From Persistence to National TV: My Unexpected Journey to The Tamron Hall Show
Never in a million years did I imagine that one day I would be sharing my story on national television.
When the taping ended, I remember asking myself, “Did I really just go on the Tamron Hall Show today?”
The journey to that moment actually began a few years ago. I had signed up for a marketing and PR class, and through a chance encounter I met one of the producers from Tamron Hall Show. I shared my story of becoming a shoe designer with her, and she encouraged me to apply for the show's Up and Coming Designer Series.
I submitted my application and was eventually selected for an interview to showcase my collection. Unfortunately, I was not chosen as one of the finalists.
I can’t fully describe how disappointed I felt at the time.
But instead of letting that moment close the door, I decided to keep the connection alive. Over the years, I would occasionally check in with the producer whenever I had an update on my collection — when new shoes arrived, when I hit a milestone, or sometimes simply to say hello.
I didn’t know it then, but those small moments of staying in touch would eventually lead to something extraordinary.
A few weeks ago, I received an email from the producer completely out of the blue. She told me she might have some good news and asked me to save the date.
It turned out the team was planning a segment featuring a luxury fashion expert who would give advice on how emerging fashion brands can market and differentiate themselves. The producer remembered my journey and thought I would be a great fit for the segment.
And just like that, I was invited to appear on the show.
When the confirmation came through, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. I’ve always admired Tamron Hall and her work, so the thought of being on her show felt surreal. At the same time, the idea of stepping into the spotlight on national television brought up moments of deep self-doubt.
There were times when I wanted to hide behind the curtains and disappear.
But instead, I chose to prepare myself mentally and lean into the opportunity.
For the show, I decided to wear an outfit that represented where I came from — Singapore. Clothing, like shoes has the power to tell a story, and this felt like the perfect moment to honor my roots and the country that shaped me.
Standing there, I realized something important.
This pivotal moment represented years of effort, persistence, and belief in a dream that once felt impossible.
My story matters.
My shoe journey matters.
Instead of letting fear take over, I chose courage — the courage to share my story as someone who entered the fashion world as an outsider. My hope is that it might inspire other women to pursue their dreams as well.
If we have the courage to dream, then we also have the power to turn those dreams into reality.
I may not have all the answers, but I will continue asking questions, opening doors, and trying again and again. This experience reminded me that persistence truly matters.
One of the most emotional moments of the entire experience happened backstage when I finally met the producer in person for the first time. The moment we saw each other, we hugged — and I couldn’t hold back my tears.
She told me something I will never forget - "Your persistence had paid off - you kept emailing me."
Even though the segment itself was only about five to eight minutes long, I treasured every part of the journey: the pre-interview Zoom session, being picked up by the production team, walking into the studio, being treated like a VIP, having my own room, and experiencing professional hair and makeup. Everyone was so professional and kind to my requests, every step of the way.
Most of all, I was surrounded by close friends and loved ones backstage who helped calm my nerves and cheered me on before I walked onto the stage.
And then suddenly, there I was — standing on stage with Tamron Hall.
Me on the show with Roger Joseph and Tamron Hall
The entire experience felt surreal.
But more than anything, it was a powerful reminder that sometimes the most incredible opportunities come from simply not giving up.
This experience reminded me why I started designing shoes in the first place. My brand was born from from a childhood dream of mine - I've always wanted to be a designer, as well as years of walking the streets of New York with painful feet, wishing that women didn’t have to choose between beauty and comfort. Today, every pair I design carries that same purpose—to create shoes that help women feel confident, joyful, and ready to take on the world. Standing on that stage was not just about sharing my story; it was a reminder that when we stay true to our dreams and keep moving forward, incredible things can happen—often when we least expect them.
Watch the show segment here.
(All photo credits to Jeff Neira/Disney)