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

Hi Kelsey, how do you think about risk?
Before starting H.S.S.C I will say that when I initially would hear the word risk I would have a “negative Nancy” frame of mind attached to the word Risk. However, taking risk have shaped and mold H.S.S.C into the business that is it today. If I would not have taken the risk that I’ve taken H.S.S.C would not be a successful business within the Atlanta area.

What I’ve learned about taking risk is that it has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and push me to greatness! The biggest risk that I have taken while building H.S.S.C. is leaving a stable job with consistent hours, clients, and guaranteed income during the middle of a pandemic. I recall praying and going back and forth being very anxious about informing my previous employer that I would not sign my contract to return the following year. I knew that stepping out and running a business by myself was foreign and a very new venture I was about to endure.

I also knew that I needed my two daughters to see me practice what I preach about taking risk and stepping out of your comfort zone. Ari and Kamdyn, are my two biggest cheerleaders so when I informed them that H.S.S.C would be my mine source of employment they were beyond ecstatic! It was in that moment that I realized that I made the right decision for my daughters and I.

Taking risk have impacted my life and career in so many ways but the most important role that taking risk have played have been that with God there is nothing that I can not accomplish when I put my mind to it as well as having a successful business that allows me to do the work I am most passionate about. In addition, the risks I have taken to establish H.S.S.C. have allowed me to form lifelong partnerships within the community that I am forever grateful for. The amazing families I work with who help make H.S.S.C. what it is today are a result of the risk I have taken. Furthermore, taking risk have allowed me to begin creating the life I desire for my family as well as the legacy I will leave behind for my daughters.

What should our readers know about your business?
There have been numerous lessons that I have learned as a business woman while operating H.S.S.C. When it comes to the operations of running H.S.S.C. I am currently a one person team. However, I am excited to say I am working towards expanding with a team that will include other staff to help run and operate H.S.S.C in the near future. I believe I have been able to overcome different challenges by following my blueprint that includes short and long term goals that will lead to the ultimate vision that I have for H.S.S.C. I have learned to become a planner and think strategically which planning is an area I have to be intentional with in order for H.S.S.C to be a thriving business within the community.

Major lessons that I have learned along the way is every opportunity is not a God opportunity! I have also learned that closed doors are not a missed opportunity and that there is something greater waiting on the other side of the no. One of the most important lessons I have learned is that overbooked and overworked is not equivalent to how successful you are. Balance is key to running a successful business as well as knowing when to say no!

I am most proud of H.S.S.C. for the reputation we have established within the community! H.S.S.C. has been able to maintain working relationships with our families for at least a minimum of three years and counting. I am proud of H.S.S.C. that we are built off integrity and passionate about the work we do.

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?
I am always up for being a tourist in my own city! Our itinerary would include sight seeing murals, a walk at Ponce City Market along the belt line, dinner at Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market, and grab an amazing juice from JuTox Juice Bar and Wellness Center.

Of course being a product of an HBCU a stop by the AUC center is always warranted as well as exploring the Sweet Auburn area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have two amazing daughters who motivate and push me to always show up as the best version of myself! My daughter’s, Ari and Kamdyn, all make the impossible seem possible as it pertains to H.S.S.C. I am beyond blessed to have an amazing support system from my mother and father who show up for me in ways that are unimaginable as well as making it possible for H.S.S.C. to thrive. I am beyond thankful for my friends and family who share information about H.S.S.C., make referrals, and support in every way!

Website: https://www.hokespecialtyservices.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HokeSpecialtyServiceCenter

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk0AVq7tlpxukYCY-nK4-ZQ

Image Credits
Raphael J. Holland

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.