptable, cannot learn technology, and have “old” ideas and business ways. That is so far from the truth! We have watched the business world change to a digital format, but we also know the value to pen and paper. We still prefer face-to-face interactions since body language speaks volumes that cannot be shared in an email. We know how to shake a hand, read between the lines in a letter, and know how to maneuver the intricacies and pitfalls of social media. Don’t count us out!!! We have a lot we still want to achieve, and much that we want to share!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Communication is an art. It is the art of words, the art of listening, the art of speaking, and most importantly, the art of understanding. This is very much a part of public relations, marketing and business development. Communication skills are incorporated into all areas of business, but they have been segregated into the areas of internal and external communications – limiting its overall effectiveness.
Having worked in and understanding all areas touched by “communications,” I have effectively bridged the gaps that remain when only one “genre” of business development/marketing/public relations is addressed by an organization. It is important to recognize that one area complements another, but it will not replace that component. Understanding that a word can spark an image which can provide the catalyst to create an entire message or campaign is a valuable skill, and one for which I am extremely grateful.
In addition, I have successfully planned and executed restaurant openings, corporate events, concerts and fundraisers, as well as small events celebrating employees, holidays and “just because” events. From designing the theme, writing the press release, coordinating and prepping for media and interviews, to merchandising, entertainment, providing photographic and video services, and contracting vendors, I pride myself on my attention to detail and thinking outside the box for a unique experience.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My father was in the orchestra of the original touring company of “A Chorus Line.” My mother, who introduced me to the wonderful world of dance and theatre, took me to see the show. It began my love affair of dance and theatre which continues today!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.2-waystreetcommunications.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2waystreetcommunications
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-foust-street-b785779/
- Other: https://www.apexstrategiesnashville.com/
