We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Grant, CDSP and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrea, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting a business is no small feat; it’s an expedition layered with vision, grit, and resilience. For me, the inception of my business began as a whispering thought as a child, carved out from necessity and inspired by the lives nearest to my heart. The grind of a 9-5 job, the singularity of income it provided, and the rigidity of corporate hours were shackles I yearned to break free from, not just for my sake, but for the beacon of hope that is my special needs son, and for the support I must extend to my aging parents.

The idea didn’t translate into action until an echo within me grew too loud to silence. I sought to establish multiple streams of income, a buffer against the unpredictability of life and a venture that could stretch the limits of my capabilities. I wanted to test my abilities, to see just how far I could push the horizon.
In my son’s eyes, I found a profound inspiration. He needed a role model; someone to show him that life’s obstacles are not barriers but steppingstones to greater heights. What better way to honor this than by challenging myself to venture into the entrepreneurial unknown? I understand the comfort a job provides. But comfort can breed complacency, and I wanted more from life—a story of triumph over trepidation.
Identifying my goals was tantamount to charting a map through unexplored territory. First and foremost, I aimed to build robust and diverse income streams. The intricacies of managing this would prepare me for an early retirement—a luxury I wished to afford myself, should I choose to take it.

Financial freedom was not just about security; it was about reclaiming time. Time to watch my son grow, to care for my parents, and to live without the persistent ticking of the clock measured in hourly wages. I envisioned a future where the loss of a corporate job would not rattle the foundations of my family’s wellbeing.
In truth, motivation for this bold move was twofold. Being a special needs parent demanded flexibility—to adapt to doctor’s appointments, therapies, and the unforeseen events that weave through the fabric of our daily lives. And as life’s pendulum swung, I found myself in the sandwich generation, caretaking not just my child but also my aging parents.

The agility required for this delicate dance could not be accommodated by traditional employment. It became increasingly clear; entrepreneurship was not just a choice but a necessity. In the intricate balance of life, my business is the fulcrum allowing me to lift the weights of responsibility with both hands and steady grace.
In conclusion, the inception story of my business is not just about economics or a hunger for success. It’s steeped in personal growth, family, and a tenacious pursuit of a life lived on my own terms. Each step forward is a lesson, each setback a testament to the unwavering spirit of a heart that dares to dream and a mind that strives to achieve. My business is my battlefield, my classroom, and my sanctuary—a platform from which I can enrich not only my own life but also impart strength and inspiration to those around me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From the moment I stepped into my first administrative role, I knew that the corporate world was filled with both immense challenges and vast opportunities. My career path has been shaped by a deep-rooted determination to excel and a passion for fostering diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces.

Throughout my career, I’ve celebrated several key achievements that have defined my professional identity:
• Business Development Success: By focusing on relationship-building and strategic innovation, I have consistently contributed to the exponential growth and expansion of the businesses I’ve worked with, exceeding targets and expectations.
• HR Consultant Expertise: Leveraging my expertise in human resources, I have become a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to enhance their talent management practices and employee engagement strategies.
• Advocacy for DEIBAJ: Perhaps my most fulfilling role has been as a devoted practitioner of diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, accessibility, and justice. Here, I’ve seen the transformational change that can occur when everyone has a seat at the table.
• Breaking Glass Ceilings: In a display of resilience and drive, I climbed the corporate ladder as a young black woman, earning multiple executive positions and securing a seat on Boards, all the while championing inclusivity and representation, and being a devoted caretaker.

The road to success has not been without its obstacles. One of the most pervasive challenges I faced was combating various forms of bias within the workplace. Yet, these experiences honed my ability to navigate complex situations and become an even stronger advocate for change.
Balancing a demanding career with caretaking responsibilities presented its own set of trials. I learned to prioritize, delegate, and, most importantly, to forgive myself for the inevitable imperfection that comes with juggling multiple roles.

In my professional interactions, I encountered the repercussion of being too trusting. This lesson was bitter but vital—it taught me the importance of due diligence and maintaining professional boundaries without losing my capacity for meaningful collaborations.

Reflecting on my journey, a few core lessons stand out:
• Resilience is Key: Professional growth often comes from weathering storms and emerging with renewed purpose and insight.
• Reputation is Priceless: Building and maintaining a strong, trustworthy professional reputation opens doors and creates lasting relationships.
• Never Stop Learning: Continuous education, whether formal or through life experiences, keeps one agile and well-prepared for the dynamic nature of business.

