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

Hi Tyler, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I do not think I will ever reach my full potential without taking risks. Personally and professionally, taking risks not only increases our chances of achieving the intended response or reward, but doing so also grows us and tests our character. The key word is ‘growth.’ In my experience, taking risks can be challenging and scary, but imagine a reality without them . . .how bland would life be? With The NUDE Podcast as a starting point, I am interested in reaching my own, magical potential, and I intend to help others do the same. This task requires a level of vulnerability and risk-taking that I refuse to turn away from.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
On May 27, 2020, I officially hit one full year of podcasting. I remember being afraid to share myself and my ideas due to my fear of failure, but pushing through has been incredibly worth it. I started The NUDE Podcast about one year ago to document my personal journey of liberation and with the intention of inspiring others to work to liberate themselves. I have always been an incredibly sensitive and expressive person; in the past, I’ve been ridiculed for it, but more presently, I have identified my sensitivity as purposeful, necessary and liberating. On the show, I express the tough lessons I learn and I describe in detail the power of owning all that you are, even the ‘negative’ things. Being vulnerable on a platform can be intimidating regardless of reach or audience. It can be difficult to tell your story and to even offer advice considering that others have the opportunity to reject you or to pass harsh judgment. Funny thing is, that same fear is also what is pushing me further. Over the past year, listeners have reached out to share how NUDE content has helped them in their personal lives, and that is the goal. The purpose is much bigger than me, so my fear doesn’t have much room to thrive. Producing episodes has certainly helped me limit my care for others’ comments on my life. I want people to know that I believe my purpose is to love myself and others fully and to provide tools so others can do the same. My brand perpetuates the understanding that we are divine beings who were created with intention and purpose. We are interconnected, so if we want to change the world, we have to start with ourselves. The NUDE Podcast is a space that confirms we are enough in every phase of the journey and that confirms change is actually constant and possible. The mission of my brand truly shines through all that do – it’s more than a brand. It’s a lifestyle dedicated to choosing love and compassion for self and for all.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Surprising to some, I am a bit of a homebody, but when I do go out I enjoy walks by White Rock Lake, exploring museums, visiting daiquiri shops, and supporting local art. I don’t frequent bars or clubs a lot, but a couple of my favorites whether it’s for nightlife or day parties are Stirr (Deep Ellum) and Level Bar (Uptown). Oh, and for brunch? I love Whistle Britches. I am still a bit new to the area, so I am making it a goal to explore new places!

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 be honored to dedicate my shoutout to my mentor, Thandi Montgomery, who welcomed me, my story and my ideas with open arms; she never hesitates to speak life into me and into my projects. I am in awe of her drive, compassion and dedication to bringing her authentic self to every setting, and I admire her constant urge to uplift others. I also would like to shoutout the author and social activist, Bell Hooks. Her book ‘All About Love: New Visions’ makes me feel unashamed about my desire to learn and embody love. Her book fuels my ability to accept myself fully and to offer all that I am to every endeavor.

Website: thenudepodcast.com
Instagram: @thenudepod
Twitter: @thenudepod