We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kelly Ragin Whaley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kelly below.

Hi Kelly, thanks for 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?

My parents instilled in me self-worth and self-love. Especially, my Mother. She poured into me at an early age. She affirmed me before that was ever a “thing”. She had wall art all over my bedroom. As a little girl, All I ever saw were words like BELIEVE, DREAM and ACHIEVE. I never knew then how vital those words would become to my life.

Kelly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Being a business owner has become more important to me than I ever imagined. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. It actually runs in my blood and throughout my family. But for over 30 years, I worked as a federal employee. I quickly learned that could do both, but it took discipline. I tried my hand at it in 1995 by opening a home day care. 2 years later, my interest changed. But several years later, I chose to do something that I was truly passionate about. Women’s empowerment In 2008, I launched an organization called KellyKares Empowering events. This was jus the beginning of what has grown tremendoulsy, in terms of other businesses as well as community efforts. From this organization, I launched a publications company called, MyStory Publications. I started out creating magazines as a means to share some amazing stories of local community based businesses and successes. Then, from there, I wrote 5 books. Today, I’m blessed to own a bookstore/booktique called, More Than Just Books”. I’m able to use this platform in so many ways. The biggest factor in all of this is now–I can empower others and give them something to smile about…and something to be proud of overall.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2017, I launched my publishing company. It was such a huge highlight in my life. It was something new and definitely exciting. Then, 1 year later, I was diagnoses with Multiple Sclerosis. I lost my vision in my left eye. I was devastated and became depressed. But I knew better. Though I was human, I knew that I couldn’t stay in that place too long or the depression might take over. So, through prayer and God’s help, I persevered. I pressed my way. I had to talk to myself all the while trying to cope. Finally, I remembered that I still had a voice. Though I couldn’t see physically with my left eye, I could STILL SEE a vision for my dream to continue. I then had a chat with my Son-in-law and we came up with an idea to keep the Publications company afloat. I then launched a tier division of the company called, The SitDown with Kelly. This was like the best decision ever! My tagline is; “Where we bring to you Ordinary People, Doing Extraordinary things”. This allowed me to interview those in the community doing exceptional work. This pivot in my life and career served as a game changer. Overall, 15 years later, We are still here! Loving on our community.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Being true to your brand and your customers or clients has proven to work for me. It’s been the consistency that works best. Once I show that I’m giving my very best time after time, I truly believe that makes the difference. And it’s very easy to do when you’re passionate about your “why”. I love what I’m doing and I consider it a true blessing–so Word of Mouth has become my strategy. Others share on my behalf and each time I receive a referral, I beam with pride. God is good.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kellyragin.com
• Instagram: kellykares321
• Facebook: Kelly R. Whaley
• Youtube: “The SitDown With Kelly”

Image Credits
Image credits- Kelly Whaley