Miss Represented: Miss Grand Virginia - Maryah Samuel [Episode 69]

Summary

Podcast Summary: Miss Represented: Miss Grand Virginia - Maryah Samuel [Episode 69]

Date: March 27, 2026
Host: Lisa Opie
Guest: Mariah Samuel (Miss Grand Virginia 2025)
Duration Covered: [00:00]–[35:00]

Episode Overview

This episode of the Miss Represented podcast features an inspiring conversation between host Lisa Opie and Mariah Samuel, Miss Grand Virginia 2025. The discussion explores Mariah’s unconventional path into pageantry, the sisterhood behind the scenes, personal growth through competition, and the powerful life lessons gained from embracing challenges and reinvention.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Introduction & Background ([00:00]–[01:56])

• Lisa introduces Mariah, emphasizing her multifaceted background: Boston native, notary, fitness enthusiast, and visual artist committed to self-growth through pageantry.
• Mariah shares excitement about representing Virginia, despite being from Boston, highlighting Virginia’s history, culture, and sense of community.

Quote:

“I love Virginia. I mean, I know… I moved to other states that I didn’t really like, I’ll be honest. But Virginia was excellent. Like, the people, the food, the way you can feel the history in the city. I loved living in Virginia.”
— Mariah ([01:58])

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2. The Unique Appeal of Miss Grand ([03:00]–[04:14])

• Both agree Miss Grand empowers contestants to freely express themselves—funny, elegant, sexy—as opposed to more traditional pageants.
• They highlight the brand’s modernization via strong social media presence and influencer skills.

Quote:

“On a deep level, what I love about Grand is… you have 100% permission to express yourself… And then, on top of that, it’s one of the few pageant systems that has actually really modernized... so much that appeals to young people like me.”
— Mariah ([03:00])

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3. National Pageant Experience ([04:15]–[07:41])

• Mariah recalls her first pageant ever was Miss Grand Virginia, and she made top 20 nationally ([05:27]).
• Describes an exhilarating week full of activities (not just a weekend), hustle, and valuable networking—not just competition.
• Emphasizes that the pageant journey itself is the true prize: “The journey is the destination.” ([05:34])

Lessons Learned:

• Importance of embracing new experiences, regardless of the outcome.
• Pageantry teaches women empowerment, social media skills, and real-world influencer marketing.

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4. The Grand Business Pitch & Bringing Up the Next Generation ([07:12]–[08:57])

• Mariah shares her pitch idea (didn't get to present it officially): a pageant “sleepover camp” for younger girls—offering life skills and confidence even if they don’t pursue pageantry.
• Focus: transferable skills such as interview conduct, elevator pitches, and confidence.

Quote:

“These are skills that a pageant girl could teach to a young girl… transferable throughout their whole life, whether they choose to get into pageants or not.”
— Mariah ([08:21])

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5. Overcoming Adversity & Sisterhood Support ([09:18]–[11:17])

• Mariah recounts a crisis on finals night: forgetting her makeup at the hotel ([09:37]).
• The supportive response from fellow contestants and sponsors (including Lisa’s brand) highlights the real sisterhood in pageantry.

Quote:

“Every single girl backstage was helping me assemble… They were able to take that time for me to make sure that I was good and I was comfortable too. That was just an amazing moment… an amazing memory of girlhood.”
— Mariah ([09:42]–[10:58])

• Debunking pageant stereotypes: both agree they have never seen the cattiness often depicted in media.

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6. Intense Training & International Experience ([11:46]–[14:22])

• Mariah traveled to the Philippines to coach with CJ on perfecting stage walk and presence, after exploring Thailand ([11:51]–[13:08]).
• Emphasizes the technical and artistic aspects of the pageant walk.

Quote:

“She was able to really dial in with me… there’s a whole world of technical walking that I had never been introduced to before her.”
— Mariah ([13:15])

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7. Competing in Top 20: Facing Fear and Chaos ([14:40]–[17:19])

• Mariah describes nervousness and exhilarating chaos of walking on stage, overcoming fear by “doing it anyway.”
• Details on the quick change into swimsuit and high energy backstage, supported by coaches and peers.

Quote:

“People are really scared and they ignore that feeling and they do the thing anyway… it was an incredibly empowering experience to conquer my fear.”
— Mariah ([14:48])

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8. Miss Grand Virginia’s New Era & Advice to New Contestants ([17:22]–[21:14])

• Mariah talks about the transition to a new directorship (Yelena) and expanded opportunities.
• She emphasizes gratitude for the opportunities and connections made, encouraging others to value the journey even if outcomes aren’t immediate.

