Meet A’Drieanna Karlisah | Wealth Strategist, Licensed Insurance Broker & Life Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with A’Drieanna Karlisah and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi A’Drieanna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The decision to start my own business came from a deep-seated desire to break free from what’s often referred to as the “rat race.” I found myself questioning the traditional work-life routine, feeling that there surely must be more to life than just working to pay the bills. This feeling was more than a fleeting thought; it became a clarion call for change.

As a single mother, my priorities extend far beyond personal ambitions. My son is at the heart of everything I do, and the traditional nine-to-five grind was not conducive to the quality time I wished to spend with him. I constantly felt torn, as though I was pouring my energy into helping others achieve their dreams while mine lay on the back burner.

The epiphany came when I realized that by starting my own business, I could align my professional objectives with my personal life. I wanted to create an environment where I could be present for my son, witness his growth firsthand, and be an active participant rather than a spectator in his life.

Embarking on this entrepreneurial journey is about crafting a life that resonates with my values. It’s about autonomy, both personally and professionally, and the belief that the true measure of success is how well you can integrate and balance those aspects. I am under no illusions about the challenges ahead, but the potential rewards—watching my son grow up and building a business that truly reflects my vision—those make every challenge worth facing.

In essence, starting my own business is my way of reclaiming my time and redirecting it towards my family and my passions. It’s about living authentically and creating a legacy that not only provides for us but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment in my son. It’s a leap of faith, but one that I was wholeheartedly ready to take.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share more about my ventures, A’Drieanna Karlisah & Company and my work as a Wealth Strategist & Licensed Insurance Broker. At the heart of both businesses is a deep-rooted passion for positively influencing the lives of others and fostering generational growth. What truly sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to seeing individuals not just succeed in the present, but to transform their and their families’ futures.

In my life coaching practice, I focus on healing and breaking generational curses. It’s an incredible experience to witness clients overcome obstacles that have been barriers in their families for decades. Meanwhile, as a Wealth Strategist & Licensed Broker, I guide clients in creating robust financial legacies through instruments like Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policies, which offer tax-free retirement benefits alongside living and death benefits. It’s about offering tools for security and a life of ease and prosperity.

The journey here has been anything but easy. It’s been paved with sleepless nights and relentless dedication – a testament to the belief that the work we do for others transcends our own immediate needs. There were moments of personal sacrifice, times when I placed my clients’ transformations above my own comfort. But the joy of playing a part in someone’s success story has always been an opportunity too meaningful to pass up.

Through this journey, the lessons have been profound. Self-care is paramount; you cannot pour from an empty cup. I’ve learned that personal growth and development are continuous and require an open heart and mind. Understanding the season you’re in is crucial; not every moment is right for launching or expanding – sometimes, preparation is the key. And time should be our ally, not our adversary. Patience and perseverance go a long way.

I want to share my story to inspire others. From being a survivor of domestic violence to raising my son as a single mother without support, my path has been fraught with challenges. Yet, I stand here today, having built a life and businesses that are testaments to the power of resilience and faith. My message is clear: success is attainable for everyone. It’s not about the hand you’re dealt; it’s about how you play your cards with purpose, skill, and will.

Notes: ( in case you need them)

What sets me apart: My heart for people to see them grow and transform their life to change the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their family for generations to come. Everything I do is about making generational impacts whether that’s in helping them heal and break generational curses or simply helping them select policies like an IUL that help them build a tax free retirement with living benefits and death benefits to pass on as a financial legacy to their families. These things make a major difference and make life easier.

I got to where I am now by dedicating myself to the cause and the journey. It wasn’t easy at all! There were nights I didn’t sleep because I was up strategizing, I was putting my client’s needs above my own and sacrificing sleep just to make sure they have everything they need to become their best selves. It was an opportunity to be a part of someone’s story in how they made it! I couldn’t pass that up! There were days where I was sick and still pushing through. No matter how I felt in the moment, I took care of myself but I also pushed beyond that moment because I kept reminding myself that this is bigger than just me.

