Meet Erika Kelley | Army Veteran, Leadership Mentor & Coach

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

Hi Erika, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Overall, showing up for my team, the brand, and myself. In addition, Committing to a positive mindset, surrounding myself with positive and mutually beneficial people, intentionally building connections with people that have experience in the goals and dreams that I have for my life. Then giving back and sharing my intellectual property with others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m an Army Soldier. I’ve honorably served my country and community for over 20 years. I began embroidery and Sew Expressive (the brand) simulationously in 2020 with no previous experience. Excellence is in my DNA, but I didn’t always recognize it. What set’s me apart from others is I’m a master networker. I intentionally seek out people help them and myself develop as a lifelong learner. I bring BIG energy and leadership in every room. I’m most proud about being the first person in my family to retire. I got to where I am today through effective listening and implementation. I acquire a new mentor/friend at every level. Nothing in my life was easy. God is the key ingredient because honestly I’m sure how I overcame many challenges, but I’m relentless and I didn’t quit. A key lesson is that you need a team to win. You can’t do it alone. Build, nurture, and develop a winning team. I’d like the world to know that my brand is growing rapidly, but we are personable and ready to connect with them to collaborate and make a lasting impression on the world.

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?
An ideal day in the “A” would be brunch and great music at SLUSH ATL, then for some good content, we’d go to the GURL MOBB Museum and or The Bakery Co-Work. For lunch, we’d check out a new place because the city is full of places I haven’t had the opportunity to try. We’d end the day at the Hardrock REVERB downtown because their rooftop vibe and views are amazing.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
You believed in me, you showed up, set an example and gave me a positive model to follow. You instilled a winning spirit inside of me that I have carried my entire life. You breathed life into my spirits and I am able to exude positive energy and show up as my true and authentic self. I have no shame because of you my transparency opens doors and builds trust. You put me in a position and positioned the right people to assist me on this journey of finding myself. I am a leader, but an excellent follower and because of you I offer so much to any team I align with. I can not thank you enough for your selflessness, your love and your support I am because you were. I thank God every day for each of you.

Website: www.imsewexpressive.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/imsewexpressive

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-kelley-8636871aa/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/imsewexpressive

Facebook: www.facebook.com/imsewexpressive