We had the good fortune of connecting with Elaine Beattie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elaine, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my own business for two reasons, both deeply personal and shaped by my experience in the hospitality industry.

First, as a baby boomer, I wanted to create a healthier rhythm for my life. In hospitality, where we operated 24/7, achieving balance was nearly impossible. I genuinely loved the work—it was exhilarating and addictive—but I became a workaholic with no boundaries. I was single, not dating, and without children. There was nothing to pull me away from the relentless demands of the job. Over time, I realized that this way of living was unsustainable.

Second, I began to notice the toll the industry was taking on my colleagues and mentors. I saw the impact of the high-pressure lifestyle: people gaining weight, drinking excessively, struggling with rest and sleep, and watching their personal lives crumble. One moment, in particular, stood out: my mentor underwent a quadruple bypass surgery, a stark wake-up call that made me reflect on the need for extreme self-care.

These experiences convinced me to make a bold change. I resigned from the industry I loved to establish my own business as a coach, dedicated to supporting leaders at the highest levels. My mission is to help others avoid the burnout I witnessed—and experienced—and to guide them in creating lives and careers that prioritize their well-being without sacrificing success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is my deep passion for developing others. I have a unique gift for recognizing potential in everyone I serve, and I am committed to ensuring that the right people are in the right positions to excel. My greatest pride lies in mentoring women, particularly women of color, who now thrive globally, do work they love, and make a significant impact as leaders. Guiding these women into their greatness and witnessing their brilliance shine has been one of my most fulfilling accomplishments.

I am a woman of faith and believe my success is divinely orchestrated. My journey as a successful leadership and business coach results from investing in myself, embracing lifelong learning, and combining advanced degrees in leadership, management, and religious leadership. My professional experience spans ministry and the marketplace, cutting across multiple industries. My leadership expertise is grounded in hands-on operational experience and serving at the highest organizational levels.

I am also a co-author of the book *Chasing 100*, where I share my story in a chapter titled “You Are Not Them.” This phrase, a wake-up call from my mother, profoundly shaped my leadership journey as a young African American woman ascending the ranks in the hospitality industry. The path was anything but easy, as I faced sexism, racism, and ageism. There were countless moments of frustration, anger, and fear. I vividly recall calling my mother in tears, feeling overlooked, disregarded, and even gaslighted. Her words reminded me that my path was unique, and I couldn’t afford to conform or lose myself to fit into systems not designed for me.

Through those difficult experiences, I learned several life-changing lessons. First, it is crucial to surround yourself with truth-tellers—friends and family who love you enough to be honest, even when the truth stings. Second, authenticity is non-negotiable; striving for positions or status at the expense of your true self leads to emptiness. Finally, building a professional tribe of mentors, sponsors, coaches, and therapists is essential. These strategy and conversation partners offer guidance and fortify you as you navigate the challenges of leadership.

Today, my work is deeply rooted in these lessons. I am committed to helping others overcome barriers, rise to their potential, and lead authentically with courage and grace.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Even though we moved to Atlanta in 2016, I still feel like a bit of a newcomer. Life had other plans for me early on. I underwent four surgeries within three years, which kept me close to home and in recovery mode. My husband and I also dove into seminary life, leaving me with so much more to learn and discover about this vibrant city.

If I were to show someone around, I’d make it a fun and adventurous experience! First, we’d hop on a bus tour to soak in the sights and get the lay of the land—it’s the perfect way to kickstart any exploration. Then, we’d stop by some of Atlanta’s incredible churches. There’s nothing quite like experiencing powerful praise and worship, a soul-stirring sermon, and the warmth of fellowship with other believers.

Since I’m a self-proclaimed spa queen, our adventure would have to include visits to a few of the city’s best spas for some serious relaxation and indulgence. And to top it all off, I’d whisk them outside the hustle and bustle of Atlanta to Serenbe, a stunning wellness community. It’s the perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and inspiration—a hidden gem that feels like a retreat within a retreat.

Every stop would be filled with laughter, discovery, and a touch of my favorite things, making it an unforgettable Atlanta experience!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This is a difficult question. I have been fortunate to have many people supporting me in my success. My deceased father was my greatest cheerleader. I had the fortune to connect with several individuals who stepped in as my mentors throughout my career. However, I can truly say that my husband, Rev. Dr. Charles Beattie, and my sister friends Marcia Rafig and Jackie Kidd have been there with me every step of the way for over 30+ years

Website: https://ElaineSpeaking.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beattie.elaine/?hl=en#

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-robinson-beattie-13a58323/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553649637805

Image Credits
Chrystal Golden
Orlando Evans – Bow Tie Photos

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