Advice:

“Just because you don’t win… it doesn’t mean you didn’t give your best. You have to be proud of the effort… With each year, you’re going to get better and better…”
— Mariah ([20:31])

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9. The Reality of Pageant Growth: Perseverance over Perfection ([21:31]–[22:23])

• Challenges the myth of instant success; most winners have competed many times.
• Encourages enjoying the improvement process, not rushing to results.

Quote:

“When you see a Miss Universe… These women have competed in 10, 15 pageants before they get to that level. You have to be in it for the experience too.”
— Mariah ([21:31])

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10. Discipline, Practice & Personal Growth ([23:23]–[27:16])

• Mariah shares her three-year journey to pageant competition, struggles with perfectionism and discipline.
• Details routines: diet, sleep, practice walks, public speaking.
• Humorously admits getting moved to the back during the group dance number: “They gave us a dance. I cannot dance…I got moved to the back pretty quick.” ([26:20])

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11. Pageant Sisterhood & Lifelong Bonds ([27:42]–[29:40])

• Started a group chat before the pageant, led to strong friendships and ongoing mutual support.
• Emphasizes the networking and collaborative opportunities both in and beyond pageant life.

Quote:

“That’s a part of the pageant that people don’t understand too, is the networking… It becomes a beautiful bond.”
— Mariah ([29:05])

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12. Gratitude & Girlhood Empowerment ([30:04]–[31:28])

• Mariah thanks Lisa for being a role model, recognizing all the unseen hard work.
• Lisa shares her mission: empowering women, fostering independence, especially financial independence.

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13. “This or That” Lightning Round ([31:32]–[34:32])

• Fun, revealing answers on topics like:
  • Virginia Crown vs. Boston Roots: “Virginia Crown.” ([31:47])
  • Discipline vs. Motivation: “Discipline.” ([32:05])
  • Logic vs. Intuition, Full Glam vs. Clean Girl Aesthetic, Runway vs. Photoshoot, etc.
• Memorable moment:

“Who I’m becoming is like, back to my childhood self… I want to be, like, crazy free spirit, nothing on me, you know?”
— Mariah ([34:06])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “The journey is the destination.” — Mariah ([05:34])
• “I was just really afraid going into it… but because they gave us such a great experience, I couldn’t have asked for more.” — Mariah ([05:27])
• “Every single girl backstage was helping me… it taught me like the lesson of sometimes you gotta figure stuff out.” — Mariah ([09:42])
• “I want to win my first pageant… but there’s nobody in this industry who that is true for.” — Mariah ([21:31])
• “Who I’m becoming is like, back to my childhood self.” — Mariah ([34:06])

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Timestamps for Important Topics

| Segment | Timestamp | |------------------------------------------|----------------| | Introduction & Mariah’s Background | 00:00–01:56 | | Unique Appeal of Miss Grand | 03:00–04:14 | | National Pageant Experience | 04:15–07:41 | | Business Pitch & Skills for Young Girls | 07:12–08:57 | | Overcoming Finals Night Crisis | 09:18–10:58 | | Debunking Pageant Myths | 10:58–11:17 | | Training Abroad (Philippines, Thailand) | 11:46–14:22 | | Walking Top 20: Courage & Chaos | 14:40–17:19 | | New Leadership & Community | 17:22–18:59 | | Advice for New Contestants | 20:19–21:14 | | Discipline & Pageant Prep | 23:23–27:16 | | Sisterhood & Group Chat Friendships | 27:42–29:40 | | Gratitude & Lisa’s Empowerment Mission | 30:04–31:28 | | This or That: Personality Round | 31:32–34:32 | | Closing & Contact Info | 34:32–35:00 |

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Where to Find Mariah

• Instagram: @ariah_samuel
• DMs open for questions about pageantry, personal journeys, and building sisterhood ([34:42])

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Final Note

This episode radiates positivity, humility, and practical wisdom on growth, friendship, overcoming fear, and the celebration of girlhood. Both Lisa and Mariah champion authenticity, mutual support, and the importance of self-belief—reminding listeners that the ultimate win is who you become in the process.

