We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amber Covington a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Amber , appreciate you joining us today. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?

Oh wow! This is a great question. My parents are my inspiration. They instilled in me a strong work ethic. They pushed me to always achieve my fullest potential along with remaining humble on my journey. My father is a retired police officer and army veteran. My mom has been a business owner for the last 20+ years. They provided structure, guidance, and ensured I had access to the best education and resources. They gave me and my brothers the freedom to be creative and tap into our potential, always letting us know the opportunities are endless. Plus, both are competitive, so I can’t help but to have the energy and drive that I will always WIN!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

I have been in the workforce and economic development industry for the past 15 years in Memphis, TN (my hometown). Go Grizzlies!

My skillset includes assisting minority and women owned businesses with scaling their entities, managing high performing teams, strategic planning, project management, training & development, etc. I came into the industry in 2007 as a case manager under TANF and have climbed the ladder ever since. It was never about being the big boss but seeing communities transformed. I task my team daily to operate in a spirit of excellence, nothing less. Operating in excellence is integral to ensure transformative change continues on a pathway forward.

In 2023, I’m starting a clothing brand and online boutique. I’ve always loved fashion, but my interest has peaked over the last year. The primary product line will be lingerie and undergarments for curvy/plus size women. Being a curvy woman and self-love ambassador, I’ve noticed there is not always options that are fun, flirty, and sexy for curvaceous women. Every woman is beautiful. Women of all body sizes and types should be free and comfortable in their skin. There should be a plethora of options for all women.

Also, there will be branded clothing items for women and men and a sensuality product line for couples. This is wildly different from my current career path. I’m not releasing the brand name yet, but it will take the industry by storm.

My ultimate goal is to be a serial entrepreneur. Hopefully, several businesses will kickoff over the next few years. Currently, I have another hobby/side hustle. I’m known in the community as DJ AC “Your Ice Cold DJ”. I DJ mostly community events and small gatherings.

I want to show appreciation to my husband, Asa, who supports every business venture. From helping me drag my DJ equipment around, providing tech help, and being a listening ear. He makes this journey so much easier for me. “My Rock!”

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Gosh! The entrepreneurial journey is not easy. I had a situation earlier this year that could have caused me to go into a depression, but I’m blessed to have the capability to recover quickly. Plus, I had family and friends to lean on during that time.

There was a business I started with partners that didn’t take off as envisioned. It was no fault of our own but I’m not going to go into too many details. I would advise anyone to ensure they always obtain agreements in writing before moving forward with a venture.

Did it hurt? Yes! But you always have to dust yourself off and keep moving. There is always opportunity to be a change agent in the community. I’m grateful for the experience because it was a learning moment, and I was able to redirect my focus to other business ventures. One day down the road, I will circle back. I’m thankful my purpose and vision is clearer now.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

I’m a very spiritual person. In every facet of my life, I consult God on what his plan is for me and the direction to take in life. I tend to read books with scripture reference on this leadership and entrepreneurship journey.

One of my faves that has influenced my management style and entrepreneurial thinking is Leadershifts: Mastering Transitions in Leadership & Life by Bishop Joseph W. Walker III. This book is a combination of Godly principles coupled with practical experience. As a leader, you exude humility, have integrity to grow as leader. We are always shifting on this journey to achieve our divine purpose. This book has been an inspiration to me. I have even bought this book to share with friends and colleagues.