We were lucky to catch up with Chandra Fussell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Chandra, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

I started Chandra Fussell Enterprises dedicated to helping executive women harness the power of change and growth because I am that Executive Woman.  I want to speak directly to “her” through motivational speaking, experience and one-on-one coaching.  Here are some compelling “whys” behind my endeavor:

1. Personal Empathy and Experience: 

• Authenticity: My personal experience as an executive woman navigating the corporate & government ladder provides authenticity to coaching. My journey and challenges resonate with my target audience, creating a genuine connection and understanding.

2. Address Loneliness and Identity Loss:

• Common Struggles: Many executive women find themselves feeling isolated and losing their sense of identity amidst corporate pressures. My passion addresses this common struggle by providing a supportive community and guidance for personal and professional development.

3. Fulfilling a Gap in the Market: 

• Niche Focus: Executive women face unique challenges, and there’s a significant gap in the market for specialized coaching tailored to their needs. My passion and experience fill this void by offering targeted empowerment coaching, positioning itself as an invaluable resource.

4. Impact on Work-Life Integration:
• Holistic Approach: I focus on helping women create fulfilling lives extending beyond the professional realm. I emphasize work-life integration, my unique coaching style can positively impact not just careers but overall well-being, enhancing both personal and professional aspects of their lives.

5. Motivational Speaking as Catalyst:
• Inspiration and Guidance: Motivational speaking serves as a powerful catalyst for change. My ability to inspire and provide practical insights through speaking engagements can spark motivation and prompt actionable steps, creating a positive ripple effect in the lives of executive women.

6. Creating a Supportive Community:
• Networking and Peer Support: Chandra Fussell Enterprises can become a hub for networking and peer support among executive women. Building a community where individuals can share experiences, insights, and solutions fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity.

7. Long-term Impact on Gender Equality:
• Breaking Barriers: As more executive women find support and empowerment through my coaching; my business contributes to breaking gender barriers in the corporate world. By helping women achieve their goals, I play a role in fostering a more inclusive and diverse leadership landscape.

8. Legacy and Personal Fulfillment:
• Meaningful Contribution: Building a business that makes a positive impact on the lives of executive women can be a source of personal fulfillment. Creating a legacy centered around empowerment and positive change can be deeply rewarding.

In summary, Chandra Fussell Enterprises is not just a coaching business; it’s a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and community-building, addressing the unique challenges faced by executive women and contributing to a more equitable and fulfilling professional landscape.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Yes of course!  I’m an accomplished social entrepreneur with a strong track record spanning more than 26 years in the government sector. With extensive expertise in governmental contracts, correctional programs, executive leadership training, and strategic planning, I’m widely recognized as a subject matter expert in these areas. Additionally,  I’ve garnered a reputation as an esteemed empowerment coach and motivational speaker, inspiring individuals to embrace their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My expertise comes through the lens of professional and personal experience.

My dedication lies in supporting the personal and professional growth of individuals, encouraging them to live purposeful and productive lives. My guiding principle, “Marry the Process and Divorce the Outcome,” underscores my belief in the importance of focusing on the journey rather than solely fixating on the result. By emphasizing the significance of the process, I underscore the assurance of achieving the desired outcomes.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am a devoted Christian, a compassionate motivator, a loving mother, and a proud grandmother. My caring nature extends to a full-time caregiver for my mother until her recent passing, drawing upon my 36 years of experience in this capacity and sharing my wisdom through my book, The Art of Caregiving.

I look forward to cherishing moments spent with my two grandchildren Baby K and Kowen,  as well as quality time with my youngest son, Garrison, and my eldest daughter, Jailon.  Additionally, I find joy in traveling to support my oldest son, Christian, as he competes in Division 1 basketball.  I’m a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter.  Currently, I hold a leadership position of The Aging “FINER” Committee dedicated to servicing the Seniors in our community.

For me these new beautiful memories are the result of past unpleasant pain from my divorce and the passing of my beloved mother.  I’m intentionally creating a balanced life now living more joy than ever before while fueling my passion to help other individuals do the same.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Yes, & I did!

In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, adaptability often becomes the key to success. My journey with JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm for Executive Organizations (my first business) and Chandra Fussell Enterprises, an Empowerment Coaching business for Executive Women, took an unexpected turn that ultimately proved pivotal in reshaping its trajectory. This transformation was not just about branding & rebranding two businesses but about gaining clarity, aligning messaging, and fostering collaborations that would elevate the brand to new heights.

When I initially launched JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm, I was fueled by passion and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of executive organizations. With the help of an incredible friend and business consultant, I set the wheels in motion—crafting my own website, orchestrating a launch, and venturing into the realm of social media advertising. However, as the initial excitement settled, it became evident that something crucial was missing—clear and concise messaging that resonated with my target audience.