Transcript

[A]

Dive into summer with Vizkaya Swimwear. Stylish, comfortable, unforgettable. Make a splash with Vizkaya Swimwear. Discover your beauty with Lady Code Cosmetics. Bold colors, flawless finishes. Unleash your confidence with Lady Code. Hello, and welcome back to season three of Misrepresented. I am so excited to be back. I definitely missed you guys. And before I introduce today's guest, I have to thank Pink Apple Dresses for dressing us in these gorgeous, hot pink dresses today. I love Pink Apple dresses. Today's guest is Ms. Grand Virginia Mariah Samuel. Mariah Samuel is a Boston native and a dedicated notary who brings precision and professionalism to her work. Beyond her career, Mariah is deeply passionate about fitness and visual art, using both as creative and personal outlets. Over the past three years, she has committed herself to personal growth and transformation through pageantry, building confidence, discipline, and mental resilience along the way. Her journey reflects determination, self belief, and a willingness to push beyond limits in pursuit of her goals. Welcome, Mariah.

[B]

Hey, Lisa. I'm so glad to be here. Finally.

[A]

I know. Finally. So I have been watching you from a distance, obviously, at Ms. Grand, because I am a Virginia girl, so I was like, that's our Miss Virginia. But I think it's our first time, like, meeting in person.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, I remember seeing you at the pageant this year, and I actually have one of your palettes. Oh, my God. Yes. I have the influencer palette.

[A]

That's such a good one. The black is so pigmented, Right?

[B]

The black is. I don't think I have a black that's that black.

[A]

It's so good.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Like, I always go to that one if I need, like, an eyeliner, because you just tap it on and, like, the job is done.

[B]

Yes. I love it.

[A]

Yes. Okay. So Ms. Grand of Virginia. My home stay.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Are you born and raised in Virginia?

[B]

I'm actually from Boston, so I am not born and raised in Virginia, but I'm really happy that I was able to represent the state because I do love Virginia. I love it. I mean, I know, you know, I moved to other states that I didn't really like, I'll be honest. But Virginia was excellent. Like, the people, the food, the way that you can feel the history in the city. I loved living in Virginia.

[A]

There's so much history. And like, we were talking about a little bit before for the show, there are a lot of amazing people that come out of Virginia. Like, it does produce a lot of talent. And like you said, people are sleeping on Virginia.

[B]

Yeah. They don't realize How. How many talented people are there? But I think that the Miss Grand Virginia pageant is gonna, like, put a spotlight on Virginia this year.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Are you so excited?

[B]

I'm so excited. We're just days away from crowning a new Miss Grand Virginia.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Okay, so I wanna talk all about your year. I don't know where to start, but I think we'll start with why Ms. Grand Grand.

[B]

To me, on a deep level, what I love about grand is that you have 100% permission to express yourself. You can be funny, you can be elegant, you can be sexy. The stage performance just allows for so much freedom. And then on top of that, it's one of the few pageant systems that has actually really modernized as far as how they approach the brand. Right. So much social media, marketing, so much stuff that appeals to young people like

[A]

me a hundred percent. Like, you really hit the nail on the head. I feel the same way about Miss Grand. Ms. Grand USA, like, changed my life. But going to Thailand and seeing Miss Grand International, like, that changed my brain chemistry. I was like, oh, my gosh. Like, pageantry is so back because of Grand.

[B]

It's on another level. It's on an. I mean, they. They had their queen flying in the air. They had fireworks, dancers, right? It's. It's next level. And that's why when Nawat says this is the greatest pageant in the world, he feels like he's earned that because there's so much hard work and dedication that goes into putting together a show like that. I mean, I'm in awe.

[A]

Me too. And I just can't wait to see, like, what's next for grand and seeing the organization grow in the United States with all these directors. Like, Virginia has one now and she's doing such a great job. So that's really exciting. I want to hear a little bit about your national experience because I was watching you from a distance. You did amazing. You placed top 10.

[B]

Top 20.

[A]

Top 20.

[B]

So close.

[A]

I was cheering for you, girl. So tell me, like, start to finish, like, everything, how was the prep? Tell me everything.

[B]

Well, the national experience was incredible because we had a full week of activities. A lot of pageants are just the weekend, but we had a full week of activities, dinners. We went to a nightclub.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

Which a lot of pageants would not do that. Right? But you know, it was. It was still elegant. Right? So we went to a. We went to a nightclub, we had non stop photo shoots. It was so much hustle and bustle, so much Work. But at the end, I'm like, I miss it. Take me back. You know, So I had an excellent experience at Nationals, and going into it, I was really. I mean, I was scared. It was my first. It was my first pageant ever.

[A]

You're joking.

[B]

No, no.

[A]

It was my first pageant ever Grand. And you placed top 20. Wait, what? That's amazing.

[B]

Yeah, it was my first pageant ever. So I was just, like, really afraid going into it, but because they gave us such a great experience, I'm like, I. I couldn't have asked for more. Yeah. You know, so that just, you know, it's. They say the. The journey is the destination. And I feel like that's really true for grand, because whether you win or maybe you don't place as high as you. As you want to, they make sure that it's a great experience for every girl, 100%.

