We had the good fortune of connecting with Michaela Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Michaela, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks is a MUST! I’ve always had the mindset of not living in regret and giving things a try. You will never know what you’re capable of achieving if you don’t take a leap. Failure is inevitable, but if your intentions are pure and grit prevails, you will succeed.
In my career, I’ve been very successful in enterprise sales, selling into some of the world’s most recognizable brands. I have always been one of a few women and typically the only African American on my team.
Some can look at these odds and let it defeat them, I on the other hand, allow the risk of going after these roles to fuel me and drive me towards my goals.
Then there’s also the risk of the unknown, venturing into uncharted territory. This applies within corporate America and starting your own business. Taking a bet on yourself is the best investment you can make.
When launching my brand, Splash Coffee Co., I decided, win or fail, I’m investing in me and setting an example for my son to get out of the box society puts us in and create a world of his own.
All in all, taking risks is the most rewarding experience if you open yourself to being stretched outside of your comfort zone.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Splash Coffee Co. is a specialty organic coffee brand. We believe our coffee lovers deserve to have a balanced cup of coffee that is pesticide free and filled with amazing flavor and nutrients. We make a conscious effort to source from women-owned farms to help provide working wages and end the cycle of poverty. Additionally, sustainability is at the core of our processes. Our coffee is roasted using one of the world’s most sustainable machines available. It makes us feel good that we’re giving back to our planet. We’re proud supporters of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and continue to foster opportunities with entrepreneurs alike to empower future generations.
Before starting Splash Coffee Co. I researched a ton and took the time to immerse myself into the industry I was embarking on. It was not easy by any means. The concept of my business started while also becoming a new mommy, this was the biggest challenge for me. I would study and plan in-between the baby being asleep and in-between working my full-time job.
I’m most proud of having a successful launch in 2021! One of the lessons I’ve learned is that brand alignment is key when building awareness and it’s ok to take a step back to reset if something isn’t working for your brand.
While coffee is consumed by millions daily, black-owned coffee brands are underrepresented in this multi-billion dollar industry. Our goal at Splash Coffee Co. is to help change the narrative one cup at a time! We are forging our way in the coffee industry and excited for what’s in store in 2022.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Buckle up, we’re going out!
Food: Delbar, Eight Sushi, Le Colonial, Rumi’s Kitchen, Amore e Amore (formerly il localino)
Places to go: The Battery, Buckhead Village, Ponce City Market, Avalon, Krog Market
Adventure: Beltline, Helicopter Ride
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?
My husband Cody Williams, literally my biggest supporter and my not so secret weapon to success. I keep him up at night with all of my crazy ideas. He’s the best Husbandger!
Jillian Almeida – She’s the best business consultant who will light a fire under you. She’s been there for every self-doubt moment or just needing someone outside of my brain to strategize with.
Mark Madden – Helped me with venue scouting and marketing for my launch campaign and just overall staying connected with various events throughout Atlanta.
I also would like to shoutout all of my family, friends, and sorority sisters that have supported and encouraged me along the way!
Website: www.splashcoffeeco.com
Instagram: @splashcoffeeco
Facebook: Splash Coffee Co
Image Credits
Teraneshia Nash