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OWN YOUR BRAND SHOW with Victoria Odekomaya
Welcome to the OWN YOUR BRAND SHOW where you'll learn how to own and grow your brand and market your business. Every week I interview entrepreneurs and/or share branding, marketing and business tips to grow your influence, build a profitable business and make an impact.
Victoria Odekomaya is an award winning photographer, brand & marketing strategist with over a decade of experience. She is passionate about helping women fulfill their dreams and purpose effortlessly.
Click to be featured, advertise on the show or connect with Victoria: https://mtr.bio/limstudios
OWN YOUR BRAND SHOW with Victoria Odekomaya
From Vision to Impact: Nakeisha Washington's STEMventures and Top Branding & Business Tips
Ever wondered how a simple blog can transform into a full-scale educational enterprise? Join us as we chat with Nakeisha Washington, the inspiring founder of Nylanova STEMversity, who has done just that. Nakeisha gives us a peek behind the curtain of her journey—winning pitch contests, speaking at prestigious events like EEAI, and creating Nylanova, a captivating science superhero aimed at sparking young minds. Discover how Nakeisha’s initiative is making waves in STEM education, fostering critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among children.
Nakeisha dives into the evolution of Nyla Denay Enterprises and its branches, from humble beginnings as a blog to providing international STEM-focused travel experiences. We dig into some of the challenges she faced, especially in the wake of fluctuating post-COVID funding, and how she navigated financial management and adaptability. Learn about the importance of exposing students to STEM careers and the vital role of collaboration with educational and community institutions to enrich young learners’ experiences.
But that’s not all. We also explore the art of building an authentic and consistent brand, leveraging tools like ChatGPT for content creation, and the power of capturing raw, genuine moments. Nakeisha shares her insights on expanding a single brand into multiple revenue streams without losing focus, the significance of mentorship, and the necessity of building a supportive team. Plus, get inspired by stories of making a positive community impact through early affirmations and proactive engagement. Tune in to uncover actionable strategies for growing your brand and making a lasting difference.
Learn more about Nakeisha and Nylanova at:
@Nylanovastem or https://www.nylanovastem.com
//ABOUT
Victoria Odekomaya is a Nigerian American and former drug research scientist turned brand and marketing expert. Through her Creative Agency, LiMStudios, she specializes in brand photography, video creation, and strategic marketing. Victoria's mission is to empower female entrepreneurs to be SEEN, KNOWN, and HEARD, enhancing their visual presence and attracting their ideal customers to build a BANKABLE PERSONAL BRAND. Victoria's scientific background has honed her analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills, which she integrates into her branding strategies. Her 23-year journey to U.S. citizenship reflects the perseverance female entrepreneurs need to overcome challenges in branding and marketing. This fuels her dedication to empower women to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
In 2022, Victoria launched the BOSS LADIES CAMPAIGN, giving participants a celebrity photoshoot experience to enhance their confidence and brand visibility. The campaign promotes these women through features in BOSS LADIES magazine, appearances on Victoria's 'OWN YOUR BRAND SHOW', and recognition at the BOSS LADIES GALA. The gala not only celebrates women but also raises funds for local non-profits, so far raising $19,000+ for Dove Recovery House for Women and PINK RIBBON CONNECTION.
For sponsorship/business inquiries, visit https://mtr.bio/limstudios or email hello@thelimstudios.com.
The quality of the light looks good. So, gosh, I've been so busy doing all that. I'm like, let me just look through my notes, because I had notes, okay, okay.
Speaker 2:I love. When I saw the content, like your form, I was like, oh my God, I can't wait. Like that gets me so excited and I really want us to make it kind of like how we were talking the other day just casual. Right right, right, and you just drop in knowledge, like you always do. I be trying.
Speaker 3:Yeah God, it just be coming out. I'm like oh okay, that sounded good.
Speaker 2:Look, that's exactly what I would, because it helps people. I know you helped me so much that day so, please, please, please, keep, I sure will.
Speaker 1:You want to find something is when you don't find it Okay. Finally, projects, podcasts, episodes Okay.
Speaker 2:So what is one of the things that you really want us to talk about like that?
Speaker 3:we don't miss it don't matter um, I just was sending some stuff.
Speaker 2:I was like no, I really liked it. Like I'm pulling it up again so I can refresh my memory, but I I'm also thinking of the way I want to introduce you to and I also I think I put your name down for something. I feel that I, someone sent me this interview they have like a website and then they asked me to do to fill out the form, so that way they can, you know, like put it on their website or their blog or whatever, okay, so they told me to refer two people at the end and you were one of the people. Thank you, all right, so you won first place in the pitch contest. Um, you are in the cohort for Black Legacy and Leadership, is that how that is?
Speaker 1:Yeah, Spring cohort in the Black Expo Business Training. Oh my God, that's a mouthful. Speaker at EEAI. Let's see here I got to just.
Speaker 2:This is good.
Speaker 3:I want to mention all of it, but I want to mention it in a way that is similar Right is similar right and you don't have to you know you can dibble and dabble.
Speaker 1:Yeah, I guess you're right.
Speaker 2:Let me just leave this up here so some of the questions I'm probably gonna ask you be like just helping me understand like take workers to how you got in all of this, how you found this opportunity. Okay. I got you. I feel like a lot of business owners right. There's a lot of opportunities out there, but we clearly don't take advantage of it and even today, you told me about something.
Speaker 1:You were like you better get in that butt.