[A]

And I think that this is where grand truly embodies women empowerment, because every aspect of the competition is. Is empowering women. And I feel like in this day and age, like, the emphasis on social media is not them being evil and making it a popularity contest, but it's really giving you the tools to succeed in today's day and age. Like, you're literally becoming an influencer just by doing this pageant. And they're giving you how to promote and how to post and how to tag your sponsors, and that's going to be so useful in the future.

[B]

Yeah, I mean, I actually. I'm telling on myself here, because when I first got involved with the Grand, I thought to myself, oh, my God, they're giving us so much work. Like, they want. They want us to do this, they want us to do that. And then at some point in my brain, I realized, no, this is an opportunity for me. Regardless of, you know, what happens with. With Grand, I'm building these relationships with sponsors, with other girls, with people who are business people, people who are photographers, models, amazing people. So I'm so grateful for that.

[A]

I love that. One thing that was really unique to me about Ms. Grand USA was the grand business pitch. And I got to judge that, and that was, like, the highlight of my week. What was your pitch?

[B]

I didn't pitch.

[A]

Oh.

[B]

Because I was like, why did.

[A]

I remember.

[B]

Yeah, yeah. I had prepared something for you. See, guys, this is why I didn't get my. It didn't get in the top 10 because I had prepared something to pitch. Um. Am I going to pitch it right now? I think so.

[A]

I think you are, actually. Well, I'm right here.

[B]

Well, you know what? What. What I wanted to do for my pitch, which actually didn't work out, was grand. It's such a. It's such a sexy pageant compared to some of the other. Other pageant systems. Right. So it doesn't really make sense for us to have a teen division necessarily. I don't know how. How well that translates. But I did want to see what we could do to bring in young people as well, to get eyes on us. So I was thinking maybe a pageant like sleepover camp.

[A]

Oh, my God. Yeah.

[B]

It's, like, enjoying the fun parts of the pageant, the girls being together. And also, these are transferable life skills for young girls. How to put yourself together, how to conduct yourself in an interview, how to feel confident talking to new people. How to always have your own elevator pitch about yourself, about your life and your goals, and just to have that organization and that confidence. I felt like these are the skills that a pageant girl could teach to a young girl that's going to be transferable throughout their whole life, whether they choose to get into pageants or not.

[A]

Exactly. And you really have a point there, because I think those life skills that everybody gets through competing in a pageant is more valuable than the crown.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

The crown is just a crown, but who you become in that process is, like, how you really win the pageant. So as long as you do, like, follow directions, you win.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

So what are some key takeaways that you got from competing at Nationals?

[B]

One thing that I feel like I really developed in this area was not to panic, because things go wrong. Things go wrong. Actually, on my actual performance day, finals night, I left an entire bag at the hotel. And, Lisa, it was my makeup.

[A]

No, your face.

[B]

Yes. Yes. The most.

[A]

Did you have anything on?

[B]

No, I had nothing on because I was like, yeah, I'm just gonna, like, take care of my skin through the day. And so I didn't have any of my makeup. But you know what? Every single girl backstage was helping me assemble.

[A]

Oh, like, you never got your bag?

[B]

No, I never got my bag.

[A]

Oh, my God. You should have called lady code.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Lady code 911.

[B]

Actually, I ran down to Lady Co, and they gave me a strip lash because I really needed a lash. That was the one thing I couldn't find.

[A]

Well, I'm so happy we were there for you.

[B]

Yes, yes. And they. And they did it with no complaints also. Right.

[A]

So.

[B]

But it was amazing to be in that environment, because a lot of people think that pageant girls would be catty or not wanting to see each other win. But actually everybody contributed to me being able to go on stage and be presentable. And they didn't even have to do that. Everybody's running backstage, they're worried about what they've got going on. But they were able to take that time for me to make sure that I was good and I was comfortable too. So that was just an amazing moment that taught me like the lesson of sometimes you got to figure stuff out. And it also was just an amazing memory of girlhood.

[A]

Yeah. No, truly, it really is a sisterhood. And like, I've probably worked thousands of pageants at this point and I've never seen one where there's cattiness. Like, everyone's like so scared of cattiness. And I'm like, I really can't relate. I've never seen cattiness happen in my entire life. And I'm like, I don't know what world these girls are living in where there's cattiness, but it's not pageant land where I live.

