It all started when I was in the seventh grade that I decided that I wanted to go into TV Journalism. I watched MTV’S downtown Julie Brown, & other cool tv programs that inspired me to become an On-air tv personality and writer!
One day, my mom said she knew someone from high school named Mark Spain. Someone that anchored Fox 8 newscast & she would take me there to visit & take a tour! It was then that I knew I would listen to his advice & earn my Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Broadcast Journalism & go on to finish my Master’s Degree!
During my Kent State University days, I worked at the college radio & tv station learning many skills that would take me far! I also interned at WEWS TV 5, where I covered Cleveland Browns practice & locker room interviews!
Photo courtesy of Ciarra Nelson
Then I have worked for NBC in Iron Mountain, Michigan, then WKBN in Youngstown, Ohio where I did live shots & covered local news. I also worked for WOIO Channel 19News behind the scenes, which is the Cleveland Television Network with local greats such as Ben Holbert, Amy Castelli & Barry Riley! In addition, I’ve worked for the City of Cleveland’s TV station TV20 and WKYC NBC Channel 3 & many more great places!
I’ve interviewed Mayor Frank Jackson, Hollywood’s Tyler Perry, Grammy Winner Drake & plenty of other celebrities!!!
I’m grateful to God for my awesome career!!! And my Mom Pat, Dad Bob, Brother Bobby Jr (Tony Rizzo) MVP played football with Cleveland Sims Raiders with NFL player Ted Ginn jr! And my grandma Adelaide Beckham!
Photo courtesy of Ciarra Nelson
Tell us about your national TV appearances.
Well…I was on the Steve Harvey Show for being the worst dater in Cleveland Ohio! Worst-dater (may not be the most fun title LOL) but it fun sharing my fun and crazy dating life at the time! Then even got engaged on the show! My Mom, aka best-friend, was on the show as well and now has a new book sharing the knowledge and tips to scoring a happy and rewarding relationship, and or marriage! For a copy of my ebook that is launching soon—follow me on my Instagram @theonlysaphaira (saphaira is a love name my parents gave me at a young age)
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a TV journalist & I interview great people & tell phenomenal people! I specialize in entertainment & enterprise reporting mostly inspirational profile stories!!! I’m most proud of my persistence!!! I never give up!! If I fall…I get up dust myself up & start again!!!
I am a person who is optimistic and I Always believe in “where there is a will, there is a way!!! (Smiles)