1. If your company had its own signature cocktail, what would it be called and what ingredients would it have to represent your brand?
Melinda – I’m a moscato type woman mostly. However, I will partake in a cranberry vodka beverage with a splash of Red Bull every now and then. Ingredients: Kettle One, Cranberry juice, and Red Bull. Don’t let me get spicy and blend a flavored one in there. lol I would call it “de Santi”. The vodka for the punch of who I am, the cranberry for the flavor of what I do, and the Red Bull for the energy I bring.
2. Given your multifaceted role as the CEO of The Santiago Firm and President of Santi Media Group, how do you find the balance between overseeing the business aspects and staying creatively involved in Santi Films, Santi Books, and Santi Music.
Melinda – I just am organized. It’s prioritizing projects. Staying on track, the balance is found because when you have organization, you rarely drop the ball. There’s no constant need for chaos. lol. As long as you know who you are and your limits, you can navigate thru spaces with ease and confidence. You get a good solid team and become a unit. I’m a creative, so I’m constantly getting ideas, writing them out, envisioning them, then throwing some ideas away and redirecting. I don’t stay on social media. I post and get off. I don’t get distracted by it or people. Most importantly, I give myself grace and know I’m human – not a machine. Things get done, and I still make time for my family.
3. Many CEOs have a signature drink they enjoy during moments of relaxation or celebration. Is there a particular beverage that you consider your official drink of choice, and does it hold any special significance for you?
Melinda – I love, love, love a sweet moscato d’asti. It just tastes great to me.
4. With your extensive experience working with notable artists like Bobby V, Scarface, and 112, what do you believe are the essential elements in building and maintaining successful and enduring partnerships in the entertainment industry?
Melinda – INTEGRITY and RESPECT are key. People have to have the same goals. I believe in everyone I work with. If their goals, practices, or work ethic don’t align with mine – I don’t work with them. I’m not in it just for a check. I really care about their livelihood and well-being.
5. Working in the entertainment industry can be demanding. What are your personal strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance while leading such a diverse and successful company?
Melinda – I’m not afraid to make mistakes, and I’m 100% accountable. In any relationship, whether work or play, when you can sleep at night knowing you are honest and doing your best, the healthy work-life balance is 100% attainable. My follow up and my communication not only show my work ethic but lessen the constant update emails and phone calls. Those I work with see what I’m doing, so it lessens the questions. When you operate from a proactive space versus a reactive space – life is much easier. You can make room for all things if you handle them properly.
