We recently connected with Ladi Keara and have shared our conversation below.

Ladi, appreciate you joining us today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

Choosing a name for your brand or business is like painting a masterpiece—it requires patience, creativity, and a touch of magic. I remember the countless hours spent pondering speaker names, from Keara Shantell to K. Shantell, each one a brushstroke in the canvas of possibility. But it was a whisper from my past that ignited the spark of inspiration.

Growing up in the nurturing embrace of the church, I learned the art of grace and dignity, the essence of carrying oneself as a lady. It was more than just a manner of dress or speech; it was a celebration of femininity in its purest form. So when my friends affectionately dubbed me ‘Lady,’ it felt like a tribute to the values I cherished.

Embracing this title, I became the embodiment of a lady in every facet of my life. It became my mantra, my guiding light, so much so that I etched it into my skin with my very first tattoo: ‘Lady K.’ Little did I know, this was just the prelude to a greater revelation.

In the quiet moments of reflection, ‘Lady Keara’ began to blossom into a beacon of empowerment. Yet, something was missing—a spark to set it apart from the rest. It was then that I had an epiphany: why not infuse it with a touch of uniqueness? And so, ‘Ladi Keara’ was born, with an ‘I’ instead of a ‘Y,’ a subtle yet significant shift that captured the essence of my journey.

With each speaking engagement, I proudly declare my identity as ‘Ladi with an I, not a Y.’ It’s more than just a name; it’s a testament to the strength and resilience of womanhood. It’s a reminder that we are the architects of our destiny, painting our stories with bold strokes of courage and grace.

In a world that often seeks to confine us to narrow stereotypes, ‘Ladi Keara’ stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and self-expression. It’s a celebration of womanhood in all its diversity—a journey of empowerment, elegance, and unwavering strength. And as we continue to navigate the winding paths of life, may we always remember: our names are not just words; they are legacies waiting to be written.

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.

In the tapestry of life, some threads are woven with a sense of destiny. For me, stepping into the limelight as a speaker felt like a preordained path. As a shy child, I found solace in the power of words, especially when surrounded by kindred spirits who ignited my voice. From captivating Easter speeches to enchanting Christmas plays and heartfelt addresses for special church occasions, the stage became my sanctuary.

The whispers of affirmation from those around me echoed like sweet melodies in my ears. They marveled at my eloquence, my ability to articulate thoughts, and the palpable emotion that danced through the air with each word I spoke. It was as if the universe had conspired to bestow upon me a gift—a gift that chose me, rather than the other way around.

I often find myself saying that the speaker’s life found me, not the other way around. And oh, what a serendipitous encounter it has been! It’s a journey that transcends mere words; it’s a testament to the power of destiny and the boundless potential that resides within each of us.

So, who is Ladi Keara, you may wonder? She is more than a name; she is a beacon of empowerment, a vessel through which stories are told, and hearts are stirred. Her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and unwavering faith—a journey that invites women everywhere to embrace themselves, their truths, and their destinies with open arms.

From my deeply personal journey emerged the movement ‘Think Like a Lady,’ encapsulating the essence of embracing one’s truth and claiming one’s destiny with unyielding confidence.

“Think Like a Lady” has evolved into a platform that offers empowering journals, planners, and tees designed to inspire women to embrace their journey of self-discovery and resilience. These products serve as tangible reminders of the movement’s core values, encouraging women to navigate their lives with purpose and unwavering faith. In addition, “Think Like a Lady” hosts empowering events that bring women together in a supportive and uplifting environment, fostering connections and a sense of community as they embark on their individual paths of self-discovery and empowerment. This movement is not just a concept; it’s a tangible, empowering force that resonates with women from all walks of life, offering them the tools and support they need to navigate their journeys with grace and confidence.

Reminding women everywhere to ALWAYS Think Like a (L)iving life (A)ctively (D)eveloping (Y)ou.

At Think Like a Lady, we understand that empowerment isn’t just about grand gestures or monumental achievements—it’s about the everyday decisions that shape our lives and build our sense of self-worth. One of the ways we set ourselves apart is by emphasizing the power of surrounding oneself with the right crowd.

In a world where influence is abundant and choices are plentiful, the company we keep can profoundly impact our journey towards empowerment. By consciously choosing to surround ourselves with individuals who uplift, inspire, and support us, we create a nurturing environment where our voices are heard, our dreams are nurtured, and our self-equity flourishes.

Think about it: when you’re in the company of those who believe in you, encourage your growth, and celebrate your successes, you’re more likely to embrace your true essence and pursue your passions with confidence. It’s like having a cheering squad by your side, amplifying your strengths and guiding you through life’s challenges.

By highlighting the importance of this simple yet profound principle in everyday life decisions, Think Like a Lady empowers women to curate their inner circle intentionally, fostering a supportive community where they can thrive and flourish. It’s not just about what we offer—it’s about the transformative impact of surrounding yourself with the right crowd and stepping into your power with grace and confidence.

I’m immensely proud of the journey that has led me to this moment. What began as a personal exploration of empowerment has blossomed into a brand that not only empowers women but has also birthed a movement.

This brand and movement stand as a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery and unwavering faith, igniting a flame of empowerment in the hearts of women. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know is that Ladi isn’t just a title but a way of life. I live, walk, and talk the philosophy, foster a community of like-minded women, and provide tools as a source of empowerment. My goal is to help as many women as possible embrace their inherent strength and resilience and celebrate the beauty of authenticity and self-expression.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most impactful lessons I had to unlearn was the true meaning of success. When I first started my business, I often found myself feeling unaccomplished, comparing my progress to others around me who seemed to be thriving effortlessly. I would see them hosting events, selling books, and making waves in the industry, and I couldn’t help but wonder when that level of success would come my way.

But as I reflected on my journey, I realized that I was measuring success based on societal expectations rather than my own definition. I failed to recognize the significance of the small victories—the speaking engagements, the events I hosted, the books I sold—all the movement I was making towards my goals.

It was a moment of clarity when I realized that success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept; it’s deeply personal and subjective. I had to shift my perspective and redefine what success meant to me. It wasn’t about reaching a certain milestone or achieving a specific level of recognition; it was about embracing my journey, celebrating my progress, and finding fulfillment in the impact I was making.

From that moment on, I took back control of my thought process and redefined success on my own terms. I recognized that every step I took in my business, no matter how small, was a testament to the success I had created for myself. It was a powerful realization that empowered me to find joy and satisfaction in every moment, knowing that I was paving my own path towards success, one step at a time.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

When it came to funding my business, I took a practical approach that allowed me to turn my dreams into reality. Leveraging my job, I diligently saved the initial capital needed to kickstart my venture. But I didn’t stop there. I got creative and recognized the power of community support, I reached out to family and friends, inviting them to join me on this journey through donations or by purchasing our “T-shirt of the Month,” a fun and stylish way to contribute to my brand.

Through this combined effort, I was able to gather the resources necessary. It was a testament to the power of determination, resourcefulness, and the unwavering support of loved ones.

In retrospect, I realize that funding your dreams isn’t always about having a hefty bank account—it’s about making the most of what you have and finding innovative ways to turn your vision into reality. So, to anyone out there with a dream burning bright in their heart, I say this: don’t allow funds to limit your dreams. Some dreams you just have to start, and the provision will come. Trust in your vision, believe in yourself, and take that first step toward making your dreams a reality.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ladikeara.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/ladikeara
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063781165687
• Other: www.thinklikealady.com