Introducing the new editor of Flintside: Tia Scott

I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new editor of Flintside and look forward to continuing our mission to tell the stories of Flint residents and organizations who are adding value to their communities. 

I was born and raised on the north side of Flint and have learned to appreciate the strength and beauty of the place that has molded me into the woman and writer I am today. It is this city’s rich mix of history, tradition, and culture that has kept me drawn to it no matter where I traveled and lived.

The richness of all three compelled me to start my first blog in 2007 in which I wrote about people I deemed influential in Flint — people who I felt the world should know about. This is why I appreciate publications like Flintside as it gives a voice to the everyday people who are making huge impacts in their areas and adding to the city’s economy and morale. 

I have been writing professionally for over 13 years, specializing in bios, mission statements, and web copy for entrepreneurs and businesses. From 2013 to 2018, I established and managed a music blog titled The Dope Show which showcased independent artists from all over the world, including local talent from Flint. Along with the blog, I organized monthly live music events at the Greater Flint Arts Council (GFAC) where local music artists could perform.

In 2017, I moved to Los Angeles due to an opportunity to learn about the music business and ended up living there for two years. From there, I found myself trying to build a life and writing career in Phoenix, Arizona. Although I tried to find a sense of community in both states, nothing would compare to the support I received from my hometown. As I continued to keep tabs on the Flint scene and its latest happenings, I felt a strong urge to return to where my love for writing and community began.

When Patrick Hayes, the previous editor of Flintside, reached out in 2020 to see if I would like to contribute to Flintside, I jumped at the chance to lend my voice to such a unique and supportive platform. During my time as a contributing writer, I experienced an immense amount of personal and professional growth as I was able to witness firsthand the hard work and effort of a city diligently making changes for the better. 

My year as a contributor also prompted the decision to move back to Flint which happened during the summer of this year. Although it was somewhat of a rushed decision, I have no doubt in my mind that this is where I needed to be. It just feels right. 

My vision for Flintside is to continue to document stories of the people and display Flint in a positive light. Even with articles that may address critical issues within or about the city, I am aiming to lead a team that also offers ideas, solutions, and resources to our local residents. 

My personal mission for the publication is to capture the city from the scope of how many of us view it, which is often through the lens of passion, creativity, nostalgia, and hope. Ever since I became a writer, I have always had an agenda to make Flint look cool while telling authentic stories that resonate with its community and appeal to those who would like to learn more about us. 

With that said, I am more than excited to step into my new role as editor and hope that you stick around to experience the continuation of Flintside with me. 

To stay connected, follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, and my website. 

If you have a story idea, please don't hesitate to reach out via email: [email protected].