What I hope the world understands about me—and by extension, the brand I’ve built—is that success is more than personal achievement. It’s about lifting others as you climb, dismantling barriers, and creating pathways for meaningful and equitable participation for all.

Through my work, I aspire to leave a legacy that celebrates tenacity, diversity, and a compassionate understanding of the complexities of human experience. This is more than just my story. It’s a testament to the potential that lies in each of us to contribute to a more inclusive world, professionally and personally.

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?
Welcome to the ultimate week-long adventure curated just for my best friend! I’d be thrilled to have the chance to show him/her around and explore the very best our area has to offer, with a focus on local small businesses, fitting in all the good stuff from delectable food, vibrant arts, fun activities, to soothing relaxation. Here’s an outline where we’ll keep some options open so we can go with the flow and choose what suits our mood each day!

Day 1: Welcome & Culinary Delights
• Morning: Welcome breakfast at a cozy spot for homestyle breakfast.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the local farmer’s market and pick up fresh ingredients for a homemade meal.
• Evening: Dinner at a farm-to-table meets culinary art, ending the day with rooftop drinks under the stars, or on the patio.

Day 2: The Arts Immersion
• Morning: Visit a venue showcasing local artists.
• Afternoon: Interactive workshop trying out instruments or joining a group jam session.
• Evening: Catching a live play followed by after-show drinks at a nearby bar with a local jazz band.

Day 3: Fun and Games Day
• Morning: Breakfast followed by a visit to an escape room experience.
• Afternoon: Lunch at a quirky spot then off for some laser tag, mini golf or similar type fun.
• Evening: Bowling at and late-night arcade games.

Day 4: Adventure Awaits
• Morning: Early walk around the neighborhood and grab smoothies.
• Afternoon: Picnic at local pond, lake or stream.
• Evening: Casual dinner then watch the sunset.

Day 5: Cultural Explorations
• Morning: International cuisine brunch.
• Afternoon: Tour of an unknown museum and a walk-through global village market.
• Evening: Authentic dining at intimate spot with a sampling of dishes from around the world.

Day 6: Relaxation and Pampering
• Morning: Lazy brunch then head out for some pampering.
• Afternoon: Quiet time while sampling exotic teas and pastries.
• Evening: Low-key evening at cozy spunt for wine tasting and sharing platters.

Day 7: Free-Flowing Farewell
• Morning: Start with a light breakfast at preferred café or a second round at your favorite from the week.
• Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping from local artisans and boutiques, lunch at the place that’s caught your interest most.
• Evening: Farewell dinner at a community favorite known for its eclectic mix and vibrant atmosphere.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Within the fabric of every entrepreneur’s story are threads of inspiration, support, and guidance from others that often go unheralded. It is in the spirit of gratitude that I pause to humbly acknowledge those who have been instrumental in the weaving of my own narrative—a tapestry of trials, triumphs, and unyielding ambition. First and foremost, I extend my deepest thanks to my parents and son. They have not simply been my biggest champions; they have been the unwavering foundation upon which my entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured. In every venture, idea, and success, they’ve seen, beyond any doubt, a potential that propelled me forward. Their belief in me served as an internal compass, always steering me back to my purpose when the tides of uncertainty rose high.

I also give a special shoutout to the early childhood educators who were the custodians of my thirst for knowledge. These sagacious mentors didn’t just recognize my intelligence; they sculpted it. They imprinted on me the invaluable skill of critical thinking, teaching me to ask not just the ‘how,’ but the ‘why’—a question that has since been a guiding light along my entrepreneurial path.

Furthermore, I extend my acknowledgment to a handful of corporate leaders who, perhaps unknowingly, pushed me out of my comfort zone. By challenging me, they carved spaces for growth and spawned a resilience within that has become a hallmark of my business acumen. Their leadership did not just mold me; it motivated me. It was the nudge needed to leap from safe corporate nests into the exhilarating uncertainty of entrepreneurship.

In telling my story, it is imperative to stress that no success is a solitary achievement. It is a collective resonance of every ‘you can,’ every constructive critique, and every stretch of your limits. It is with deep respect and a reflective heart that I dedicate this business article to these individuals. For their contributions to my life are not just mere chapters, but are indeed the very spine that holds the narrative of my entrepreneurial ventures upright.
Without their belief, support, and challenge, the story could not and would not be the same.

Website: www.grantsconsultinggroup.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-n-grant/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/221460122425931 (Grant Consulting Group)

Image Credits
Kellie Frye photography

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