Meet Shanteria Griglen: The Little Giant | Writer/Director/Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanteria Griglen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shanteria, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
As long as there’s breath in your body – you keep going! Giving up shouldn’t ever be an option. The journey to success or making your dream a reality isn’t going to be easy and I don’t think it’s suppose to be. I believe that the process is put in place to teach us humility, wisdom, endurance and build our character. I’ve learned that it’s not about YOU, it’s about what God wants to do through you.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My tagline is Authentic. Creative. Excellence. These are the three things that describe my work and what I strive to do and be every time I’m given an opportunity. I am most proud of the #MSIBMOVEMENT which includes a Monologue Troupe, Stage Play and a book! My Soul is Bleeding is my heartbeat, it’s that thing I had to have faith for. It’s the experience that God used to remind me that He was with me all the time through every trial and tribulation. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that everybody can’t go with you and you’ll have to be okay with that if you want to grow. When the world hears/sees my name or Poetizer Productions, I want them to know that my heart is in everything I produce and that my team and I strive to entertain, impact and change their lives through the arts.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Most definitely! My absolute favorite Chinese restaurant is Hong Kong House! They have the BEST CHICKEN FRIED RICE!! If we’re talking breakfast, my first go to spot is First Watch (the ambiance and food makes you want to come back). And, I have to mention one of our staples – Jackson’s Restaurant! For a dinner experience like no other, I’d have to shout out Crazy About You and, although it’s this next mention isn’t local, it’s a must – Dallas BBQ in Times Square (NY)!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be the person am today if it weren’t for my daughter, Kyonna and Ms. DuVonne Moore!! My daughter changed my life the day I laid eyes on her – I knew that I had to want more out of life. She gave me a reason to live and, for that, I will always be grateful. As for DuVonne, she has helped me when I didn’t even know I needed help. Her love and dedication for Poetizer Productions and myself is beyond comprehension. To make a long story short, she has helped me to heal what was hurting on the inside of me which as made me a better person all around.