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

Tasha , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the toughest things about progressing in your career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

Social work is a beloved profession driven by compassion, but it comes immense emotional burdens. I witnessed firsthand the trauma, abuse, and systemic failures that affected the most vulnerable populations, and I was unable to help change deeply rooted issues.

I formed strong connections with clients, only to see them struggle or regress due to circumstances beyond their control.
The constant exposure to suffering lead to secondary trauma, burnout, and emotional exhaustion.
Balancing empathy with professional boundaries was a daily challenge, as the weight of others’ pain didn’t disappear at the end of the workday.
The stress became a real problem and self-care was the solution. I had to learn how to care for myself because all I had ever known how to do was care for others.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a dedicated mother of three and a proud grandmother of four. My family is my greatest priority, and I am fiercely protective of my loved ones, both young and adult.

Professionally, I am a Youth Connections Advocate, committed to finding adoptive resources and support for youth in foster care. With over 20 years of experience in child welfare, I have worked in various capacities to ensure that children and families receive the care and guidance they need. My passion lies in creating lasting connections for those who need them most.

Growing up, I faced significant challenges. With an absent father and a mother struggling with addiction and abuse, I moved between homes until securing my own apartment at just 15 years old. By 16, I became a mother, navigating life without guidance or support. Despite these obstacles, I was determined to break the cycle. I became the first of my mother’s children to earn a college degree, driven by the desire to provide a better future for my own children.

My experiences shaped my passion for giving back. I’ve dedicated my life to supporting at-risk youth and families—those without role models, those who feel lost or forgotten. My mission is to empower and uplift, ensuring that others have the support and opportunities I once lacked.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

I’ve read many books, but none more impactful than The Bible. The philosophy of entrepreneurship aligns closely with many biblical principles, emphasizing diligence, integrity, perseverance, and stewardship. Verses such as Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” highlight the importance of faith in business endeavors.
Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” underscores the value of hard work and excellence.
Additionally, Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents, teaches the importance of using one’s gifts wisely, taking risks, and being accountable for resources entrusted to us. Entrepreneurship, like faith, requires vision, resilience, and a willingness to serve others, demonstrating that business success is not just about profit but also about purpose and impact.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

As a Black professional woman, I have faced many obstacles throughout my career. When I was hired as a director at a multi-million-dollar company, I encountered resistance from individuals who were not receptive to a woman of color in a leadership role. I experienced exclusion, was subjected to racial slurs, and even received threats on my personal phone.

Despite reporting these incidents, the response was dismissive, with assurances that the individuals would “get over it.” Unfortunately, the behavior was excused and ignored.

Through it all, I remained focused and committed to my role, never allowing these challenges to undermine my leadership or resilience.