Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to LaKesa McGraw. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

LaKesa, appreciate you joining us today. Looking back, what’s an important lesson you learned at a prior job?

The most important lesson I’ve learned came from my years in Human Resources, people are the foundation of every successful business. Early in my HR career, I worked with a company experiencing high turnover and low engagement. My instinct was to focus on policy and process, but what changed everything was realizing that people don’t leave jobs, they leave environments where they don’t feel seen or supported.

That experience taught me to lead with empathy and intention. I began investing more in coaching, development, and honest communication. It not only transformed the workplace culture but also taught me the power of creating spaces where people can thrive.

That same principle is now the heartbeat of my business. As a coach and business owner, I prioritize people first, helping clients and organizations align purpose, performance, and personal growth. It’s a lesson that continues to guide every decision I make.

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.

My name is LaKesa McGraw, and I’m the founder of Inside of Y.O.U., LLC, a life coaching and training company designed to help individuals and organizations grow from the inside out. With over 11 years in Human Resources and certification as a Life and Leadership Coach, I specialize in developing people, helping them lead with purpose, confidence, and authenticity.

My journey began in HR, where I discovered my passion for helping others evolve beyond their job titles and reconnect with their “why.” That passion inspired me to create a space focused on transformation, blending professional development, personal growth, and healing.

Through Inside of Y.O.U., I offer life coaching, leadership development, and customized training programs that strengthen culture, boost engagement, and empower growth. What sets me apart is my people-first approach, I meet clients where they are, challenge them to grow, and help them show up as their best selves.

I’m most proud of the impact, watching clients gain confidence, find clarity, and transform their lives and leadership. My mission is simple: to help people do the inner work that leads to outer success.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

I believe genuine connection builds lasting loyalty. One of the main ways I stay connected with my clients and community is through my weekly #KeysKouch messages, short, heartfelt reflections designed to inspire, encourage, and challenge people to pause and check in with both their head and heart.

These messages aren’t just motivational quotes; they’re real, transparent reminders that growth is a process and that it’s okay to show up as you are while working toward who you’re becoming. Whether shared through social media, email, or my sessions, they’ve become a consistent source of encouragement that clients look forward to each week.

Beyond that, I make it a point to personally check in with clients, celebrating their wins, supporting them through challenges, and ensuring they feel seen and valued beyond the coaching sessions. That consistency and authenticity are what foster loyalty, it’s not just business, it’s relationship-building from the inside out.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

My biggest advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale is to lead with both head and heart. It’s easy to focus on performance metrics, but people don’t stay motivated by numbers alone; they stay motivated by connection, clarity, and consistency.

Start by getting to know your team beyond their titles. Understand what drives them, recognize their efforts, and create a space where they feel safe to share ideas and challenges. Clear communication and genuine appreciation go a long way.

I also believe in transparency; people respect honesty, even when the message is tough. When leaders communicate openly and model accountability, it builds trust and unity.

And finally, never underestimate the power of well-being. Encourage balance, celebrate progress, and remind your team that rest is a part of productivity. When people feel valued as humans first, performance naturally follows.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.insideofyoullc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koachkey?igsh=MWRvdzh2dHBxbDh4Ng%3D%3D
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walkintoyourgreatness