Today we’d like to introduce you to Athenia Rodney
Athenia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey started with a deep-rooted passion for community, culture, and creating meaningful experiences. As a young woman in New York City, I was always drawn to bringing people together and finding ways to uplift those around me. That passion led me to found Juneteenth NYC, which has grown into the largest Juneteenth celebration in the state—an event that not only honors culture and history but also creates space for Black-owned businesses and families to thrive.
But behind the scenes, I found myself doing everything. From logistics to vendor management, marketing to community outreach—I was burning out trying to hold it all together. That’s when I realized I needed systems. I started exploring tools, automation platforms, and team structures that could help me scale without losing the spirit of what I do.
That led to the creation of AR Business Expansion, a consulting and service-based company that helps entrepreneurs and small business owners streamline operations, automate processes, and grow with strategy—not stress. I now coach and support other business owners, particularly creatives and purpose-driven leaders, in building systems that free up their time and allow them to focus on what they truly love.
It’s been a powerful journey—going from overwhelmed and overworked to empowered and equipped. And now, my mission is to help others experience that same shift, so they can grow their businesses and enjoy their lives.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road—but a meaningful one. Like many entrepreneurs, I started with a vision and passion, but not always with the systems or resources in place to support the scale of what I was building.
One of my biggest struggles was wearing too many hats. As the founder of Juneteenth NYC and several business ventures, I found myself constantly stretched thin—doing admin work, planning events, managing vendors, handling social media, and trying to be present for my family, including raising a child with special needs. It was rewarding but overwhelming. I didn’t always have the support or structure to make things sustainable.
Another challenge was learning how to see the value in what I do and confidently charge for it. As a service-driven person, I often gave more than I charged for—especially when working in community spaces. I had to work through a mindset shift around worth, pricing, and profit.
Finally, building while balancing motherhood was its own journey. There were days when I felt like I had to choose between showing up fully for my kids or for my business. That’s when I knew I needed to create systems—not just to grow my business, but to protect my peace and time.
Those challenges are exactly what inspired AR Business Expansion. I learned how to build sustainable workflows, automate, and delegate—not just for myself, but now for others walking the same path. So no, it hasn’t been easy—but every hard-earned lesson became part of my blueprint for helping others thrive.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about AR Business Expansion?
At AR Business Expansion, we help purpose-driven entrepreneurs and small business owners stop drowning in day-to-day operations and start building businesses that run with them—not on them.
We specialize in streamlining systems, automating workflows, and providing virtual business support so that our clients can scale efficiently while reclaiming their time and energy. From CRM setup and email marketing automation to virtual assistant services and social media management—we provide the back-end strategy and structure that allows visionaries to actually live out their vision.
What sets us apart is that we’re not just another business consultant or tech service—we’re a partner in your expansion. We blend heart and hustle. I’ve walked the same road, building multiple businesses while raising a family and running major cultural events like Juneteenth NYC. I understand firsthand the importance of systems that don’t just support your business—but protect your peace, your purpose, and your presence at home and in your community.
I’m most proud of how our brand centers around authenticity, legacy, and transformation. We care deeply about making our clients feel seen and supported—not just as business owners, but as full humans with big dreams and busy lives.
For anyone reading, I want you to know that your business can grow without burning you out. You can have systems that work even when you take a break. You can expand your impact and still make time for family, rest, and joy.
If you’re ready to reclaim your time, streamline your operations, and grow with intention—AR Business Expansion is here to walk that journey with you.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happiest is seeing people walk fully in their purpose—especially when they realize they don’t have to do it all on their own. I love helping entrepreneurs and leaders feel less overwhelmed and more empowered. Watching someone take control of their time, create systems that support their growth, and begin to truly thrive—that lights me up.
On a personal note, spending time with my husband, Kendall Rodney, and our children brings me the greatest joy. Whether we’re enjoying a quiet moment at home, supporting each other’s dreams, or just laughing together—it reminds me of what truly matters.
I also find peace and strength in my faith. Going to church and thanking God daily for another chance at life keeps me grounded and grateful. My faith has carried me through challenges and opened doors I never expected. Every day I wake up with purpose is a blessing, and I never take that for granted.
At the core, happiness for me is about connection—connection to God, to my family, and to the people I’m called to serve.
Pricing:
- Website Design Packages 5-Page Website: $1,500 10-Page Website with CRM Integration & Automation: $2,500 – $4,000
- CRM & Automation Setup (AR Business Platform)Starter Setup: $1,200 (includes custom funnel, automation, CRM build-out) Full-Service Setup + Strategy Session: $2,500
- 1-on-1 Business Coaching $150/session (1-hour session) $497/month (includes 4 sessions + email/text support between calls)
- Ongoing platform access: $97/month – $297/month based on level of access and features
- Social Media Management Packages Basic Package: $350/month (8 posts/month + captions + scheduling) Growth Package: $750/month (12–16 posts/month + engagement + analytics + 1 reel/week) Premium Package: $1,200/month (Full content strategy, 4 reels, custom graphics, engagement, and reporting)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atheniarodney.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachatheniarodney/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachAtheniaRodney
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/athenia-rodney-7563b97/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@juneteenthnewyorkcity
- Other: https://www.atheniarodney.com/
Image Credits
Madison Rodney Productions and Photos
