Nice to meet you as well, I've heard such wonderful things about you and your talents. You know what, as a futurist, and Woman Leader in Tech., knowing what is likely coming down the pike in business as my business sense is almost like a sixth-sense to me. True Success Coaching was born out of pure necessity just prior to Covid-19, whereas companies and their leaders both large and small, were quite hesitant to go fully-digital.Luckily, I suggested back in November of last year to the bulk of my clients, that they make the transition to digital while the getting was good. I guess it was my sixth-sense kicking in. When Covid-19 hit, many of the businesses I worked with not only remained relevant, they also had already made the transition to digital, just in time too. So they were alright for the most part. Yet in reality, I have always been the technology, military and business go-to person. While on active duty in the US Navy also running exercises with the US Marines with Fleet Marine Force Hospital Corpsman groups, while I was Aviation Medicine. I was also a civil servant within the United States Government, and in both the private and public sectors as well. I was a government contractor with Northrop Grumman, a major defense corporation and learned so much, which allows me to assist countless companies strategically, today.
Yet even before the pandemic, many companies sought out seasoned professionals like myself and others. With us being Chief Information Officers and marketing strategists with a vast network and business expertise, we were positioned quite strategically, to assist them with everything from translating technology to business leaders to finding viable technological solutions to everyday business problems and assisting them with pivots in business, to ensure a likely survival if their previous business model, product, or both are no longer relevant. In fact, I was contacted by Suyati Corporation out of India whereas they also have offices in the United States, Germany, and a few other countries. I groomed the possibility of working with the entity and met with Ashutosh Karandikar and Karthic Ravindranath, since they were considering me, a woman for the position which is a wonderful milestone for a company in India, I was impressed with them reaching out to me. The idea was to have me gain contacts and translate business needs to technological solutions.
As a former US Navy "Doc", you've implemented respectable protocol to ensure cyber and offline emergencies were addressed and resolved in a timely manner. Your leadership as an Information Systems Security Officer directed Navy professionals to engage in emergency drills for natural disasters including viruses. Lessons were learned from the SARS virus. What recommendation would you provide to those (government agencies and civilians) attempting to refine their Coronavirus response in the present?
You know what? That is a great question and it couldn’t have been any timelier. While on active duty in the US Navy working in the triage and acute care clinic, I was the medical person everyone loved to hate since I believed in drills, and not of the simulated variety. What I mean by that is that I always ensured that any emergency drill team I was assigned to, I made sure our drills were as real as possible, within reason. Our last drill was an Ebola drill. We made the calls as the parties were notified of the date and time of the planned drill. We did well, same as we did for an airplane crash emergency which actually happened a month later, of course we did very well. The Admiral and his wife were quite pleased with both the response and their care. The same went for cyber issues while on active duty. Yet since it was a collateral duty which somehow consumed most of my time after my medical duties were complete for the day, I relied on the Information Systems Security Manager for the big cyber issues. He is the one I learned the tricks and nuances of the trade from. He wanted to know I was competent before sending me on trips to cyber security conferences and such in the DC area predominantly. On that note, my advice is to “Pivot in your business, test and fail quickly to find a new niche or two. It’s best to complete the pivot, while the pivoting is good.” “It’s almost as if the economy, business, and countless industries are encountering another reset. Best to fail and learn quickly, in order to benefit from your pivot(s).”
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are adjusting to their new normal. How do you define innovation?
Innovation technologically or any other way post-Covid-19 may be quite simply described as, “Preventive or deliberate and active adaptation, or implementation of something new or by adjusting something already in place, by way of implementing new, or improved action(s), process(es), or product(s) that is/are vital to the survival of an entity, person, or group; as they may be known or not known for - if the pivot is drastic.”
A good example of this would be Starbucks. As opposed to going out of business, they might pivot to coffee sales only, or lease out their brand to countless coffee shops around the world to remain relevant in their field, and still make billions of dollars, off of a brand they built ages ago without franchising a single shop. Another way innovation may be defined is; “Improvising and improving in just about any area, by implementing a new method, product, model, or concept as well as or possibly improving upon those already existing, in order to sustain or prepare for in advance, that which may already be or in the foreseeable future may clearly become, obsolete.”
As a business coach and consultant, how can these business owners rely on innovation to sustain their organizations during these dynamic times when business forecasting can be unpredictable and perhaps even intimidating?
