Tiana Heath is the Powerhouse Behind TTU NETWORK & the Rise of Authentic Storytelling

Tiana Heath is a force in the media world, a storyteller with an unshakable drive to amplify voices and bring important issues to light. Her journey began in Long Island, New York, where she grew up surrounded by diverse stories and cultures. This exposure fueled her passion for media, leading her to pursue Radio and Television studies at Brooklyn College, earning an associate’s degree in 2015 and a bachelor’s degree in 2017. But her career didn’t start in a classroom—it began on YouTube in 2012, where she launched Tee Talk, a series that gave people a platform to share their stories. Over time, her dedication led to the creation of the TTU NETWORK, a channel that has become a home for powerful conversations and innovative storytelling.

From a young age, Heath understood the impact media could have on shaping perceptions and building community. It wasn’t just about entertainment—it was about connecting with people, amplifying voices, and sharing narratives that might otherwise go unheard. This desire to create meaningful content led her to one of her most compelling projects: Missing on Long Island. Her love for true crime and concern for the alarming number of disappearances in her home state ignited the idea for the series. The goal was clear—to bring awareness, spark action, and give a voice to those who had been silenced.

Tackling such heavy subject matter came with its own set of challenges. The emotional weight of the stories was difficult to carry, but Heath remained committed to treating each case with care and respect. Gaining the trust of the affected families was crucial, and she knew that every detail had to be handled with sensitivity and integrity. On the production side, securing the necessary resources to bring the project to life was a hurdle, but her resilience and passion kept her moving forward.

Her creative process is a blend of curiosity, research, and deep engagement with her audience. Whether she’s crafting episodes for Tee Talk or diving into investigative storytelling, it all begins with a spark—an idea that resonates. Heath describes "YouTube University" as one of her biggest assets, a reminder that the internet is a vast space for knowledge. After researching and structuring her content, she collaborates with her team to bring in fresh perspectives before finalizing and publishing her work.

Keeping content fresh requires an intuitive understanding of her audience and a willingness to adapt. Heath actively listens to feedback, keeps up with trends, and collaborates with a variety of guests to ensure her work stays dynamic and engaging. Consistency and authenticity have been key to growing her platform. While analytics help guide her, she prioritizes producing content that stays true to her voice and mission.

Looking ahead, Heath is focused on expanding her influence by branching into long-form documentaries and mentorship programs to cultivate new talent in media. She recognizes the unique challenges that come with being a Black creative, from navigating spaces where representation is lacking to working harder to prove her worth. But rather than allowing these obstacles to deter her, she has created her own opportunities, staying true to her identity and committed to elevating Black voices in media. Her identity shapes the stories she tells, bringing depth, authenticity, and a commitment to social justice. She understands the power of media as a tool for change, and through her work, she highlights the triumphs and struggles of her community.

Personal development has also played a major role in her journey—whether through continued education, networking, or mindfulness practices, she remains dedicated to self-growth and staying grounded in her purpose. Her advice to aspiring Black creatives? "Stay authentic and never lose sight of your unique voice." She encourages others to build strong networks, create their own platforms if necessary, and remain resilient despite challenges. In an industry that can be difficult to break into, persistence and self-belief are crucial.

Balancing personal and professional life is a challenge, but Heath has mastered the art of setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and making time for self-care. She understands that burnout is real, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to longevity in any career. Social media plays an essential role in her strategy, allowing her to engage with her audience, promote her work, and create a sense of community. However, she acknowledges the responsibility that comes with having a public platform and strives to use her voice for positivity and awareness. Her approach to digital engagement is thoughtful and intentional, ensuring that her presence adds value to those who follow her journey.

One of the most impactful moments in her career was the premiere of Missing on Long Island. Seeing the positive response and knowing that the series was making a difference reaffirmed her commitment to using media for social good. Staying motivated comes naturally when she sees the impact of her work—whether through audience feedback, engagement, or real-world change.

Through her projects, Heath hopes to amplify underrepresented voices, educate, and inspire action. Her success isn’t defined solely by numbers but by the conversations and change her content sparks. Measuring impact through audience engagement, meaningful discussions, and real-world outcomes keeps her driven.

One of the most valuable lessons she has learned is the importance of persistence and resilience. The media industry is tough, and setbacks are inevitable, but staying committed to the vision is what leads to success. Authenticity is equally vital—audiences connect more deeply with creators who are genuine and passionate about their work. She also emphasizes the power of collaboration, as building strong relationships in the industry can open doors to new opportunities.

Maintaining authenticity in an evolving industry means staying grounded in her mission while allowing room for innovation. Trends will come and go, but staying true to her voice and values ensures that her work remains impactful.

Exciting things are on the horizon for Heath. Beyond The Bottle, a new docu-series on the TTU NETWORK, premiered in October of 2024 as a personal project as she has been alcohol-free for over a year. The series will explore the journeys of individuals who have chosen sobriety, highlighting their challenges and triumphs in a society where alcohol is deeply ingrained in social culture.

As media continues to evolve, Heath plans to embrace new technologies and storytelling formats, keeping her work relevant in an ever-changing landscape. By integrating virtual reality, interactive content, and community-driven discussions, she aims to push the boundaries of traditional media. Ensuring that her content remains accessible and relatable is also a priority, and she is committed to creating spaces where diverse voices are celebrated. When asked about her legacy, Heath is clear—she wants to be remembered for empowering, representing, and uplifting voices that have been overlooked. Through mentorship, storytelling, and advocacy, she hopes to inspire the next generation of media creatives to use their platforms for positive change.

For Tiana Heath, success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about leaving a lasting impact on the industry and the world.