Meet Sherie Phillips | Business Consultant & Author

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

Hi Sherie, what inspires you?
I am inspired by the life that I want to live versus the one I’ve come from. I already know what it feels like to go without. I know what it’s like to not know if you can afford to eat or choosing between a doctor visit co-pay and dinner. I’m inspired by not having to choose. So I decide to do whatever I need to do in order to have the opportunity to afford normality in my life as well as that of my family. I’ve always said “everybody is one paycheck away from the unemployment line.” My goal has always been to get as far away from that narrative as possible.

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.
I could say that I am a business consultant, but there’s so much more to my role! That’s why I go by the Business Bestie! Being a business bestie isn’t always easy, but somebody’s gotta do it! I am most proud of that role, because I’ve changed lives in this position. Not just the owner of the businesses, but their staff becomes my staff and their families become my family. Being an accountability partner for business owners can be tough at times, but when you’re passionate about seeing your community win, you know the reward is worth the war. Being able to see the success of a business because the owner believes in you and trusted you with their vision is incomparable. One thing about me, if I’m your bestie, I do what it takes to make sure you’re successful!

Word of mouth is still a powerful tool! It’s literally how I’ve gotten every opportunity in the last 4 years of being in Atlanta. Social media is great! But there’s nothing like the first hand recommendation getting you in the door. Getting to where I am today included a lot of long nights and early days. It was never easy but it was always worth it. I went from trying to find my strengths to walking in my purpose and the transition was seamless. I’ve always wanted to work with small businesses and help them grow and sustain in longevity. I literally looked up one day and I was living the life I’d been praying for.

The lessons I’ve learned include staying true to yourself, no matter how the crowd moves. Never lose faith. And faith without works is dead, so work harder! In the words of Eric Thomas, you’re already hurt, get a reward from it! Don’t quit! Being honest, being an entrepreneur has beat my ass! This here ain’t for the faint of heart! I’ve been robbed, experienced more deaths than should be allowed, dealt with traumas, and non-paying clients since starting this journey. One of the things that keeps me going are my client reviews. Reflecting on the impact that I’ve made lets me know this is what I’m supposed to be doing… at least for now!

I want the world to know that black girl magic isn’t just a catch phrase. We’re really miraculous. I’ve prayed. I’ve overcome. I’ve hustled. I’ve cried. I’ve experienced. I’ve inspired. I’ve lost. I’ve created. I’ve struggled. I’ve accomplished. I’ve grown. I’ve won. I’ve been the ultimate amount of risky! But it’s all a part of my story and it’s pushed me to be better for myself and with anyone I cross paths. Out of everything I’ve said, I’ve never given up! And I won’t! Know that!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Monday – Gocha’s Breakfast Bar is a must to start the day! But for dinner, Flip Burger is the cutest boutique burger spot ever with smoking milkshakes.

Tuesday – We’re looking to catch a vibe so Cru in Morrow! $2 Tuesdays for taco Tuesdays. Plus there’s Casamigos bottle specials and hookah… It’s the vibe!

Wednesday – Any day’s a good day to go to Copper Cove! Afterall, I opened it! It’s eclectic dining with an undeniable vibe.

Thursday – If I’m looking for something sweet, I’m going to My Fair Sweets! EVERYTHING she has is amazing! Tribeca for the dinner parties! The food is great, the environment is upscale, and the crowd is awesome.

Friday – The Trap Music Museum is a full blown experience! Plus they have a great happy hour! In the spirit of indulging in the culture, we can go to J.R. Crickets after we leave.

Saturday – Club South Beach on a Saturday was always a vibe! But if we’re not doing the club, Top Golf is my go-to for good fun! Or a selfie museum to make memories! There’s so many here now!

Sunday – Sunday Funday BRUNCH day! Boogalou is food and a party all in one! From the bottomless mimosas to the amazing food, it’s an all around great time!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Although I’ve done a lot on my own, my village has been filled with guidance and support! My little Vicky P. who pushed me in the rooms and hyped me up to fly. My mentor Jackie who pulled me out a seat at her table and showed me a different aspect of our world. I have to shout out my pull up at any time, down for whatever photographer, Jam! My friends who’ve been genuine and understanding throughout this growth process. Eric Thomas for keeping me going even when I wanted to quit and Gary Vee for constantly reminding me it’s not too late! I dedicate this shoutout to you!

Website: www.iamsheriep.com

Instagram: instagram.com/iamsheriep

Facebook: facebook.com/iamsheriep

Image Credits
Photos by We Just Livin’ Photographer JaMarius “JAM” Jelks