We were lucky to catch up with Ki Gaines recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ki, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Combining my experience as a high-profile nanny and my corporate experience as an executive assistant and chief of staff, I was motivated to start my own business. Over the years, I enjoyed being the professional behind the scenes, allowing my clients to live a life that was maintained by me. Having already demonstrated that I could assist high-level individuals in managing their personal and professional lives, it was my turn to make my mark. Every position I served came with high expectations filled with luxury and routine life 24 hours a day. Keeping my clients problem-free was my primary responsibility. I had mastered the art of how to live a lifestyle better than the average person.

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

After graduating from Louisiana State University with a degree in Family Studies and Public Policy, I aspired to become a celebrity nanny. However, life directed me onto a greater path. I began working with HNWI and prominent families world-wide and established connections across numerous industries. Throughout my career, I have been able to help people reach their full potential in various aspects of their lives. Since I’ve worn many hats and never limited myself to one title, I became an expert at Lifestyle Management. My well-rounded toolkit enables me to assist entrepreneurs and public figures in achieving their desired professional and personal goals. As a lifestyle expert, I show clients that the way you conduct yourself professionally can easily transcend into your personal life.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

My shortcomings are not something I like to share, so I’m hoping this can inspire an upcoming entrepreneur. In my early career, I relocated to New York to work for a prominent family in Manhattan. This was an opportunity of a lifetime for most private sector workers so as you can imagine, I was riding a high early on. The family housed me during this time, thus eliminating the hassle of paying rent; not to mention, the salary provided was extremely favorable.

As a result of the pandemic, however, this dream situation quickly changed. Everything went downhill once the family and I mutually separated. This forced me to pursue both a new job opportunity and a place to live. I struggled to find a stable living situation after moving out. I jumped from staying with family in the Bronx, to sleeping on my friend’s couch, to having rude and disrespectful roommates. To make matters worse, my precious savings dwindled as my income was not enough to maintain my lifestyle in New York.

I did not give up during these hard times, and persevered through all of it! Towards the end, I was fortunate enough to regain some of my savings and form an exit strategy that would take me back to Texas. With a reenergized mindset, I returned home where I purchased a new car and a new apartment.

This story serves as a reminder to never get too comfortable in your current situation, and to never let hard times completely knock you out of the game. There’s a solution to all problems and a way to pivot into something better. Fast forward two years later, I am now a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Throughout my childhood and adolescence, I was constantly told “every man/woman is for himself/herself.” I feel this mentality to be a blessing and a curse. To succeed in the world, let alone in the competitive industry I entered, I had to unlearn that. What I have learned is that In any environment, whether at home, at work, or with friends, being able to collaborate is a valuable skill. Collaboration is one of the keys to unlocking my success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.connectocollab.com
• Instagram: ki.gaines
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiandragaines
• Other: Business IG: connectocollab

Image Credits
Photographer: Sohyun Choi IG: soh727 Makeup Artist: Brianna Dockery IG: muabriannadockery