Meet Erin White | Entrepreneur & Creator of The Hospitality of Business™: Bridging Strategy and Human Connection

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

Hi Erin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business wasn’t something I always planned—it was something I became ready for. In 2016, after being laid off from Coca-Cola, I found myself at a crossroads. I had over 20 years of experience leading teams and driving strategy in industries like hospitality, consumer goods, and tech. But more than that, I had a deep belief that business could be both profitable and people-centered.

I launched Hexagon Strategy Group to help other entrepreneurs build smart, scalable businesses without losing sight of their values. I knew how lonely the entrepreneurial journey could be—especially for those of us who didn’t have a blueprint—and I wanted to create the kind of support I wish I had when I was starting out.

Over time, my work evolved into what is now The Hospitality of Business™—a philosophy and platform rooted in the idea that putting people first isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s the smartest business strategy there is. For me, this isn’t just about offering coaching or consulting—it’s about changing the way we think about leadership, growth, and service.

I built this business to empower purpose-driven entrepreneurs to grow with clarity, excellence, and compassion—and to prove that doing well and doing good can absolutely go hand in hand.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m the founder of Hexagon Strategy Group and the creator of The Hospitality of Business™, a platform that helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs grow with strategic clarity, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to people-first leadership.

What sets us apart is that we don’t just focus on growth for growth’s sake. We focus on alignment—helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses in ways that honor their values, serve their customers with excellence, and lead to long-term sustainability. My philosophy is simple but powerful: strategy and human connection belong together. That’s the heart of The Hospitality of Business™.

I’m most proud of the transformation we help entrepreneurs experience. Many of my clients come to me overwhelmed, scattered, or stuck in survival mode. Watching them grow into confident, strategic leaders who finally see themselves as CEOs—and build businesses that actually support the life they want—is deeply rewarding.

My business journey started in 2016 after being laid off from Coca-Cola. But like many entrepreneurs, I didn’t go full-time right away. I took other jobs, stayed connected to the corporate world, and continued building my business on the side. It wasn’t until 2023, once again out of necessity, that I became a full-time entrepreneur. This time, I knew I was being called to bet on myself fully.

It hasn’t been easy. There was no playbook; truthfully, I’ve faced seasons of doubt, instability, and burnout. I had to rebuild not just my income, but my confidence.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned? First, there’s no such thing as overnight success. Second, clarity beats hustle. And third, you can build a thriving business without compromising who you are.

I want the world to know this: You don’t have to choose between strategy and heart. You can build a business rooted in excellence, authenticity, and care—and you don’t have to do it alone. That’s what The Hospitality of Business™ is here for.

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 came to visit Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure she experienced the heart of the city, especially through its vibrant Black-owned businesses. We’d kick things off with a wine tasting at 3 Parks Wine Shop, owned by Sarah Pierre. It’s a cozy, community-focused space with a beautifully curated selection of wines.

We’d spend an afternoon shopping at Pinky Sky Boutique for effortlessly chic pieces, then book a private styling session with Carlita White Jewelry, where she could find a stunning, timeless piece and enjoy the luxury of one-on-one attention.

No trip would be complete without a stop at Village Market, where she could stock up on everything she’d need for daily living—from skincare to snacks to home goods—and the best part is that every single product is Black-owned. It’s not just shopping; it’s a celebration of excellence and economic empowerment.

For brunch, we’d head to Bread & Butterfly, one of my favorite spots in Inman Park, and for dinner, we’d go to Southern National in Summerhill—where Chef Duane Nutter’s modern take on Southern cuisine never disappoints.

The rest of the week would be all about exploring the city—walking the Beltline, visiting the MLK Historic District, checking out local galleries, and enjoying the creative energy that makes Atlanta feel like home. And of course, we’d circle back to 3 Parks again for a farewell toast to sisterhood, culture, and community.

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?
Without question, my parents deserve the first and loudest shoutout. Their love, prayers, sacrifices, and unwavering belief in me are the foundation of everything I’ve built. They showed me what resilience looks like in action and taught me that success isn’t just about achievement but character.

I also have to give flowers to Howard University. My time at The Mecca shaped not only how I think as a businesswoman but also how I move through the world. Howard taught me the importance of legacy, leadership, and community—and it’s a big part of why I’m so passionate about giving back and helping others grow.

And finally, I want to give an unexpected but meaningful nod to my favorite book of all time: Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. The story follows two displaced migrant workers during the Great Depression—George and Lennie—who share a dream of building a better life. It’s a tale of friendship, hope, and the harsh realities that can crush even our most beautiful intentions.

What moves me most about the book is its exploration of human dignity—how easily it can be dismissed, and how deeply we all long for belonging, safety, and purpose. That message still rings true today. We see it in business, leadership, community, and life—people striving to be seen, heard, and valued.

That’s at the core of The Hospitality of Business™. My work is about helping entrepreneurs build companies that don’t just make money but honor the people behind the products, services, and transactions. We can lead with strategy and empathy. And I believe, like George and Lennie, many entrepreneurs are holding onto a dream, and deserve support that helps that dream become sustainable and real.

Website: https://hexagongrp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themastherstrategist/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erindwhite/

Image Credits
Erin White
Women United of Greater Atlanta