With over a decade of broadcasting experience under her belt, Tinea Taylor is no stranger to the mic. Having hosted KISS FM’s Hype Charts since 2013, counting down the hottest tunes and interviewing special artist guests, she’s built a reputation as one of the most recognisable and trusted voices in the industry.
Now, she’s turning the spotlight in a different direction. Her new podcast, Dear Famous, flips the usual format on its head, inviting celebrities to step out of the spotlight and into the role of fan. The result is a series of honest, often surprising love letters to the people who’ve inspired them – proving that even the most well-known names still get starstruck.
We caught up with Tinea to talk about the idea behind the podcast, what to expect as a listener, and why seeing celebrities as fans might be more powerful than we think.
You’ve just launched a brand-new podcast – what inspired you to start it?
I have always thought about having something of my own but for many reasons the timing wasn’t right until now. I am so proud of it I could burst.
What can listeners expect from the conversations you’re having?
I have interviewed so many celebrities over the years so I knew that I wanted the concept of the podcast to have a twist. I wanted to humanise the celebrity because – regardless of who you are and what you’ve achieved – everyone is a fan of somebody. Dear Famous is fun! It’s cheeky and it’s an insight into the mind of your favourite celeb.
Having worked for major TV and radio platforms, does podcasting give you more freedom to talk about the things that really matter to you?
It gives me freedom to finally own something of my own. The concept, the set design, even down to the edits I have made every single decision. It’s something I have achieved completely on my own, with the help of a great editor and graphic designer which I sourced. I have been a broadcaster for well over a decade and never had the freedom whilst working for those platforms to do what I wanted…until now.
We all listen to podcasts in our own way – on the commute; going for a run; etc. What are you doing when you listen to podcasts?
Cooking mostly, I put on a podcast when I know I’ll be in the kitchen for 30 minutes or more. I love conversation and I find it quite soothing.
Your style always feels confident and individual. How would you describe your fashion personality?
I love fashion. I always have; I’ve never cared about following trends and whatever others are wearing I like what I like. I love colour and texture and I’m an Essex girl we LOVE to play dress up haha!
Are you someone who enjoys the process of getting ready, or do you prefer a quick, low-maintenance routine?
I’m a skincare girl face and body, I love an everything shower, I always try different serums, oils and moisturisers. I love getting my hair and make up done but when somebody else is doing it. Love the whole glam process and to be pampered.
Working in media can come with pressure to always look a certain way. Have your views on beauty and self-confidence shifted as you’ve got older?
I cared so much more when I was younger and just starting out. I look back at pictures of myself and can’t believe I never use to wear my hair out, always wore wigs, always covered up its natural state because from young society teaches young Black girls that straight hair is better which is just nonsense. I’m a lot more confident now and bolder in my hair, make up and fashion choices.
As a presenter and DJ, you’ve spent a lot of time in fast-paced environments. How do you unwind and switch off when you’re not working?
If I’m not in the gym, at Pilates or on a long walk I rot on my sofa haha! LOVE a rotting Sunday it’s my fave. Snacks, a good film/tv show whilst my Sunday dinner is cooking.
Music has clearly been a big part of your life through DJing. What kind of tracks instantly lift your mood when you need a boost?
Favourite Dance track of all time is Alison Limerick – Where Love Lives, always puts me in a good mood. I’m also a Millennial so any 2000’s RnB always lifts my mood and the song are so nostalgic.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about career, confidence or life in general, what would it be?
I always say this but I’d tell her to be patient, everything happens when it’s suppose to. I’d tell her that she is going to have the life and love that she has always dreamt of. That God is going to exceed all of her expectations and more.
Finally, what are you most looking forward to doing this week?
I go away for a few days much needed break, so looking forward to that – oh, and releasing another episode of Dear Famous xoxo
Listen to Dear Famous on Acast and Apple Podcasts.
