Conversations with Regina Reese

Today we’d like to introduce you to Regina Reese.

Regina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began knowing the sacrifices my mother made and how she worked hard to make ends meet. Growing up, I was a bright student with a natural inclination toward service. Despite my academic achievements, I struggled with confidence and self-esteem. However, my vibrant personality shone through, and I never met a stranger. I enjoyed connecting with people, making friends easily, and leaving a positive impact wherever I went.

After completing high school with honors, I pursued a degree in customer service, driven by my passion for helping others. I dedicated myself to community service, working with various non-profit organizations. However, as I immersed myself in the world of service, I realized that my heart also yearned for financial stability and independence.

At the age of 40, I stumbled upon the world of entrepreneurship. It was a revelation that sparked a new flame within me. I saw the potential to combine my love for people with the opportunity to create a business that could make a meaningful impact. However, my journey was not without challenges. I faced self-doubt and hesitations about venturing into the unknown. This was the turning point in my life.

I decided to embark on a personal development journey. I attended workshops, read self-help books, and surrounded myself with mentors who encouraged me to break free from my self-imposed limitations. Through this process, I not only gained confidence but also learned to love myself unconditionally.

With newfound self-assurance, I prioritized my mental health and self-care. Balancing a full-time job, being a dedicated mother to my 7-year-old son, and pursuing a degree in Accounting required resilience and time management. My commitment to my dreams and responsibilities fueled my drive.

I am continuing my entrepreneurial journey by launching a consulting business that is focused on helping individuals and small businesses navigate financial challenges. I leveraged my customer service background to offer not just financial advice but also emotional support to my clients. My ability to connect with people on a personal level became a cornerstone of my success.

As I continued to grow my businesses, I also excelled in my accounting studies. The combination of real-world experience and academic knowledge made me a force to be reckoned with in the financial realm. My story became an inspiration for others, showcasing that it’s never too late to pursue your passion and reinvent yourself.

Today, at 42, I have successfully merged my love for service, people, and financial acumen. I continue to thrive as an entrepreneur, providing valuable insights to my clients, all while maintaining a fulfilling family life. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-love, personal development, and the pursuit of one’s true calling, and with God, we can do anything!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As I ventured into entrepreneurship with little prior knowledge, support, or funding, I encountered a myriad of challenges that tested my resilience and determination. Initially unfamiliar with the intricacies of running a business, I faced a steep learning curve. Navigating through the complexities of legal requirements, financial management, and market research proved to be daunting tasks. The lack of a robust support network further compounded the challenges. I had to rely on my resourcefulness and problem-solving skills. Limited funding posed a constant hurdle, restricting the scale of operations and marketing efforts. Despite these obstacles, my unwavering commitment, coupled with my newfound confidence and self-love, empowered her to overcome each challenge, paving the way for my success in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently a Senior Operations Manager for the Atlanta Housing Authority, based in Atlanta, GA. We facilitate community redevelopment through neighborhoods, people, and housing. I currently support the Choice Atlanta Neighborhoods Team. I have been employed with the housing authority for 11 years. This position allows me to work in all areas that I enjoy: service, real estate, and operations. As a senior operations administrator, I maintain a pivotal role in overseeing and optimizing the day-to-day functions of a department. Drawing on my extensive experience and expertise, I manage and streamline operational processes to enhance efficiency and productivity. I collaborate with various departments to ensure seamless coordination and communication, playing a key role in implementing strategic initiatives. My responsibilities may include resource allocation, budget management, and performance analysis to drive continuous improvement. As a seasoned professional, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, contributing to the overall success and smooth operation of the department and the company. My role demands a combination of leadership, organizational acumen, and a keen eye for detail, making me an integral part of the senior management team.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
This entrepreneurial journey has been a profound learning experience, emphasizing the importance of investing in both myself and my businesses. Recognizing that personal development is a cornerstone of success, I have learned the value of self-investment through workshops, mentorship, and a commitment to mental health and self-care. Continued learning has been a guiding principle, acknowledging that the business landscape evolves and staying informed is essential for adaptability. Trusting myself emerged as a vital lesson, enabling me to overcome self-doubt and make confident decisions. Patience with myself became a virtue as I embraced the understanding that success is a process and growth takes time. In the intricate dance of entrepreneurship, my journey highlights these lessons as pillars that not only fortified my path but also became invaluable principles for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the dynamic world of business.

Contact Info:

• Website: realqueenroyalty.com
• Instagram: @realqueenroyalty @queenchocolatatte
• Facebook: Regina Reese @reginareese