Excellent question. In a nutshell, since none of us are psychic to the point of predicting all the perfect businesses to thrive during the post-Covid era – all we can do is try, try, try again, fail and learn quickly. Then to do it all again, faster and faster – until ultimately finding new and viable niche(s). I have a funny story to tell you. I did well upon coming to the South in transportation. Yet when I first arrived, I tried seeking businesses that required little to no maintenance. Therefore, I immediately asked about a drive-in theater. I was laughed at and told no, there weren’t any and that the South was no longer a backward one horse and buggy town. I laughed with the gentleman but continued my search and found one in Athens, Alabama that wasn’t bad at all. There then, it was $25K at the time if I’m not mistaken. Imagine its worth now, 10 years later during Covid-19. Easy to maintain, easy to open, work, and close. I’m sure the person who laughed at me back then is thinking right about now, that I was onto something, wouldn’t you agree?
My point is this, you have to first follow your own gut as a business owner, then realize you need a team, check feasibility and your cake and get a plan to implement so you know your steps before you take them, do your research, speak with those who already know the industry if not your specific niche, yes – find the major hitter and get their advice, get your cake up, and assemble your dream team and a few others as backup including a board as well as a mentor or two if you’re serious, and dive right in. It’s the only way to learn what will work. Right now, some of the most unlikely businesses are thriving right now. Everything from food delivery to restaurants and grocery stores. Now the airline industry is a toss up right now but I’m still hanging in there with them, Tesla as well although I have a friend who knows the leaders of Tesla’s competitor. I’m being groomed to switch over to the other side. Who knows, only the future can tell.
When starting off as an entrepreneur, what were your top two challenges that you needed to overcome?
The first hurdle was Cake, the fact that I had none, LOL. And when I say cake, of course I mean money. You know, cheddar, cheese, etc. The second was fear. I had to overcome fear and doubt, especially considering the people I allowed myself to be surrounded with back then.
What did it teach you about yourself?
I just love your questions. And I hope someone can truly benefit from our dialogue. Let’s just say, I will remain as real as possible, because it’s the only way my responses can really help. We as people doubt a bit more than we’d like to believe we do. I suggest, because I saw this in myself, entrepreneurs might want to be sure they have a good support network before taking on major challenges in life, business, career, education, or otherwise. Quite simply put, fear can be debilitating if you do not have the tools to overcome it. Imagine doubters in your ear 24/7. My secret was to jack into my headphones or earbuds to drown out the voices of doubt. And I don’t mean just the people that were around me back then. Or at least not them alone. I meant to drown out my own voice in my own head telling me I can’t do it, or that I’m wasting my time and should get a ‘real’ job, amplifying what I heard nearly every day, several times a day. All the greats went through that, but they learned how to believe in themselves, to have faith, keep at it, and they eventually achieved it. That brings to mind a book I’m working on called “Divine Gifts Theory”, where I challenge Gladwell’s 1800 Hour Rule. I found it took me sometimes twice that or in some instances, three times the typical 1800 hours of beating on my craft, to see any of the fruit of my labor. Then I learned it wasn’t just me, that it was happening all over the world. Maybe during our next interview, I will share those details, once they have manifested and materialized.
Olivia, you are an advocate of more women joining the ranks of power. Women have made respectable progress over the past three decades. How can more women take advantage of the present reality to embrace power and contribute to a better world?
You know with my having predicted as far back as March of this year, that Biden would surely choose a woman and has apparently now chosen Kamala Harris as his running mate, now that she’s the nominee - long after Elizabeth Warren having dropped out of the race, a time as recent as March when I was being laughed at, for merely the title of my book with most men asking me if I thought it
a bit ambitious to choose such a title, it’s amazing that
Pamelya Herndon , CEO of the KWH Law Center in Albuquerque New Mexico, just had this conversation while discussing the 100 Years Celebration - Centennial Online Event Honoring Women’s Right to Vote. We discussed City Councilors Diane Gibson, and others, along with Trudy Jones regarding Social Justice and Change. My book was featured in that its focus is on the Future of Women 2020 and Beyond. We invited community members to tune into the 100 Years Virtual Celebration Honoring Women’s Right to Vote on Wednesday, August 26th, where the event aired live on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on GOV TV – Comcast channel 16, I still have the
YouTube and
Facebook link for those interested in taking a peek.
Yet to answer your question more directly, women can only take advantage of the present toward embracing power if we stick together! In short, more women supporting women, as opposed to competing for the attention of men and positions we should all occupy, in just as great an abundance as men. AKA’s, and Delta’s have this already figured out. Zeta’s are more my speed although I’m already a member of Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity as a Law Student. I personally prefer co-ed fraternities and am okay with that. However, I do see the importance of sororities. After all, it’s sister supporting sister.
