We were lucky to catch up with Alisha Childress recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alisha, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Being me is my risk story. In a world and community of business and competitors, it’ is natural for people to do anything to get to the top, to close a deal, or to win. Business can be transactional and often lacking sincerity, authenticity, and humanity. Over the years as I’ve grown and become more confident and secure in who I am and in my purpose, I have leaned into who I am – a gem, rough around the edges, embodying energy, and a healer in my community. I have learned that in a business world where everyone wears black or blue suits, neutral colored dresses and blouses, that being me – young, vibrant, energetic, authentic, a phenomenal woman, woman of color, I stand out. Being me, standing out, that’s the risk. My bronze skin, my cheerleading voice, my orange aura, locks in my hair, and the way I walk, is a risk. I understand that when I walk into a room, when I have a seat at the table, when I open my mouth and use my voice – I’m taking a risk. I saw a quote one time at a restaurant in Washington DC, it stated “If I sit silently, I have sinned”. I often carry this with me. I feel that it is my responsibility and duty to always stay true, pure, honest, and always advocate for communities that need it the most. I owe it to the community to be transparent, to show others that it is OK to be who you are, and that you can still make a positive impact, be an influencer no matter what position you are in, and be professional. Being yourself is a risk, I get it. But being put in a box is even more of a risk. One that I refuse to be in. For me, being authentic, inspiring others, and helping others accomplish major goals is well worth the risk and is the ultimate flex.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a vibrant, community-minded individual from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where I grew up immersed in leadership and connection. From cheer captain and SGA president to serving on the City of Roanoke Youth Commission, I’ve always embraced opportunities to lead and build relationships. My parents instilled in me the value of engaging with diverse people and environments, which has shaped who I am today.
In my current role as a Business Development Specialist and nonprofit board member, I thrive at the intersection of community and business development. I specialize in network marketing and building authentic relationships to help businesses and nonprofits achieve their financial and organizational goals. Whether it’s optimizing revenue streams or coaching leaders to leverage their unique strengths to stand out, I love seeing people succeed by being unapologetically themselves.
What I’m most proud of is hearing how my strategies—rooted in authenticity and connection—help others build meaningful relationships that translate into tangible results, like expanding networks or securing major donations. I like to say I have a PhD in getting things done, building relationships, and leveraging authenticity to achieve goals. This has inspired me to create a new business focused on helping organizations build innovative partnerships, increase revenue, and foster cultures of authenticity and moxie!
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Being consistent, honest, real, and responsive. I often hear from those that I serve that they love my energy, I am dependable, available, and that I show up. I attend their events, I send greeting cards and notes, and that my transparency and knowledge builds trust. LinkedIn is my best friend! I am often found sharing smiles and sprinkling confetti all over!
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
Touch point calendar! I’m very organized and strategic. I look at a full 12 month calendar and ink in all types of opportunities, ie holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, monthly celebrations, etc. I make sure there is always an opportunity to check in and say Hi! It’s the game of staying relevant and in that person’s real life timeline. You do not want to be “out of sight, out of mind”!
Contact Info:
- Website: Coming Soon!
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alishachildress
Image Credits
N/a