[B]

No, no, because. And, and that's also something that's really great about grand is that they're really honest about the fact that, yes, your scores matter. How you do on stage matters. But we're also looking for a girl that's going to be kind and that's going to be profess on that one night. Or not just on stage, but they're looking for somebody who has that warm personality that's going to bring people in. So I don't think a caddy girl could ever win.

[A]

No, no. She shouldn't even bother.

[B]

No, no, I don't think so.

[A]

I love that so much. So you went to the Philippines?

[B]

I did.

[A]

To practice with cj. That is amazing. Tell me all about that trip.

[B]

Well, I was looking, you know, steady looking for a trainer to, to, to work more with my stage presence. And I saw that CJ was also doing some training and I always wanted to go to South Southeast Asia, so I made it a trip. I also went to Thailand. So I went to Thailand first, which is incredible. Oh my gosh. Thailand. Immediately I was like, I want to live here.

[A]

Me too.

[B]

Every person.

[A]

Everything is so fun. Everything is so cheap, right?

[B]

I'm like, this is the life. Yeah, yeah.

[A]

So nice.

[B]

I love this beautiful climate. The mixture. I was in Bangkok, by the way. So the mixture of like the temples and the ancient world, you know, those things that make you feel so stoic and they just pull you in. I'm like, wow. This is an actual, you know, palaces and castles, but Also, like, super convenient, super high tech living. Like, you're feeling like you're like, in the future too. So I had the combination of both. I'm like, how can I leave this? But. And great weather. I'm like, how can I leave this place? So I stayed there for like a week. And the only problem is that that wasn't enough time. That wasn't enough.

[A]

I'm right there with you. I think I was in Thailand for two weeks and I was like, that was not enough time. Like, I'm down to move there, honestly, because I missed that.

[B]

It's incredible. So I was able to easily get to the Philippines after that. And in the Philippines, I was solo. So it was, it was good for me. Right before the pageant, I'm like, I'm in this very, like, efficient apartment. I've got nothing but, like, my diet food. I've got my step, step counter, and I've got my ability to go to, to work with my coach. So I, I worked with cj. She was able to really dial in with me, like, on the technique of walking, right, Because I. I love it as an art form, but there's a lot of technique to it. So she was like, letting me know, you have to have your knees straight and you have to make sure you're walking in a perfectly straight line. And just this whole world of, like, technical walking that I had never been introduced to before her. And after, I felt myself improve so much. I still hear her voice in my head. I'm still like, improving day by day with the things that she taught me. So it was an incredible experience. You can't beat that.

[A]

No. 100%. And she was a good teacher because your stage presence was amazing.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

I saw you up there and I was like, wow, you have presence. And I don't know if that was, like, taught or you just automatic, like, that's who you are.

[B]

I mean, I have to admit, like, the swimsuit, that's like my favorite.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Okay, so top 20, right? I love those silver swimsuits.

[B]

Oh, my God.

[A]

What was it like walking on that stage in top 20?

[B]

It was, it was interesting because. So this is another thing that I learned. A lot of people think that people. A lot of people, I mean, me, I thought that people who did scary things just weren't scared. You know, they weren't as scared as, as I was or as somebody else was. But you know what it is? People are really scared and they ignore that feeling and they do the thing anyway and they do it to the best of their ability. So I was completely scared, but I'm like, oh, my God, does it benefit me to be scared right now? You know, I can either hold back or give it all I got and do my very best. And I did my very best for that night. So it was an incredibly empowering experience to conquer my fear in that way.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

You know, so it made me, like, comfortable with being uncomfortable.

[A]

Wow. So. So when they called you into the top 20, were you expecting it or were you like, oh, my gosh, I

[B]

was not expecting it. Really?

[A]

Because you're like, I don't have my makeup right.

[B]

I was like, I know I'm not at my best. And it was such a. It was. It was a stiff competition.

[A]

It was. Yeah.

[B]

Grand is actually. It's under new management recently. And the way that. I mean, it's always been a great competition, but the way that it was able to level up on my year specifically, like, we had some of the most beautiful, most prepared women I could. I could not even. I mean, we had a top. I mean, there was very. There was very few people that couldn't have placed, you know, so it kind of felt like everybody was bringing something. So I was not sure if I was going to be in the top 20 or not.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. And then they called you, and you had to change into your swimsuit so quick and get your walk together, and they gave you these capes. Like, what was it like walking and. Like, there was a waterfall. It was crazy, right?

[B]

There was a. I mean, it was so exciting. I. The adrenaline of, like, rushing backstage and, you know, being a part of this group. I saw C.J. backstage, and she, like, gave me a high five, and I could see that she was genuinely happy for me, too. So it was. It was like the best part of chaos.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

It was the best part of chaos.