I guess I sort of called women out there, yet I was simply making my point that women simply do not stick together. Yet in reality, I get it. Many women just weren’t finding Warren very likable and some called her selfish, not seeming as if she would be a woman to back up other women if it came down to that. I reference a study listed in a New York Post article Bias Persists for Women of Science, a
Study Finds that 9 out of 10 people are biased against women. Yes, of course that means both men and women. We have to steer clear of this in order to find our center of power.
I remain neutral in that I may not like her, yet I have always believed that a woman that’s liked by too many people in politics, may be attempting to appease every one as opposed to sticking to her guns and making things happen for her constituents and helping other women, as well as those in need, if you know what I mean. Not to be influenced by those in a position to manipulate to support their own agenda, at the expense of the people, at the hands of likable, but manipulable politicians. I enjoyed that interview since they asked if I believed it was time for women to lead. It was also referenced that while Amy Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren had already dropped out of the Presidential race, if I believed we were still beginning to see a shift to women in positions of power? I responded the same way as I did back in February, it is most definitely our time!
You are a priceless source to those seeking counsel, coaching and companionship. Who are the people who uplift you on days when you're seeking clarity with personal and professional matters?
Outside of my higher power which is on call 24/7/365, I have a muse that helps me with all creative tasks, either in spirit or in person. This is a must in my life in order to get major things done. It’s one of the main staples in my support network for creative or massive endeavors.
Where does your strength emanate from?
My strength comes from fostering a strong belief in myself that few may possess if they do not truly believe in a higher power. I realize that where I may drop off as well as others, I can pick back up due to my faith in a higher power. I know that where I may not be able to do something on my own, through my higher power, I am unstoppable! I must also give credit to life experience and the decades I wasted helping others to greatness. From politicians to finances and spouses in their businesses and campaigns to spiritual endeavors, rarely receiving what was promised and in some instances, what was agreed to, in writing. I was used to simply walking away but noticed my life changed drastically toward the better, when I finally began standing up for myself. Of course, this always came with a fight. I may not have always won, yet have won most. I kind of feel like I was temporarily transported to a fight club scene there for a moment considering how bad I have been beaten up in business before lol. I used to say it’s not always about winning, and that for me it’s more so about doing my best and not backing down, depending on the fight, and whether it's winnable or not. Now I say something similar, by adding that I will fight if I believe what I aim to gain is worth the fight!
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| Credit: Divorce Superpowers for Women |
You've also authored Divorce Superpowers for Women, a book for women to learn how to protect themselves through a divorce. What events inspired you to compose a book which serves as a valuable guide for those transitioning out of their relationships? Writing on such a topic can stir all sorts of emotions. How would you describe your writing experience?
Thanks so much for keeping it real. Yes, it was remembering my divorce of ages ago where I did not do what I should have in being just as fierce as the system that was in place at the time, in realizing just how hard I’ve had to work to get anywhere near the level of wealth I had then. Yet then again, you’re absolutely right - Emotions says it all LOL. However, when I write I do so from a different perspective. I think of women that have either been through a divorce and weren’t prepared for it, or did not fair, as well as their ex-husbands did, after the divorce. You know what I mean?
Left to raise their kids alone after they both committed to it, while the ex runs off usually with a mistress, wining and dining her while we sit at home doing all the work, with barely a few minutes in the bathroom throughout the day for running a smooth household looking out for the kids at every turn. While we clearly love it, it seems unfair that we cannot take a quick vacation or get wined and dined like the mistress, after all we gave and did for the household as well as the (most ungrateful) previous hubby. So sure, it was tough writing the initial outline for the book. I wanted to find a way to be clear in communicating that the book was not intended to serve as a guide by any means.
It’s more so a book offering moral support for those going through it, and for those who think they may have to or are not sure, and how they may protect themselves in a practical sense. Simple concepts such as a “separate account he or she does not know about.” (Credit to the originator of that phrase). It’s tough yet now I am as resilient as they come and can understand just about any angle a woman may be coming from. That being said, we have a support group we are growing as well, to offer support for those currently going through it or that are in recovery. There are many pointers and suggestions in the book that can surely help. The kicker is, I also plan to write a book for men in a similar fashion. This is the true essence of equality, in that there are some women out there learning to navigate the game better than men, but that is going overboard. Or rather, those women are reckless, and families are also suffering because of it, and last time I checked, two wrongs still did not make a right.
What would your guidance be for individuals that are hesitant to claim their second chance at nurturing personal relationships?
For some, it may even be a third, a fourth, a fifth, or even a sixth chance. I say go for it, keeping in mind lessons learned as to not repeat them. We all need companionship to some degree and should always desire to foster personal relationships. It’s a part of life, and if left out can make for an odd stay on this planet.
