Creating a Life that Works for You with Latia Curtis | episode 06 + 07
We all want to create a life that feels meaningful — one where we’re not just surviving but thriving. But building that kind of life, especially as a creative or someone breaking the mold, isn’t easy. The path isn’t always clear, and sometimes it feels like you’re the only one trying to carve out a different way.
That’s why Latia Curtis’s story is so inspiring.
Latia Curtis isn’t just a Greenville, SC makeup artist — she’s a creative powerhouse, a small business owner, a mother, a wife, and a passionate advocate for change.
In this conversation, she opens up about her journey from single motherhood to becoming a sought-after makeup artist and hairstylist, working on high-profile sets and navigating the complexities of building a career in an industry that often overlooks diverse talent.
Alongside her creative work, Latia is deeply committed to political advocacy, fighting for reproductive rights, racial justice, and increased diversity behind the scenes. Her story is a powerful example of how creativity and activism can coexist — and how speaking up for basic human rights can create lasting change.
Building a Career Outside the Mold
Latia’s path to becoming a makeup artist wasn’t straightforward. Initially studying vocal performance, she realized early on that she loved singing — but not the pressure of performing. She wanted to tell stories, but in a different way.
“I loved being more stage-adjacent. I didn’t love the spotlight itself, but I loved helping create the story.”
Her love for storytelling and aesthetics eventually led her to makeup artistry. But growing up in South Carolina, where the infrastructure for fashion and commercial production is limited, made it challenging to break into the industry.
“What I do just isn’t part of the cultural landscape here. We don’t have a huge infrastructure for commercial production or fashion. But I knew that to grow as an artist, I needed to work in those spaces.”
Latia’s strategic approach allowed her to navigate this. She made intentional decisions about which projects to take on, sometimes choosing creative fulfillment over financial gain.
“It’s an investment in my enrichment as an artist. The value I get from working in different markets — even if the pay isn’t huge — is invaluable.”
The Power of Partnership
Latia credits much of her ability to juggle a thriving career and family life to the support of her husband, Jason.
“People ask me all the time, ‘How do you do it with kids?’ And I tell them — I have a partner. My job is to get ready for my job. My husband takes care of things at home so that I can show up fully when I’m working. And when I’m home, I’m home.”
Jason’s support extends beyond childcare. His character and integrity have been foundational to their relationship.
“I think you just have to be uncompromising on the character of the person that you’re with.”
Latia shared a story about how Jason once stopped the car at a Big Lots to help an elderly couple struggling with heavy bags of mulch. He didn’t ask — he just acted.
“That’s somebody of strong moral character. I know that if something happened to me or somebody I loved, if he’s there and he can help, he will.”
Early in their relationship, Latia also tested Jason’s values in deeper ways. She asked his opinion on gay marriage before it was federally legalized.
“He said, ‘Well, I don’t see why they can’t be okay with a civil union.’
I said, ‘Now hold up. Somebody could have said that about us. What if someone told us we couldn’t get married, that we should just be okay with a civil union?’”
Jason paused. Instead of getting defensive, he said, “I hadn’t really thought about it like that before.”
“That’s the thing — it’s not about being right. It’s about being willing to grow and challenge your biases.”
Today, Jason actively supports the LGBTQIA+ community. He’s the one who replaces their pride flag when it’s looking worn, making sure to buy from a queer-owned or Black-owned business.
“There’s nothing sexier than a man who is right and good.”
Knowing Your Worth and Raising the Bar
Before meeting Jason, Latia had learned how she’d lowered her standards in relationships. After breaking up with a toxic ex, she realized how much she had been settling.
“He told me, ‘I don’t understand why you’re breaking up with me. I’m a good man. I don’t beat you and I never cheated on you.’”
That moment was a wake-up call.
“I was like, that’s the bar?! He doesn’t hit me, he has a job, and he doesn’t have a criminal record — that’s the baseline?”
Three days later, Jason walked into her life. When Latia told him she needed time to process her breakup, he didn’t push back.
“He respected me enough to give me space.”
That’s when Latia knew he was different.
Love and Independence
Latia and Jason have built a marriage based on respect — not just for each other, but for their individual autonomy.
“At first, we thought we had to do everything together because that’s what marriage is supposed to look like.”
Through therapy and open communication, they realized that allowing each other space to grow as individuals strengthened their relationship.
“I need to pour into myself so I can show up fully for him. And he does the same.”
They’ve also learned to distinguish between compliance and commitment.
“If I ask Jason to do something, I want him to do it because he’s committed to our life together — not just to keep the peace.”
Advocacy and Finding Your Voice
Latia is deeply committed to advocacy work — particularly in the areas of reproductive rights, racial justice, and equality.
As a board member of Planned Parenthood Votes South Atlantic, she regularly engages with legislation and policy issues affecting marginalized communities.
“Some of these politicians are actively working against the people who voted for them. I go to the statehouse, I send emails, I show up — because they need to see our faces.”
Latia knows that politics is personal. She’s seen firsthand how policy decisions affect healthcare access, economic opportunity, and social justice.
“You might not care about politics, but politics cares about you.”
She encourages everyone to get involved in ways that align with their strengths — whether that’s attending protests, donating, or simply staying informed.
“Not everyone needs to be at the front of the protest. Some people bring snacks. Some people make signs. Some people send emails. We all have a role to play.”
Latia also wants to make it easier for others to get involved.
“I want people to feel encouraged and comfortable enough to go alone. There’s nothing wrong with showing up by yourself.”
At the heart of it all — her marriage, her advocacy, her success — is self-awareness.
Latia’s story is a powerful reminder that living life differently isn’t about following a prescribed path — it’s about creating one that reflects your values, your truth, and your sense of purpose.
Whether it's in her career, her marriage, or her activism, Latia leads with integrity and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
Her advice for those looking to make a difference is simple but impactful:
start where you are and lean into your strengths
“Not everyone needs to be at the front of the protest. Some people bring snacks. Some people make signs. Some people send emails. We all have a role to play.”
You don’t have to be loud to be effective — showing up matters. Listening matters. Speaking up matters. Whether it's supporting a local candidate, attending a city council meeting, or simply staying informed, small actions compound into meaningful change.
“You might not care about politics, but politics cares about you.”
Latia’s story is proof that when you align your life with your values and surround yourself with people who uplift you, you don’t just create success — you create a life that feels true to you.
💬 Ready to Explore This More?
Listen to this episode of a life differently to hear the full conversation and personal stories on this topic. And if this resonated with you, let’s continue the conversation—share your thoughts with me on Instagram @alifedifferently.
Hey there, I’m Ronni
I help people unlearn, heal, and step into a life that’s actually theirs. Around here, we question the rules, embrace the magic, and just see what happens.
When I’m not talking manifestation, you’ll find me lost in a new oracle deck, junk journaling, crocheting, or crafting miniatures for my dollhouse.