[A]

Yeah. I thrive in chaos. I love chaos. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah, me too. I think. I think I do, too.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Okay, so when did you find out that you have a director now? How did that happen?

[B]

Oh, my gosh. I only found out a few months ago. So when I became Miss Grand Virginia, there was no director, so I had to do everything on my own. But then we. We got a director. And what was so great about this director, too, was she understood that I didn't have a lot of. I didn't have as many opportunities, not having a national, not having a state director. So she said, I'm going to give you as many opportunities as I can within this short time that you're still Miss Grand Virginia, because, like, she adopted me, basically. So. So, yeah. So that. That was incredible. So, you know, we were in communication, and, you know, she was helping me do different things. She's also involved in Virginia Fashion Week, so she's just connected me to so many different opportunities. And now I understand that Ms. Grand Virginia or not, I always have that relationship with her. So I'm, like, really happy to have inherited that.

[A]

Oh, 100%. And you're always going to be part of the Miss Grand Virginia family. Now. I feel like you're, like, the inaugural queen under Yelena's directorship, so that's so exciting. I've been working with her really closely as a sponsor, and she's just been incredible to work with. So I really can't wait to go to Virginia next week and, you know, be there at her production. I think she has dc, Maryland, and Virginia, so.

[B]

That's right.

[A]

States one. I'm excited.

[B]

I know the girls look so good, and the girls are also personally motivated. Like, I see them all posting about it, connecting with sponsors, taking the initiative. I see that they all want it, you know. Yeah. So I'm just so happy for that, that they really respect the opportunity and that they're going for it with everything they've got, you know, so I'm gonna be happy no matter who wins, because I. I see, you know, so much spirit.

[A]

I'm like, oh, my gosh. Like, it's a competitive group of girls. Because I was, like, being nosy and, like, wait a minute. Yeah, it's a good group of girls. Like, I don't know how good they're going to pick. Are you excited to crown your successor?

[B]

I am. I'm really excited. So that's only days. Days from now. So this is, like, a hectic time for me, you know, just flying around, but I'm very excited. And also, I'm going to be doing everything I can as a part of the entire production. So they're going to have some rehearsals. They're going to have different moments. I'm going to be giving out pointers and advice and hugs because I know it's going to be crazy. So I'm just so, so happy to be able to give that support because I know what it's like to not have it, too. Yeah.

[A]

I feel like for Ms. Grand Virginia, it is a lot of their first times competing in a pageant. I know there's a couple veterans, but for the girls going into the pageant this weekend, what Is your advice to them.

[B]

My advice to them is to understand that there's a lot of different factors to winning. And just because you don't win, that doesn't mean you didn't do a good job. It doesn't mean you didn't give your best. You just. You have to be proud of what you've done. You have to be proud of the effort that you put in, regardless of whether you get the result that you want or not. Understanding that with each year, you're going to get better and better, sharpening your tools and becoming more competent. So I just. I don't want any of the people to accept defeat. It's just the start of your journey.

[A]

I 100% agree with that. And I feel like with Yelena only having such a short time to work with these girls, you know, she probably needs someone that's ready. But next year, imagine if you sign up early. Imagine if you have a whole year to prepare. That's gonna give you success, probably at nationals.

[B]

Right. And before I competed, I was so afraid of failing. Like, I really wanted to win. I. Like, I want to win my first pageant. I want to win my state pageant, and I want to win the nationals, and I want to go straight to international, as does everybody. But I didn't get that. There's nobody in this industry who that is true for. When you see a Miss Universe, when you see a Miss grand, when you see a Miss World. These women have competed in 10, 15 pageants before they get to that level. So I just think you have to be in it for the experience, too. Right. Understanding that it might take a while before you get that ultimate result. But what's the rush, you know? Just enjoy. Enjoy each year getting better and better and showcasing yourself.

[A]

Are we going to see you on another stage soon? Maybe you can't stop. Already did one.

[B]

That's right. That's right. Yes, yes, yes. I'm not sure exactly how or when, but, I mean, I've been steadily preparing. I kind of feel like I've been preparing since the day I stepped off stage at Miss Grand.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

Like, I think I gave it, like, a week to cool down, and then I was like, so, what's my plan for this upcoming year? So I've been just planning my. My whole life around, eventually chasing the dream again. But of course, there's so many logistics to it, so I can't say exactly how or when.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Well, that's so exciting. So I'm reading here on your talking points that you had a three year journey, right? Pageant stage, three years. Okay, so tell me about it.

