We had the good fortune of connecting with Ronnae Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ronnae, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I honestly didnt have one. I was so used to working for companies and supporting programs, it was just something I did. And one day I as dinner with a few “Childcare”friends and was told I need to start a consulting company. So many programs have issues with licensing and do not know how to pivot.
After a brief conversation with myself, I decided to give it a try. The news of me starting a consulting company spread pretty quickly.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have a BS. in Child and Family Development Masters in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management
Started as a lead teacher, moved into Management.
While working as a manager and receiving several licensing complaints for my program, I learned of the available position with Bright from the Start, Georgia Department of Early Care and learning.
Applied… Started as a Family Daycare consultant, eventually got my caseload to include homes and centers
I did unannounced regulatory visits, investigations (all categories) Meaning as small as no veggies at lunch to an infant with a broken femur, amendments, change of ownerships, and unlicensed childcare inspections. (Meaning I want to programs keeping children without a license, illegal programs)
After working in licensing for several years, I was approached by a large franchise group to work as a regional manager. I had recently completed a pretty serious investigation at one of their corporate location. my role changed after about a year, into the marketing project manager, but I worked closely with the CEO. I supported schools with crisis management as well as marketing LOL
I did a little bit of everything while at Kids R Kids! Great brand! I learned so much about myself and my skills working there.
I left there to explore more opportunities with a childcare marketing company.
Lessons I learned….
So many… if you never try, you will never know.
You are capable of more than you typically give yourself credit for
You never know who’s watching, always bring your best to the table
If you mess up, in most cases, you can fix it because everyone has messed up before! just be honest about it.
I am proud that I never let a set back stop me! Now I may of slowed down some… but I never stopped.
I am excited to see the growth potential of my business. SO many states are getting stricter about the care provided for children in care. the need for training and staff development is pivotal In retaining staff within childcare programs.
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?
Its Atlanta, there’s always a festival Food wise, Poor Calvin’s NEVER disappoints. Food is TOP TIER!!
The Battery at Truist Park is always a good time. We can eat, walk around etc.
Tulum is a nice vibe… I think that is Buckhead! The ambiance is amazing!
C&S is yummy and consistent!
Atlas has a great bourbon selection
It really depends on the person.
My circle is so diverse! Some people would expect me to cook for them the entire weekend. LOL
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 Mom, My Dad (my personal angel), Childcare tribe! Clubhouse really connected people from all over!
Latrice “The Childcare Chic” Galloway, Jamarrion Tabor, Nick Williams “Childcare Business Growth” …they are so busy and always find time to check in on me! Encourage me!
My friends Justine, April, Professor Teresa McDermott, Jason, Hannah, and Adrian! I don’t want to leave anyone out. My circle has been so important when building this out!
My church family! They critique all my posts/DM encouragement!
IDK about anyone else, but I have friends I can cry to and other friends who hand me tissue but will make me keep working.
Nobody talks about how many times you cry as an entrepreneur LOL
Tears of joy and sorrow LOL
Website: www.culturally-yours.com
Instagram: thestatelady
Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/ronnae-w-067812b4
Facebook: Culturally Yours Consulting and Training
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP0T7oAAKBpF5JE5HOQmZnA
Other: Tik Tok- The State Lady