Faced with this realization, I made a bold decision to pivot. Understanding the significance of a compelling brand identity, I chose to rebrand my first business and concurrently develop my personal brand, Chandra Fussell Enterprises. With limited resources, I embarked on a journey to seek professional guidance. This is where the power of collaboration with like-minded, talented individuals came into play.

Enter Tiera Alexander, the visionary CEO of Blaznwoman Agency (Branded Chandra Fussell Enterprises), and Jamika Render (Re-branded JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm), the strategic mind behind JLR & Co—both thriving marketing firms owned by black females. Trusting in their expertise, I handed over the reins of my brand’s transformation to these two remarkable leaders. It turned out to be the best decision I could have made.

Trusting the Process: One of the most challenging aspects of the pivot was relinquishing control and trusting the process. As a founder who had been deeply involved in every aspect of my businesses, this shift was both liberating and nerve-wracking. However, I knew that to truly evolve, I needed to get out of my own way and let the professionals work their magic. They brought the following to my businesses.

• Clarity in Messaging: The first order of business was refining and clarifying my messaging. Tiera and Jamika dove deep into understanding the essence of Chandra Fussell Enterprises and JCG Consulting & Coaching, extracting the core values and unique offerings that would resonate with executive women and organizations. The result was a messaging strategy that was not only clear but also compelling, effectively communicating the mission and vision of the brand.

• Visual Identity Overhaul: A brand is not just words; it’s a visual representation of values and aspirations. Blaznwoman Agency and JLR & Co. seamlessly crafted clean logos and brand identities that captured the spirit of Chandra Fussell Enterprises & JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm. The new visuals spoke volumes, conveying professionalism, empowerment, and a sense of community.

• Embracing Diversity in Collaboration: The decision to collaborate with black female-led marketing firms was intentional. It not only aligned with my commitment to supporting diverse businesses but also brought a fresh perspective to the rebranding process. The collaboration not only transformed my brand but also highlighted the power of fostering connections and promoting diversity in entrepreneurship.

• The Outcome: A Transformed Brand and a Renewed Vision: The journey through rebranding was undoubtedly a rollercoaster, but the destination was well worth it. Chandra Fussell Enterprises and JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm emerged with a clear identity, resonant messaging, and a visual presence that captivates its audience. The pivot not only transformed the business externally but also sparked an internal renewal of vision and purpose.

In the world of entrepreneurship, the ability to pivot strategically can be the defining factor between stagnation and success. My experience with rebranding taught me that sometimes, stepping back and trusting the expertise of others is the catalyst needed for transformative growth. As Chandra Fussell Enterprises and JCG Consulting & Coaching Firm enters this new chapter, I am not just a business owner but a testament to the power of embracing change and evolving with purpose.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Certainly, building a clientele requires a multifaceted approach that integrates patience, clear messaging, and a genuine passion for the mission. My strategy revolves around the belief that I am intricately connected with my clientele — their challenges, aspirations, and journeys are reflections of my own. This deep understanding forms the foundation of an effective and empathetic approach to clientele growth.

**1. Patience as a Virtue:
• Patience is not just a virtue; it’s a strategic necessity when it comes to building a clientele. Relationships take time to develop, and trust needs to be earned. I understand the importance of allowing these connections to naturally evolve, recognizing that meaningful partnerships are not built overnight.

**2. Authentic Messaging:
• Clear and authentic messaging is at the core of my strategy. I aim to communicate the essence of my services in a way that resonates with my clientele. By sharing my personal experiences and passion for empowering women in the corporate space, I create a narrative that is not only relatable but also inspiring.

**3. Alignment with Clientele:
• I firmly believe that I am my clientele, and they are me. This alignment is not just on a professional level but extends to shared values and aspirations. By understanding the nuances of their journeys, I can tailor my services to address their specific needs, fostering a connection that goes beyond business.

**4. Empowering Women and Organizations:
• For executive women, I have the honor of guiding them through the intricacies of the corporate landscape. This involves not only providing strategic advice but also serving as a mentor and advocate. On the organizational front, I focus on mobilizing dynamics within companies to enrich and elevate their brands, creating an environment that fosters growth and inclusivity.

**5. Staying Engaged in the Industry:
• To remain effective and relevant, I actively engage in the corporate space. This involves continuous learning, staying abreast of industry trends, and participating in relevant events. By immersing myself in the environment, I not only enhance my own expertise but also demonstrate a commitment to understanding the ever-evolving needs of my clientele.

In essence, my approach to growing clientele is a blend of strategic patience, authentic messaging, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact. By being deeply connected to my clientele and staying engaged in the industry, I not only build professional relationships but also contribute to the enrichment and elevation of both individuals and organizations within the corporate landscape.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.iamchandrafussell.com www.jcgccf.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcgcc_firm/?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcgccf/

Image Credits
Photos Credit: Antonio M. Johnson, A Moment In Shine