[B]

So, so basically, although grand was my first pageant, I had thought about joining many different pageants before. So I was, it was always something that I was thinking about. I bought dresses, I was like, you know, doing photo shoots and like, okay, now is going to be my moment where I join. Now is going to be my moment when I joined and I just never did because I was so scared. And I felt like everything had to be perfect. But now I know everything being perfect, whatever that means, doesn't mean that you'll necessarily win. And everything not being perfect doesn't mean that you won't succeed. Right? So I was trying to control something that I don't have ultimate control over, you know, So I learned so much just in that journey from the desire to stepping on that stage. So that's why when I stepped on that stage, I just felt so proud of myself for even being there.

[A]

Oh, yeah. Did you feel ready?

[B]

I felt ready. Yeah, I felt ready. That's interesting. Two seconds before I stepped on stage, I didn't feel ready. The moment that I stepped on, I'm like, oh, I guess I'm ready.

[A]

Is it true that, like when you're on stage, it's like muscle memory? So if you practice a lot, your body just kind of does what you practice, you don't have to freak out as much?

[B]

Yeah, it's definitely, it's definitely muscle memory. Doing it again and again and again. Doing it slowly, doing it fast, doing it, coming from the left side, coming from the right side. There's. There's so much that goes into it. But once, once it's like locked into your body, it becomes. It becomes normal, becomes like breathing.

[A]

Oh, I love that. So practice makes perfect. Yes, yes, I love that. And you also said that discipline is a very important part of getting ready for a pageant. Tell me about your personal experience with discipline.

[B]

I mean, discipline is not my strong suit. I'm not gonna lie. I'm kind of. I'm kind of a free spirit. So it's hard for me to do the things that are more disciplined. For example, with the stage performance, I like to go into a dance studio and do whatever I want. But following the routine is really important in order to get from that studio to the actual stage. So it was a lot of lists, it was a lot of planning, and I had to fall into those routines. And those routines included everything before the pageant. I had to sleep a certain way, I had to eat a certain way. I had to, you know, be exercising. I had to be also making time to actually practice my walk. I had to practice my public speaking skills, and all of that had to be integrated into my life. And then they gave us a dance. They gave us a dance. I cannot dance.

[A]

That dance was iconic, though. Were you in the back just kind of?

[B]

Yeah, I got. I got moved to the back pretty quick.

[A]

Me too. I'm one of the girls in the back. I'm just like, I can do the arms kind of if I watch the girl in front of me.

[B]

And I had to deal with the person in my line. I mean, I had to deal with being the person in my line that kept messing everything up.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Like, Raya, go this way. This. Go this way, go this way. And I kept messing it up. So I am not a strong dancer. But even that, I had to, like, be really on top of myself about it and be practicing as much as I could to get the best result that I could within that time.

[A]

Yeah. Wow. You looked right up there, and I didn't notice anything.

[B]

Yeah, yeah.

[A]

I think with all the hype and, like, so much movement and lights, like, nobody's like, oh, that girl's messing up.

[B]

Yeah, we were. We were as a group, so it didn't look as bad. And we had some wonderful dancers in the front.

[A]

There were some professionals in the front.

[B]

Yeah, yeah.

[A]

New York Rochelle. She's like a ballerina.

[B]

Yeah, There's. There's. There were. There were a few different girls that had backgrounds in, like, dance athletics or even girls that just had done so many pageants that they'd learned so many dances.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Over the years. So, yeah, I was definitely a novice.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Who were some of your besties coming out of the pageant?

[B]

Okay, so it's interesting. So I actually started a group chat before the pageant, so we were able to talk to each other and plan to do content together. So that when I arrived at the pageant, it's like, we already kind of had our little group. Yeah. So. And then the group was just constant throughout the pageant. As soon as I come downstairs, I'm, like, looking for my girls. Oh, yes. But Kentucky, Michigan, Tennessee. So many girls. It was interesting. Arizona. It was interesting that I was able to have that. That many friends at once. I'm, like, managing eight different girls that I'm talking to every. Every day. I'm like, why can't I have this in real life? This is like a sorority.

[A]

Why can't we stay here?

[B]

Stay here? Forever. That. I mean, that's my dream, is that we stay in a hotel forever.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And our job is to film content, literally.

[A]

And look hot and look hot every day. That's my dream, too.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Doing my best to live that life.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Yes. We'll keep doing pageants, and it won't stop. Are you still in touch with them?

[B]

I am. Yeah. So we still have our group chat. We still share with each other about different opportunities. And I have those friends for life, you know, so they know if they're in Virginia, they can. They can call me. I know if I'm. If I'm near them, I can call them, so. And I also think that's. That's a part of the pageant that people don't understand, too, is the networking. So many different people who can help you in different different ways, and you guys help each other, and it becomes, like, a beautiful bond.