Lessons learned:
1. You have to take care of yourself to even have a foundation to where you can pour out to others. Self care and that personal time for prayer and meditation are everything. The time I took healing and changing the way I looked at the world had a major impact on my success and I can’t say I would be as successful without it.
2. Self development- you have to be willing to constantly develop yourself. There’s constant growth required in learning new skills, becoming a better partner, a better student and even a better teacher. There are things you learn about yourself and others every day. You have to use those things in a way that it helps you along your journey. Understanding will get you through the process without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Understand your season- every season isn’t a season to begin or launch your business full time. Before we build the tower, we have to count the cost. Cost goes beyond financial. You have to assess what this goal, dream or objective is going to cost you and if you’re willing to pay that price in this season. If not, there could be some preparation seasons before you get there and that’s fine!

4. Time is truly on our side. There is no need to rush. You are exactly where you are supposed to be. Be anxious in nothing. Take one step at a time and you’ll be just fine.

I want the world to know that if I can do it, they can. I had all of the cards stacked against me! I’m a domestic violence survivor, a single mom with no help, and so much more. I have literally worked for everything I have accomplished and I don’t believe God is a respecter of person. If I can accomplish anything so can you. It’s all about taking the cards you’re dealt and making the best out of them and leveling up round by round realizing we don’t need the best hand in terms of playing cards to have the best outcome. It’s about purpose, skill and will.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week in Columbia, SC, I’d aim to create a blend of Southern charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that showcase the best of the region.

Day 1: Welcome Dinner in Columbia
We’d start with a welcome dinner at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Columbia known for its seasonal dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: City Culture and Culinary Delights
We’d spend the morning exploring the historic sites in Columbia, such as the State House and the Riverbanks Zoo. For lunch, we’d head to Soda City Market, a bustling farmers market with a variety of food vendors. In the evening, we’d catch a show at the Township Auditorium followed by drinks at the rooftop bar at Hendrix.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure at Congaree National Park
We’d take a day trip to Congaree National Park for hiking and birdwatching. We’d pack a picnic with local goodies from Rosewood Market to enjoy in the park. In the evening, we’d have a barbecue at my place with friends.

Day 4: Arts and Education in Columbia
We’d visit the Columbia Museum of Art in the morning, followed by lunch at Drip on Main, a café known for its artistic vibe. In the afternoon, we’d take a pottery workshop at Southern Pottery in nearby West Columbia. Dinner would be at the innovative Motor Supply Co. Bistro.

Day 5: Coastal Escapade at Charleston
We’d take a day trip to Charleston, exploring the historic downtown area and enjoying a seafood lunch at Fleet Landing. In the afternoon, we’d relax on Folly Beach and have dinner at The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island.

Day 6: Personal Favorites in Columbia
We’d visit my favorite coffee shop, Indah Coffee, and spend time browsing books at The Paperback Exchange. We’d have dinner at Il Focolare, the best pizza place in town, followed by drinks and live music at The White Mule.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
We’d end the week with a delicious brunch at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli, enjoying their famous cinnamon rolls and Southern breakfast fare.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Thank you for that question. It’s a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge those who have played a crucial role in my journey.

First and foremost, I have to give all glory to God. He has truly been my guiding light throughout this entire process. The leap of faith required to embark on this entrepreneurial venture was inspired by a period of profound personal healing and the realization of my own self-worth. It was in understanding that I was in charge of my destiny where I found the courage to step out and trust that, just as God provides for the birds of the air and the fish of the sea, He would also provide for me. That realization has been the bedrock of my journey.

I also want to extend a heartfelt dedication to my grandmother, who has always been my rock. She’s been a constant source of inspiration and motivation, instilling in me a strong work ethic and a fierce sense of determination. These attributes have become the backbone of my tenacity and resilience as an entrepreneur. Her influence can’t be overstated; my life quite literally depends on the lessons she’s taught me.

Lastly, I must give a special shoutout to Samantha McCray and Jermaine Watkins Sr. from Forward Financial. They took me under their wing and introduced me to the brokering business, illustrating how empowering it can be to make your time work for you. Sam, in particular, has invested countless hours imparting her knowledge and wisdom to me. She has been there for me whenever I needed guidance or just someone to listen. Her generosity and mentorship have been invaluable, and I can’t thank her enough.

Each of these individuals, along with the spiritual guidance I’ve received, have been instrumental in my story. Their support, wisdom, and the faith they’ve had in me are a significant part of why I am where I am today. They each deserve immense credit and recognition for their contributions to my life and business.

Website: https://adrieannakarlisah.godaddysites.com/

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