It takes vulnerability and a pinch of faith to welcome new people into our personal time and space. What is your philosophy on relationships in general?
I find that personal relationships can have a different dynamic based upon the parties involved as well as the location, outside influences, finances, education, and so many other factors. My philosophy is to keep your relationship to yourself for a spell at the onset, to give it a test-drive on a trial basis in the beginning. Such times shall never come again in any given relationship, so make good use of the time. That way if only a close friend or two know it’s happening, if it doesn’t work out or last, no big deal. In my opinion, it seems that outside influences can dampen the time dedicated to nurturing a new personal relationship, to a degree where it can stand on its own in a crowd, among friends, family, and even co-workers. The boundaries you set should be well adjusted to your comfort level, not theirs. And your boundaries should be clearly communicated, in the beginning. This is a great start, as the people involved get to know one another. As for an overall view of relationships assuming they are established and not brand new, I believe a good relationship is like water or air, we need it! Or it’s akin to the air we breathe, as was said to me in a previous relationship. When you meet that special someone, it can be so beautiful and is something we should all strive for. Yet in reality, it should also be seen as a partnership whereas one has the others’ back, especially when times get tough. Relationships take work and will not always be easy. I have the philosophy that a woman should always seek her equal at best. I believe it will save the couple so much heartache. Anything less that one’s equal would be akin to walking up hill, backward. Find him (or her), and life will surely feel more complete, and can provide an environment filled with support, understanding, freedom, to grow and fly, to soar above the clouds without feeling guilty or overly ambitious.Having one’s equal means to be of kindred spirit, not just finances. Even temperaments are also a great idea. These days, someone you can trust, truly trust - is also key.
What is the toughest decision you've had to make in your professional career and why?
The toughest decision I’ve had to make in my professional career wasn’t actually related to operations or processes. I had to decide if I wanted to remain on board when a partner demanded sitting in to administer contracts, yet failed to tell me they could not handle it and had lost all of them one by one. I practically stayed up day and night for months to turn the company around while my partner slept overnight. One of us had to be on our toes, and since I was the Chief Technology Officer, Contract Recruiter, HR person, Website Developer given that we could not afford contractors – it was a tough decision to leave after contracts had lapsed due to my partners negligence.
How did you go about executing that decision?
I slept on it and knew upon awakening I needed to cut my losses and move on. I simply put things in place and made it happen. The company went down when I left, yet I did what I had to do with my interests in the company and moved on. If you remember my reference to doing so much for others and leaving with a deficit or with the very short end of the stick, it’s themes like these that caused me to write the Divorce Superpowers book. I decided that if I could save other women from what I encountered time and time again, that the book would be worth the labor, albeit, a labor of love, care, and concern for others, left at a grave disadvantage.
Mental wellness is a state of mind. How do you practice mental and emotional wellness in your life?
That’s a wonderful question, I meditate and pray. I make sure I include tons of visualization. It works for me with action and execution of plans I set in place of course.
How can others start taking better care of their mind and body?
In such times as these during the Covid-19 pandemic, with all the uncertainty and chaos even still today, relaxation and keeping on top of important tasks will help tons. Breathing exercises, stretching, and just a bit of quiet time. During an interview on the
Tim Ridley Show out of Tennessee featured on SiriusXM Radio Channel 146, I remember Tim asking me about Covid-19 and how it’s affecting me at home and what advice might I have for moms, it was near Mother’s day this year. I responded with a similar response in that sometime, we can only grab a bathroom break during the day. So I suggested nap time for the kids everyday so that mom can get a break too! Also, if having an older child that can watch the younger siblings, a schedule to allow this is also a plus. Yet in general, earbuds were safe, nice relaxing music, and having a point in time throughout the home where the news should be simply turned off altogether for at least an hour or two. It’s great to remain aware of current events and breaking news in such crazy times by way of the news, yet it’s not okay to become inundated – not for any member of the family. Nik Rajkovic, a reporter at KTRH Houston later asked me to share some ideas for Mother’s Day, during the pandemic, a good snapshot of just how chaotic this year has been, with not being able to hug an elder family member, especially mothers on Mother’s day. Yet this too shall pass. Hopefully next Mother’s Day will be a bit closer to normal, as we remember it.
Please share with audiences how they can support your work.
Gladly, and what a great interview too. Well, many know I’m a business consultant where many connect with me through my success coaching website. Listeners and viewers in general may feel free to support my work by visiting my LinkedIn page and connecting with me, to stay on top of what moves I will be making next that will help the masses, by sharing of my life’s successes, yet also some of my greatest lessons learned in life, business, and relationships.