[A]

Oh, yeah. 100. I feel like pageant is networking, and if you build the right connections through your sponsors, through the other girls, you know, like, everybody there is ambitious and everybody there is doing something, and everyone's networking. So it's like, if you collaborate, you're unstoppable. 100. I think we are a little bit over time, so we're gonna go into this or that, but is there anything else you want to share with our audience?

[B]

Well, I just want to share this with you, Lisa. You are so such an inspiration, honestly. Because I hope this is not creepy, but I was on your Instagram and I was scrolling, and I was just thinking, like, this woman has put in so much work.

[A]

You're gonna make me cry.

[B]

Yeah, because. Because sometimes I. I, you know, we might look at somebody who's successful, and we think, oh, they just have it like that, you know, or maybe their parents did it for them, or maybe

[A]

they just found out in Hooker Alligator. Yeah.

[B]

But I'm like, this woman has been putting in work.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

So many different iterations of your brands and your businesses that you continue to level up to get to where you are. So I just look. Look at you, and I admire you so much for that.

[A]

Thank you so much. I'm emotional. I really love empowering women. And it's like, you know, sometimes I help people, and I don't get a thank you. And it's like I'm a stepping stone to them, but I don't care. Like, I'm never gonna stop because I change so many lives, like, every single day. And anything I can do to make women feel more empowered and give them independence Especially financially, I think is so important. So if I could mentor girls to start their own businesses or if there's anything I can do to just boost these women up, like, I'm gonna do it, because I just live in girlhood, and I love it so much. So.

[B]

Yes. Yes, you're welcome.

[A]

All right, so we're gonna do a fun ending to our segment. Boston Roots or Virginia Crown?

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Oh, my gosh, they're hard.

[B]

Virginia Crown. Virginia Crown. Because Virginia and Boston, they're actually similar. Virginia has so much to offer, maybe even a little bit more than my hometown.

[A]

I love that Virginia has so much to offer. We're so lucky to have experienced that discipline or motivation?

[B]

Discipline.

[A]

I agree.

[B]

For sure.

[A]

It's so worth it. Mental strength or physical strength?

[B]

They're the same. They're the same. The more that I exercise, I understand that my physical strength, doing hard things, lifting, you know, working with my coach, it's doing something to me on a mental level. You know, I was starting to look at men and think, yeah, I could take you. Yeah.

[A]

Routine or reinvention?

[B]

Reinvention. Routine. Routine is great, but you've got to be able to change your routine.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

How about that? Yeah. Yeah.

[A]

Solo growth or sisterhood support?

[B]

Oh, I'm a solo growth person dying to have sisterhood support. Yeah, yeah. So I'm gonna go with sisterhood support. I've been solo long enough.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. We're here for you.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You have your grand family. Thank you. And you have Yelena and her family now.

[B]

Yes, yes.

[A]

Logic or intuition?

[B]

Logic. Yeah. For me, my intuition is cool, but my intuition has blind spots because I'm not a perfect person, and I have things that I deal with and struggle with too. So I have to invade. Is it. Is it intuition or is it intrusive thoughts? Right. So I have to. I have to be careful of that. So I try to go with my logic.

[A]

Okay. I never thought about it that way. Clean girl aesthetic or full glam?

[B]

Full glam.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Full glam for sure.

[A]

Do you like photoshoot or Runway?

[B]

Runway, for sure. The performance of it. The people.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, the energy. The energy, yeah.

[A]

It's definitely the not safe one, because I feel like photo shoots are very safe and you're in a controlled environment, but Runway is like, that's it. Okay. Last one is a little hard. Who you were or who you're becoming.

[B]

Who I'm becoming. And who I'm becoming is like, back to my childhood self.

[A]

Oh, it's because of who you were.

[B]

Yes, yes. I'm trying to go full 12 years old. I want to wear whatever I want. I want to be, like, playing in my mom's makeup. I want to be, like, crazy free spirit, nothing on me, you know? Yeah.

[A]

Oh, that's amazing. Well, thank you so much for being on this podcast. I want you to share with our audience where we can keep up with your journey. And I want to see everything you're doing in Richmond at the pageant this weekend.

[B]

Guys, I'm Ariah Underscore Samuel on Instagram. Please keep up with me. Shoot me a dm. I'm so interested in hearing you guys journeys. Any questions that you guys have about pageantry, about grand. Let's make it a sisterhood. Thank you guys so much.

[A]

I love that. Thank you so much for coming on.