We recently connected with Ritchie Cherry and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ritchie , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about the best boss, mentor, or leader you’ve ever worked with.
Why I Chose Ms. Christle Reed as One of the Best Bosses I’ve Ever Had
When I think of the word leader, Ms. Christle Reed is the first person who comes to mind. Since she joined the HR Talent team at Kansas City Public Schools just over two years ago, she hasn’t just led—she’s inspired.
She has this rare ability to balance professionalism with personality—bringing humor, warmth, and authenticity into every room she enters.
What makes Christle truly stand out is the way she shows up when it matters most. In my toughest moments—when doubt crept in or life threw its curveballs—she never turned her back on me. Instead, she leaned in with empathy, listened without judgment, and offered thoughtful guidance and real solutions. She saw growth in me before I saw it in myself, and she nurtured that growth with care and consistency.
Working alongside Christle hasn’t just made me a better professional—it’s made me a better person. She’s cool, collected, and sharp, and yet never too busy to check in or crack a joke that lightens the mood. That combination of strength and sincerity is rare, and it’s exactly why I count her as one of the best bosses I’ve ever had—and someone I’ll always be grateful to work with.
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.
I’m originally from East St. Louis, IL, and I’m the proud father of an incredible 13-year-old son named RJ, who definitely keeps me on my toes—both with my time and my wallet! At the height of the pandemic, I launched two businesses that have since become a major part of my purpose: BOXOUT STRESS and Good A$$ Pickles.
BOXOUT STRESS LLC is a mobile talk therapy and stress management boxing platform that helps people relieve stress in six core areas: mental, physical, emotional, social, financial, and spiritual. It’s more than just punching bags—it’s about helping folks fight back against life’s pressures through movement, mindfulness, and real talk. We offer individual and group boxing sessions that double as a safe space for people to breathe, release, and reset.
Good A$$ Pickles was born out of that same desire to bring joy and relief in tough times. We offer handcrafted pickles that pack a punch—bold flavors made with love and a whole lot of personality. We now have a subscription program so folks can enjoy their favorite pickles on the regular.
What sets my brands apart is their authenticity and community impact. Both were built during a time of crisis, and both continue to help people smile, heal, and connect. Whether it’s through a therapeutic jab-cross combo or the perfect crunch of a pickle, I’m proud that my businesses bring something real to the table.
What I’m most proud of is the impact these ventures have had on my community. I didn’t just want to start a business—I wanted to create a movement that helps people release stress, build confidence, and feel seen.
If you’re looking for something that feeds the soul, punches stress in the face, and keeps it 100% real—whether in a jar or in the ring—you’ve found it.
If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?
Yes I absolutely would. I love helping people reach and achieve their goals.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Speaking to everyone I meet and advertising at all times.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://BOXOUTSTRESS.com
- Instagram: Boxout_stress and gap_goodasspickles
- Facebook: Boxout_stress and gap (goodasspickles)
