Meet RAHSAAN JARRELL | Entrepreneur

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

Hi RAHSAAN, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my first business was driven by my passion for travel, the desire for autonomy, and my extensive experience as the family travel planner. I wanted to combine my love for exploring new destinations with the freedom to offer personalized, high-quality service tailored to each client’s needs. I envisioned a business that not only provides seamless travel planning but also inspires and excites people about their journeys, ensuring every trip is memorable and stress-free.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a retiring veteran teacher with 25 years in education, my journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping others and a passion for lifelong learning. This commitment extends beyond the classroom into all my professional endeavors. I am the proud founder of Radiant Vacays and Group Getaways, a travel agency that specializes in creating personalized and unforgettable travel experiences. What sets us apart is our dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs and leveraging my extensive industry knowledge to deliver exceptional service.

In addition to my travel agency, I am the founder of Rhonda’s Angel Network Organization, a nonprofit organization established in honor of my best friend who committed suicide six years ago. This organization focuses on providing mentoring and resources for young women ages 11-25 years of age. I’m incredibly proud of the impact we’ve had thus far in empowering and uplifting young women to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.

Furthermore, I am a certified life coach and the owner of Manifesting Radiance Consulting LLC, an empowerment coaching business dedicated to helping women manifest their full potential and radiate their inner brilliance. Through personalized coaching sessions, I guide clients on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation.

Getting to where I am today professionally was not easy. Balancing my roles in education, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit work required immense dedication and time management. Overcoming challenges often meant leaning on my support network, staying focused on my goals, and continuously seeking out learning opportunities to improve my skills.

The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is the power of perseverance and the impact of helping others. I want the world to know that my brand and story are built on a foundation of compassion, service, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival and Hyde Park Exploration
Morning: Arrive in Chicago and check into our hotel in the Hyde Park/South Loop area.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Valois, a Hyde Park institution known for its cafeteria-style dining and hearty breakfast options.
Evening: Explore the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, visiting landmarks like the University of Chicago campus.

Day 2: South Loop and Cultural Exploration
Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Ain’t She Sweet Café, a cozy spot serving delicious soul food classics.
Afternoon: Visit the Shedd Aquarium in the Museum Campus area, where you can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world.
Evening: Have dinner at M Lounge, a chic lounge in the South Loop offering live jazz music and a diverse menu of modern American cuisine with Southern influences.

Day 3: Navy Pier and Magnificent Mile
Morning: Take a short drive to Navy Pier for breakfast at The Brown Sack, a Black-owned sandwich shop known for its tasty breakfast options.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Navy Pier’s attractions, such as the Centennial Wheel and Chicago Children’s Museum.
Evening: Head to the Magnificent Mile for dinner at The Soul Shack, a family-owned restaurant serving up delicious soul food favorites in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Riverwalk and Architecture Tour
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Batter & Berries in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, known for its creative twists on classic brunch dishes.
Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk and admire the city’s stunning architecture.
Evening: Have dinner at Truth Italian Restaurant in Bronzeville, offering authentic Italian cuisine with a Southern flair.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Foodie Delights
Morning: Visit the Planetarium in the Museum Campus area to explore fascinating exhibits showcasing outer space and galaxy beyond Earth.
Afternoon: Enjoy a tour of Bronzeville that highlights the black evolution of black culture in Chicago.
Evening: Explore Bronzeville’s vibrant cultural scene and have dinner at The Soul Shack, a beloved neighborhood spot known for its hearty breakfast and Southern-inspired comfort food.

Day 6: Recreation and Relaxation
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles in Bronzeville, known for its delicious soul food brunch options.
Afternoon: Spend the day relaxing at 31st Street Beach’s Pier 31, located in the Bronzeville neighborhood, and soak up the sun.
Evening: Enjoy having a spa night at the hotel complete with massages and pampering.

Day 7: Farewell and Reflection
Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at Valois, savoring our last moments in the Hyde Park and South Loop areas.
Afternoon: Take one last stroll through the neighborhood, reflecting on the memorable experiences and delicious meals you’ve enjoyed during your stay.
Departure: Bid farewell to Chicago, knowing that we’ve supported Black-owned businesses and experienced the diverse culinary offerings of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My entrepreneurship journey that began with my travel business wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support and encouragement of several key people and influences in my life. First and foremost, my family deserves immense credit for their unwavering belief in me and their patience during the early days of the business. They were my first clients, my biggest cheerleaders, and their trust and enthusiasm were vital. My friends also played a crucial role by consistently referring their own networks to my services, helping me build a solid client base. Their trust in my abilities and their word-of-mouth referrals were instrumental in getting my business off the ground. Additionally, I want to acknowledge the various travel industry networks and associations that provided resources, education, and a community of like-minded professionals. To all these people and influences, thank you for being part of my journey.

Website: www.radiantvacays.com www.ranorg.org www.manifestingradiance.com www.raeswayedu.com

Instagram: @radiantvacays @ranorganization @manifestingradiance @raeswayedu

Linkedin: linkedin.com/radiantvacays linkedin.com/ranorganization linkedin/com/manifestingradiance

Twitter: @ranorganization

Facebook: @radiantvacays @ranorganization @manifestingradiance @raeswayedu

Youtube: @radiantvacays @ranorganization @manifestingradiance

Image Credits
Capture Me Photography