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Hidden Gems: Meet April Smith of The One Day Co.

Today we’d like to introduce you to April Smith.

Hi April, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into entrepreneurship didn’t begin with a grand plan—it began with a wake-up call.

When the pandemic hit, I had already been laid off twice before in my career. And as the world shut down, I found myself asking some tough, honest questions: What if this happens again? Am I truly financially and mentally prepared? For years, I believed my degrees, certifications, and corporate career would keep me safe. I had done everything “right.” But in that moment, I realized my future was still in the hands of someone else’s decision.

That’s when everything shifted.

I started thinking about how I could create more security and freedom for myself—how I could build a life that didn’t rely on one paycheck or one title. So I turned to what I knew best: project management. I began applying the same strategies I used with Fortune 500 clients—strategic planning, execution frameworks, and clear milestones—to my own life and goals.

That approach led me to invest in real estate. Then, I took a leap and became an angel investor in a restaurant. And eventually, it inspired me to create One Day—a brand focused on helping people stop waiting for “someday” and start making real progress, one day at a time.

What makes One Day unique is that I’m still living the journey. I didn’t walk away from my nine-to-five—I’m still working full-time while growing this business. And I think that’s important to say. Because so many people think it has to be all or nothing. It doesn’t. I’m proof that you can build the life you want while honoring where you are right now.

The One Day signature product, the Daily Execution Planner , was born from that mindset. It’s a tool rooted in action—designed to help people get clear on their goals, stay consistent, and build momentum towards the life they desire.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I wouldn’t trade the journey. One of the biggest challenges wasn’t just managing time or resources—it was shifting my mindset. I had to believe that I could do something different, even when I didn’t have a blueprint or anyone in my immediate circle who had taken the leap I was considering.

Most people around me were committed to traditional paths: steady jobs, safe choices, predictable lives. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, I felt called to build something that didn’t yet exist in my world. That required a whole new level of belief, discipline, and vision.

There were definitely moments of doubt—times I questioned whether I was doing too much, whether I should just focus on my nine-to-five, or whether people would even find value in what I was creating. But what I’ve learned is that clarity comes through action. Every time I pushed forward, I got stronger. Every small win helped me trust myself more.

This journey has taught me that doing something new often means going first—before the support, before the applause, and sometimes before the full vision is even clear. But that’s what growth looks like. And I’ve learned to stay committed by taking it one day at a time.

We’ve been impressed with The One Day Co., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At One Day, we help ambitious people get out of their heads and into action. Our entire brand is built on one simple but powerful belief: your big audacious goals aren’t impossible—they just need a plan, structure, and support.

We specialize in execution. Not just motivation or inspiration—but real, practical tools to help people achieve their goals—one day at a time. The Daily Execution Planner, helps people break down their goals, prioritize what matters most, and build consistency.

But what really sets One Day apart is that everything we offer is rooted in lived experience. I’m not just teaching theory—I’m a certified project manager who has built a career managing complex, high-stakes initiatives for Fortune 500 companies. And I’ve used those same strategies to pursue bold goals of my own—all while working a demanding nine-to-five.

We also offer accountability, personalized goal support, and the Goal Lab Incubator, our monthly membership program where people get the systems, coaching, and strategy they need to stay on track. What sets us apart is how personal and structured it is. We don’t just cheer you on—we help you map out the “how,” hold you to it, and support you through it.

What I’m most proud of is the impact. People aren’t just setting goals—they’re launching businesses, getting out of debt, prioritizing their wellness, and rebuilding belief in themselves.

I created One Day because I needed it. And now I get to help other people stop waiting for the right time and start building the life they want—starting today.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Looking back, it’s no surprise I ended up here.

My parents always tells the story of how, as a baby, they’d put me in my crib for a nap—and somehow, I’d find a way to climb out. Every time. It’s funny now, but I think it’s a perfect metaphor for who I’ve always been: someone who doesn’t just accept the way things are—I question them. I move. I make my own way.

Growing up, I was always active—I started playing sports in the fifth grade, and without even realizing it, I kept stepping into leadership roles. Whether it was basketball or cross-country, I’d often end up as team captain, not because I asked, but because I naturally took responsibility and brought people together toward a shared goal.
That’s still who I am. I lead with intention. I care about people. And I’m passionate about helping others win. These days, it’s not about winning a game—it’s about helping people hit their goals and feel proud of what they’re building.

So when I look at One Day and everything it represents, I know it’s aligned with who I’ve always been—someone who doesn’t wait, but moves with purpose, one day at a time.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Michelle Dokes:
https://www.instagram.com/michelledokesphotography/

Ty Pleas:
https://www.instagram.com/ty_pleas/

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