4 Lessons from 'Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story'
By Monique Farmer, APR
February 2025
Recently, I watched Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story, a documentary as riveting as it was insightful. It chronicled Perry’s journey from adversity to powerhouse storyteller, crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
As someone who has spent years shaping stories, I couldn’t help but take notes on how Perry’s approach to storytelling could transform the way we write — whether it’s press releases, blog posts or campaign narratives.
As I watched it, my “aha” moment hit me. I wasn’t just watching the story of a man overcoming odds, I was watching a master class in audience connection, emotional resonance and the strategic use of storytelling formulas.
Let’s unpack how his methods can inspire fresh perspectives in our writing.
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Monique Farmer, APR
Monique Farmer, APR, runs a PR/Communication Consultancy, Avant Solutions, and is the creator of Anvil Ready, an online communication strategy builder that aids the communication professional in creating communication plans. She teaches at the University of Texas at Austin. Farmer spent 12 years working in the federal government prior to working in corporate communications for ConAgra Foods (now ConAgra Brands), then leading communication strategy for Nebraska’s largest school district. In March 2024, she published her first book, Chart Your Path: A 9-step Method to Getting Unstuck.
