Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Dean
Hi Melanie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a true San Antonio Latina with tons of love for my culture and my city! Born and raised by a fantastic family, I learned the best of both worlds growing up in The Alamo City. My family was loving and enthusiastic about my growth. My parents were full of faith and love and my siblings were my best friends. In our household, we loved to laugh and I believe laughter and a sense of humor blessed the start of my career. First, I was a server at beloved restaurant named Bennigan’s. If you know that restaurant, you may be older like me. I loved being a server. I always push for the younger generation to do the actual work of customer service. Best lessons in work and life! Next, I was hired at KTSA Radio to be a Traffic Reporter, a News Anchor and then finally, a Talk Show Hostess. I worked alongside DreX in The Morning with Miss Ree and Petey! In just a blink of an eye, DreX, Petey and I left to start our new show in Chicago and a whole new life began with wonderful memories and extra family made. I returned to San Antonio after 10 years on air and began a family. Plus, I reunited with my own family because we all lived in different cities/states so our goal was to be back home and spend more time together. Once I returned home, I continued with Marketing and went back to my roots. I love being a connector and I love knowing my favorite city in the world. San Antonio is very special and full of excitement. I am always proud to brag about our city and I love the people here. Today, I market for multiple companies and I connect as many groups as I can. One thing has always remained true, I am very loyal and very transparent. I am always happy to push for good things!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I do feel I have been blessed in my journey but it has not been a smooth road. Being a connector has it’s downside and that is when you see some unfair business that takes place. I try to work above that and make sure I pick and choose the best side of the road. I have been involved in great situations and I have sadly been involved in situations that I quickly leave. There is not supposed to be emotion in business and that is a true struggle for me. I wear my heart on my sleeve and I try to give and get equally in return but that is not always the case. My father always reminds me “don’t change who you are, always be yourself”..it’s hard to do that. People can pull the rug out from under you when you are out feeling your best. Another part that has been a huge struggle is that I lost both of my siblings within one month of each other. I was working so much and I lost sight of our pact to live in the same city and spend more time together. I focused on work and bit off more than I can chew. Once they passed, I decided I would no longer commit to more than I was capable of achieving and if things didn’t work out, I would move forward and keep my head on straight. I feel more focused than ever because I am working on smaller projects and giving it more attention now. I am also focused on my parents and my nieces. They always come first. All in all, I feel stronger today than I did two years ago. That’s finding positivity within my challenges.
As you know, we’re big fans of R4 Sports Group. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We specialize in various sports sectors, including professional leagues, collegiate athletics, and individual athlete representation. Our broad expertise enables us to craft strategies that drive engagement and revenue.
By leveraging our sports marketing expertise, you can expect to see enhanced visibility, increased fan engagement, and higher revenue streams. We collaborate with you to create customized strategies that align with your goals and audience.
We integrate sustainable practices into our sports marketing strategies. From using eco-friendly materials in campaigns to endorsing socially responsible initiatives, we aim to help you positively impact the sports community.
We have a team of amazing talent onboard.
Rick Eckerson is our President and General Counsel
Derron Eldridge is Vice President and Director of Communications and Athlete Relations
Michael Bishop is our Football Consultant and a highly decorated athlete in his every way!
One thing I want to make very clear is that we are all very adamant about transparency. We are positive with everything we offer and do for you. It is our word which is why we are all on the same team. Once you find your group has the same the goals, you run with it.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I loved sports. I played basketball, soccer, volleyball and I ran track. I wish I would have played golf more often. I am naturally competitive. I loved to run. I considered all injuries as badges of honor. I also loved spending time with family and friends. I have wonderful friends that have stood the test of time. We would toilet paper houses and have overnight stays with pizza parties. We were the typical teens at Sonic for slushees. I loved themed parties. I loved school dances. I was a giant fan of Selena. We had Selena themed birthday parties and the pictures taken back then are still so great! I loved to travel but it wasn’t very important to me. My family would hold themed dinners. Crazy hat making, pasta art, karaoke nights, all of it. I remember some of the things I loved most were spending time with my cousins. We would bake, make up dances in the garage, have birthday parties. Cousins are definitely your first best friends. I also remember having NIOSA being the BEST time of year. We prepared months in advance for Fiesta. San Antonio really nailed Fiesta. I have had friends visit during Fiesta and just feel completely blown away at the fun. Best time ever. Of course, I always round out a visit to The Alamo. The Menger Hotel. Majestic Theater! I love our downtown. Especially when it’s Christmas time. It’s really beautiful and so much fun.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.r4sportsgroup.com/team/
