We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Perry and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Erika, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Far too often, I see so many entrepreneurs, and individuals confused and unfocused about their goals. Though they want to break free of that feeling, it can sometimes feel like they`re doomed to stay in their comfort zones of not reaching their goals. I personally know how that feels, and I have been that exact person. At times everything in my life seemed cluttered or not right, but with direction and balance, I changed the way I look at things and the things I looked at change.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up in poverty, in addition to a single parent home I was dealt a bad hand early in life. But I was determined to win, and to help others win as well. For some reason, I always felt that my life, and purpose was bigger than me so I knew life would be hard. I questioned everything, and demanded an answer. (So definitely, as a child I got in trouble for my mouth a lot). In such a big world, which as a kid I heard many say, “land of the free”. I didn’t understand why people were homeless, why my living environment was different from my mother`s coworkers, or why there was so much violence. As my brother, and I watched my mother come home from her second job; and, have to walk over a dead body to enter the house.
I knew this wasn`t all life had to offer, and I was going to be the one to show others a different view of life. Thankfully, I formed an extended family through sports which challenged my thought process, and helped me to become the leader that I am today. So, daily I tackle life with the mindset of “WE” have to win.
Through the challenges of growing up. I defeated the odds and obtained a Master`s in Psychology. became a Certified Life Coach, and Mental Health Facilitator with over 10 years in social service, and customer service experience. In addition, I have my own coaching/consulting business Perry`s Empowering Services LLC, and I founded Youth Talk United Nonprofit Organization.
Perry`s Empowering LLC is built upon the 3 Key P`s to Success. Purpose, Passion, and Persistence. With a mission to empower individuals through proper guidance and action so they may reach their full potential and achieve every desired goal!
Youth Talk United offers youth and young adults 10- 24 years of age a variety of supportive services designed to provide them with the life skills they need to successfully deal with issues they may encounter in their daily lives, while preparing them for a smooth transition into the real world. These services include counseling, academic support, life skills workshops, community service opportunities, and interpersonal skills development through team sports.
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.
Birmingham, Alabama is full of so much history. If you are visiting check out:
Birmingham Museum of Art – Take the entire family and set off on an interesting adventure through history together.
Red Mountain Park – Loads of fun and action awaits at this fantastic place.
University of Alabama-Birmingham – If you’re a fan of modern-day architecture and design, add this attraction to your must-see list.
Sloss Furnaces – If you’re planning to explore the area’s history through its landmarks, pencil this one in your must-see list.
16th Street Baptist Church – Stop for some quiet reflection and find out a few things about this site’s spiritual significance.
Train Watching Platform – Kick back and let the natural beauty here ease your soul.
Kelly Ingram Park – If you love hanging out in the garden, this attraction will delight your green thumb.
Lakeview – food, entertaining , and retail
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My first shoutout is to my amazing brother, friend, and co- host Coach Mike James. He has listened and encouraged me to face by fears on a daily basis. It`s important that you have someone in your corner that pushes you and have the same values of being a blessing to others. Second, I like to shoutout my clients, and my youth that have become family. You all push me more than you know. Lastly, my family. Keep praying and cheering me on.
Website: empoweringdreams.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspschology
Linkedin: http://ca.linkedin.com/in/linkedinerikaperry
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mzpsychology1
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Coach-Perry-107387455105159/
Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCOzjgtPy9aqhFs5QQ-gvTiQ