We first became familiar with you during your time on reality TV. We know times have changed, but can you tell us the process even being casted or how to get into reality TV for our audience who may want to pursue it?
I always knew I wanted to get paid for being me however I didn’t know how I would go about it. I would search the internet for opening castings, as that used to be the way to be discovered in Los Angeles. I came across a casting for MTV’s Real World. I submitted my paperwork but I wouldn’t receive a callback until a year later. Once I was called in for a face to face interview the process went on for yet another year. Once I was cleared to film my offer was switched to Bad Girls Club Season 9 Mexico but of course nothing has ever come easy for me, and I was hit with yet another minor setback. The day before leaving to film I was called and told my paperwork wasn’t correct and wouldn’t be able to join the cast in Mexico. Disappointed was an understatement but being relentless and understanding that timing is everything I just knew that wasn’t the end of the road for me. Although I wouldn’t get a call for about four months I began to film myself at the time I didn’t even know why I was doing it but later that same video would turn into my intro for Bad Girls club Season 10 Atlanta.
As an entrepreneur and influencer what did you learn from your time on reality TV?
Girls Guided journal for this very reason I struggled with staying consistent especially after hitting a roadblock. I know first hand how hard it is to reach a goal but I also know the satisfaction received once that goal is hit and I just always felt it was my duty to learn and then share with whomever was willing to listen. The guided journal helps you understand when these moments are present. I created activities inside that help you be honest on your weaknesses and strengths. The biggest game changer was when I was able to recognize when I fell into my old habits of inconsistency. So now when I hit a roadblock I first recognize I’m being tested, then I see it as an opportunity.
Tell us more about Inspired. What made you choose this name and how does Inspired stand out amongst your competitors?
Inspired is a lifestyle. Everything about Inspired is intentional, from the vibrant colors selected; each to omit a different vibration for the soul, and fly fits for the body! What sets Inspired apart from any other brand is the intention set behind each item sold. Reminding our supporters to vibrate high our clothes are comfortable, fashionable, and convenient. We feature a Bad girls Guided journal with self- help activities, journal space, and a dateless calendar.
What is your overall vision for Inspired? From it’s inception, to where it’s at now, to your version of owning a successful brand what does that look like for you and Inspired?
The overall mission was to build the sporty entrepreneur inside and out. In the beginning we focused on athleisure. The goal was to become the most affordable brand, but the mission was always to support and evoke self love. The Guided journals were created for the inner work helping build discipline, self-reflection, and organization. We are continuing to grow and we have seen our supporters bloom as well.
How do you personally remain inspired throughout your journey?
I draw inspiration from everything around me, I guess I feel but most importantly my daughter but on the days I’m struggling I listen to podcasts like “Therapy For Black Girls” and “Crowned Affirmations,” are some of my favorite ways to get myself refocused and motivated.
And knowing what you know now how do you use your experiences to inspire others?
I’m constantly learning new concepts and ways to inspire. I share quotes online, some of my favorite books I’m reading and podcasts that I found to be helpful. Also, I try my best to be transparent on the building of my business, showing behind the scenes, upcoming items and my preparation process during a live stream on instagram, But the Bad girls guided journals have all the gems needed to help anyone get out their own way.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about building a brand and being an entrepreneur that you wish you had the information before you started this journey?
My building process was needed. My business was built through that process itself, so I guess the one thing I learned and wish I knew was you can’t skip the process.
Last but not least, who are 5 women entrepreneurs you #COSIGN and why? Also, please share their IG handles.
