Pursuit 365 Day 236: Lesley Diana

When you first started your career, how did you know you were ready and what made you start?

I have been blessed to have a number of careers. When I graduated from university, I was a high school physical education teacher. This led to my being a TV fitness and talk show host, which opened the doors for me to open a fitness studio, write a book and open four ladies wear boutiques across Western Canada. When the boutiques received so much publicity, a filmmaker approached me and asked me to promote the premiere of his feature film. That connection led to my current career as an entertainment publicist. We have promoted over 80 feature films and TV series and hundreds of actors.

I am always up for a challenge! As one career led into the next, I learned as much as I could in order to be the best at that career as I could be.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business?

I would have to say that each career was influenced by different people along the way. People that believed in me from my parents to school board superintendents, TV network heads to filmmakers and actors’ clients that believe in us.

What is your number one business goal to accomplish this year?

My goal this year has been to have more balance in my life. Most of my work life, I have worked 2 careers. This year I have made fitness and my lifestyle a priority.

What do you have going on that you’d like to share?

In 2022 I have had more opportunities to produce and book talent for entertainment radio and TV series. Although it wasn’t necessary a goal but when I was asked to be part of the shows I jumped right in with great results.

Where do you see yourself in five years? How do you envision your future?

I envision that The Promotion People will continue to promote feature films, TV series and actors’ careers, keeping open to new opportunities that present themselves or that we want to go after. I have a great team that works so well together, and I look forward to keeping them. On a personal side I’d like to travel more and keep up with my fitness and healthy lifestyle.

What is your favourite thing about what you do in your career and why?

There are so many things that excite me from new opportunities, to working with new talent, to getting our clients great press. I love the days when I shout our “YES” to great results.

Do you have a mantra or phrase you live by? What is it?

“Live Your Best Life” (Actually a quote from Oprah magazine but I try to live by it).

What is your number one priority when it comes to your career and daily work?

My number one priority is maintaining balance and doing the best job I can for our clients.

What keeps you motivated on a daily basis? I meditate and exercise everyday. I find that keeps me motivated, happy, healthy, and having energy for people close in my life. I went through many years putting all my effort into my work and neglecting my needs leaving no energy for myself at the end of the day. I decided a few years ago to become one of my own clients, meaning that I devote a number of hours each day to my clients so if I can do it for them, I can do it for myself.