We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gerita Cook a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Gerita , thanks for joining us today. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?
About the Author – Gerita Cook Gerita Cook is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, author, and community advocate. She is the proud owner of Xpress Medical Specialist and GC4 Enterprises, where she provides publishing, consulting, and professional development services to help others reach their fullest potential.
As a published author, Gerita has written and ghostwritten numerous works, including two acclaimed Christian self-help books—Don’t Block the Message and The Aspects of a Wife—as well as a moving Christian romance novel titled Untold. Each of her books reflects her deep faith, resilience, and passion for inspiring others to walk boldly in purpose.
Over two decades ago, Gerita founded D4D (Destined 4 Divineness, formerly Divas 4 Divas – Atlanta Chapter), a nonprofit organization committed to empowering women to lead and serve in their communities. Through D4D, she continues to organize impactful community service events such as health fairs and homeless outreach initiatives, while teaching women the value of financial literacy, leadership, and sisterhood.
With over 25 years of experience spanning healthcare, education, community advocacy, and motivational speaking, Gerita’s professional journey is a testament to lifelong learning and service. She has served with respected organizations including the Medical Reserve Corps, American Red Cross Disaster Relief Team, American Medical Technologist Association, American Heart Association, National Board of Orthopedic Technologists, and the Independent Book Publishers Association.
Her academic background includes studies in Nursing, Orthopedics, Business, Psychology, and General Studies at institutions such as Southern New Hampshire University, Clayton State University, University of Phoenix, Griffin Technology College, and Georgia Medical Institute.
Gerita’s credentials are extensive—she is a Certified Allied Health Instructor, Certified Life Coach, and instructor in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Stroke Life Support (ASLS), and Bloodborne Pathogens and First Aid. As a curriculum writer and mentor, she is affectionately known by her more than 2,000 students as the “Cook Cuties.”
Under the GC4 Enterprises umbrella, Gerita recently launched Greatness Literary Magazine, a platform dedicated to celebrating creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural excellence. The publication has been officially granted ISSN registration for both print and online editions by the United States Library of Congress, marking another milestone in her ongoing mission to empower voices and inspire greatness.
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.
Tagline: Empowering Voices. Elevating Brands. “Where Creativity Meets Strategy.” | “Helping You Publish, Promote, and Prosper.” |
“Fueling Minority Startups and Creative Success.” | “Affordable Support. Impactful
Results.”)
Company Overview
GC4 Enterprises is a creative consulting and publishing agency dedicated to
empowering independent authors, minority-owned startups, and creative entrepreneurs.
We specialize in providing affordable, high-quality publishing, branding, and marketing
solutions that help clients bring their visions to life while achieving long-term business
success.
With a team passionate about equity, innovation, and storytelling, GC4 Enterprises
bridges the gap between creativity and strategy—helping clients grow their influence,
elevate their brands, and reach broader audiences.
Core Competencies
Publishing Services – Manuscript editing, design, layout, ISBN registration, and
distribution assistance for independent authors and small presses.
Brand Development – Strategic brand identity creation, logo and collateral design, and
storytelling that aligns with mission and market.
Marketing & Communications – Targeted marketing campaigns, content strategy, and
social media management to amplify brand visibility.
Business Consulting – Strategic planning, startup guidance, and operational support
for minority-owned and creative businesses.
Workshops & Training – Hands-on training sessions for entrepreneurs in branding,
publishing, and business growth.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide affordable publishing and consulting services to independent
authors, minority-owned startups, and creative businesses. We are dedicated to
building a strong support system for entrepreneurs by offering innovative marketing
solutions, strategic guidance, and hands-on support to help maximize brand exposure
and long-term success.
Vision Statement
To empower a new generation of independent creators and entrepreneurs—especially
those from underrepresented communities—by making publishing, branding, and
business growth accessible, strategic, and sustainable.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
The 4 Cornerstones of Your Success by Andre L. Parker is one of those books that found me right when I needed it most. It truly helped me shape my business and has had a lasting impact on how I lead and manage others.
Parker’s message in Building a Life Beyond Your Imagination resonated deeply with me. He masterfully breaks down the four key pillars that form the foundation of lasting success—Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finance. These cornerstones remind us that real achievement isn’t just about wealth or recognition; it’s about balance, purpose, and wholeness.
So many of us excel in one or two areas while neglecting the others. Some are financially secure but struggling personally. Others are strong in faith yet overlook their physical health or financial wellness. Parker’s insight challenges us to strive for harmony in all four areas—to live not just successfully, but abundantly.
This book reminded me that success isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about building a life grounded in the values that truly matter. For me, that’s exactly what The 4 Cornerstones of Your Success represents: a life beyond imagination.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
1. Referrals & Word-of-Mouth
Why it works: People trust recommendations more than ads.
How to maximize:
Ask satisfied clients to refer others — make it easy with a referral link or small thank-you gift.
Create a short “Client Success Story” post on social media featuring your client and tag them.
2. LinkedIn Networking
Why it works: It’s where decision-makers and entrepreneurs hang out.
How to maximize:
Post consistent value-driven content: tips, behind-the-scenes, client wins.
Use LinkedIn’s search filters to connect with your ideal clients (authors, startup founders, etc.).
Send warm, personalized DMs — not salesy ones.
3. Email Marketing & Newsletters
Why it works: Keeps you top-of-mind with past leads and builds trust.
How to maximize:
Offer a free downloadable resource (like “10 Steps to Self-Publishing Success”) to grow your list.
Share monthly newsletters with publishing tips, upcoming events, and client spotlights.
4. Social Media Groups & Communities
Why it works: You meet people already interested in your niche.
How to maximize:
Join Facebook and Instagram groups for entrepreneurs, writers, or small business owners.
Be genuinely helpful—answer questions and offer insight before selling.
5. Speaking Engagements & Workshops
Why it works: Establishes you as an expert.
How to maximize:
Partner with local libraries, women’s business centers, or virtual conferences.
End your presentation with a free consultation or resource offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gc4enterprises.com
- Instagram: gc4enterprises.com/bowling green, kentucky
- Facebook: gc4enterprises
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ gerita-cook-67381076
Image Credits
GC4 Enterprises and XposedMedia/ Darian Ray