We recently connected with Donte Davis Sr and have shared our conversation below.

Donte, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

I founded my mentoring program, Leaders In Training in 2018. The vision at this time was to help young men that were dealing with life or simply needed direction. Looking back. I wish I would have started it sooner so as to help more young men.

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

At my core, I am a mentor, educator, author, and life coach committed to empowering others to become the best versions of themselves. My journey has been shaped by faith, personal growth, and a passion for guiding the next generation toward success.

I wear many hats, but they all connect through one common thread—impact. As the founder of Leaders In Training (LIT), a dynamic mentoring program, I help young men develop leadership skills, character, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges. Through engaging conversations, real-world lessons, and a high-energy approach, I ensure that LIT is more than just a program—it’s a movement. We don’t just mentor; we cultivate future leaders, equipping them with the mindset and tools to succeed in life, school, and beyond.

As an educator, I bring that same energy into the classroom, especially in music education. I introduce students to the power of rhythm, melody, and digital music creation, helping them discover their unique voices through sound. Whether it’s through playing the keyboard, learning to read music, or diving into digital production, I make music a bridge to self-expression and creativity.

Beyond the classroom, I serve as an unofficial school counselor, stepping in to provide guidance where resources are lacking. I help students process emotions, navigate life’s struggles, and develop the resilience they need to move forward. I believe no child should feel unheard, and I take pride in being a safe space for those who need one.

Writing has been another powerful way I connect with people. As the author of 10 books, I tell stories that are real, raw, and deeply relatable. Whether it’s my urban-humor-infused reflections on marriage from both a husband’s and wife’s perspective or the uplifting messages woven through my faith-based writing, my goal is always to inspire, encourage, and entertain. I also ventured into children’s literature with my Spanish-language book, helping young readers see themselves in the stories they read..

What sets me apart? It’s my authenticity. I don’t just teach leadership—I live it. I don’t just write books—I share experiences. I don’t just coach—I connect. My work is a reflection of who I am: a man of faith, a mentor, a teacher, a storyteller, and a believer in the greatness inside every person I encounter.

I am most proud of the lives I’ve touched—the students who’ve found confidence, the mentees who’ve become leaders, the readers who’ve felt seen in my words. My mission is clear: to educate, inspire, and uplift, one conversation, one lesson, one book at a time.

Any advice for managing a team?

1. Lead with Vision and Purpose

People need to feel like their work matters. Clearly communicate the team’s goals and how each person’s role contributes to the bigger picture. When people see purpose in their work, they stay motivated.

2. Create a Culture of Respect and Trust

Respect is earned through consistency, fairness, and transparency. Be honest about challenges, give credit where it’s due, and show appreciation for effort—not just results.

3. Encourage Open Communication

Make it easy for your team to share concerns, ideas, and feedback. Be approachable, listen actively, and act on what you hear. A team that feels heard is a team that stays engaged.

4. Invest in Their Growth

Offer opportunities for skill-building, mentorship, and leadership development. When people see you care about their growth, they’re more likely to stay invested.

5. Recognize and Reward Effort

Acknowledgment goes a long way. Whether it’s a shoutout in a meeting, a handwritten note, or small incentives, celebrating wins (big and small) boosts morale.

6. Keep the Energy Up

A little fun goes a long way. Team outings, friendly competitions, or even lighthearted group chats help build camaraderie.

7. Be Fair, but Firm

Set clear expectations and hold everyone accountable—including yourself. A team that knows the standards but also feels supported will perform at a higher level.

8. Lead by Example

If you want positivity, show positivity. If you want hard work, be the hardest worker in the room. Your attitude sets the tone for the team.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients for my mentoring program, Leaders In Training, has been social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have helped me connect with young people and parents who are looking for guidance, leadership, and real-life mentorship. Through engaging content, bold visuals, and consistent messaging, I’ve been able to reach a wider audience, spark conversations, and build relationships that lead to new mentees joining the program. Whether it’s organic posts, interactive stories, or word-of-mouth referrals from past participants, social media has been the most effective tool in growing LIT and making a real impact.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/leadersintraining210
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/mentoringbecausewecare