Speaker 2:You know, butt latin. So I just I want to acknowledge all the work that you're doing as well as you help us, just pour into us. You know, just like, show us the way, if you will. You know what I mean. Like, how are you getting all these opportunities? How are you, you know. Okay, now this one. Yeah, this camera is our main camera. Oh, this one here no, not the one on the thing yeah, this one, just this camera is our main camera, oh this one here, no, not the one on the thing.
Speaker 3:Yeah, this one here, Just closer to you. Okay, yeah.
Speaker 2:So I mean, you and I were just talking, just kind of like talk to each other, but if you were to look at the camera, it would be that one. Okay, I'm going to mess this intro up, so that's why I like the recorded version of it. Right, hi, and welcome to another episode of the Own your Brand Show. Look, today I am super excited to have the one and only Nakesha Washington here with me. Look, this woman, she's a boss lady and she has been doing incredible things lately to build our brand. I've known her for a couple of years now and she's poured into me so well, so much so, that I'm like, anytime I'm in her presence, I feel inspired. So today I wanted to just kind of listen in and get some ideas of how you can continue to build your brand as well.
Speaker 2:So, for those that don't know who Nakisha is, she is the owner and founder of Nainalova STEMversity. She is an educator. She takes kids wanting to learn about STEM around the whole country, the whole world, basically because they've just finished a trip around. You know, you went to Italy, you went to London and we'll talk a little bit about that, but also here locally in Indiana, like she's won the first place in pitch contest. She's speaking for EAI and she's doing a lot of incredible things and I'm like, okay, lady, how are you getting all these opportunities, how are you doing all of these things and how is it impacting your brand and your business? And today, that's what we're going to be breaking down, so come along with us.
Speaker 3:Yeah, how are you doing, my friend, I'm doing great friend.
Speaker 2:Thank you for having me absolutely look I, I want to have you for my own selfish reasons, because take me, take me. I'm like I need to learn and hear from you how you've been doing all of these things, because it's so admirable. So you know, just tell us a little bit about Nylanova to start with.
Speaker 3:So Nylanova Stemversity is well. First of all, nylanova is our science superhero. She goes around and encourage boys and girls to love STEM, and so those that don't know that science, technology, engineering and math, yes, and so from there, we developed Nile and Nova STEMversity, which is like the university where we teach pre-K through fourth graders, STEM skills, problem-solving skills, critical thinking skills, so they can be successful in school and beyond Right and so from there, it's just been a joy. We work with families now as well, and we're doing a lot of community engagement activities as well. That's amazing, thank you.
Speaker 2:And I know I said earlier on that you just took the kids around the world.
Speaker 3:Yes what I'm not quite around the world yet.
Speaker 2:Well, look, he comes around the world.
Speaker 3:Yes, yes, so we took our first international STEM venture last summer to London and Paris, and it was just amazing. It's kids that really never got out of their neighborhood, but they were able to see the world, and so that's our goal each year to do an international trip. So we are looking for sponsors always. So if you want to sponsor a child, you know, or donate to their being able to go and do this, but it has such a great impact on them, their families and the community.
Speaker 2:And some of these kids have never been outside of their neighborhood, let alone the country.
Speaker 3:Exactly so. They had to get passports, they went through that whole services and stuff and then they learned how to go through customs and all of that and these are things that some people take for granted because I'm an avid traveler. But I was like it's not fair for me to experience this and not take those that are enrolled in stemversity, so absolutely and I know that even on that trip you had organized some activities that are stem related.
Speaker 3:Oh yeah, it's definitely stem related. So we definitely got to sightsee and see everything. But then we saw it through a stem lens and so we even worked with like a london detective and they did like a csi type thing and had like the body, the fake body, and they had to figure out who done it and stuff. Um, we went to like the computing museum, like learned about how world war ii was. Um, stopped through to them decoding codes and stuff and intercepting codes. It was just amazing. And so that's what I want them to see the world, but also see it through a stem lens and see that they can go into stem-based careers and they don't have to be the normal ones that they hear about, right, and so we're giving them that exposure, that's amazing.
Speaker 2:So how long have you?
Speaker 3:been in business. So technically, we started with just nyla denay enterprises, which is the parent company, in 2017 and we were just blogging. We started as bloggers, then we became children's book authors and then 2021 is when we opened up nyla nova simversity and then also the nyla nova foundation, which is the philanthropic arm which we are raising funds and money so we can support the families on these um adventures, um into the programming and different things as well great, that's great.
Speaker 2:And so since you started your business, right, I know, when we talked one of one of the times, like you've talked, about how the highs and even the lows, I I know, yes, but it started really good, you know, like you were making the money, lady.
Speaker 3:Yes, was making the money. But I'll tell anyone that's an entrepreneur, a business owner, someone that's doing it as a side hobby, I wouldn't change that experience for anything because I learned so much. And when people say you learn through more when stuff doesn't go right, but you're like, no, that's not. But it's so true because when I was riding high I just thought it was going to continue to keep going. And so then when it started, you know, funding change, different grants change, opportunities got less. But then I learned how to pivot, I learned how to expand some of my reach, and so I learned to develop other types of programming. And so you kind of learn through. And I never call it failure. There's always a lesson to be learned and so you do.
Speaker 3:And then I'm like man, I can't wait to really get that trajectory back going, because now I see things differently and now I'm prepared. I wasn't prepared for I was like oh yeah, this is, this is great. This is great and it still is great, but you learn from both experiences.
Speaker 2:Okay, so for people, just kind of help us understand that better. So where are some of those opportunities that you had that were bringing in the money?
Speaker 3:Well, I was working with a lot of schools and organizations and they had a lot of grant money, but it was because of COVID Right, and so it was, you know, for the students that had lost some of their you know learning during the summer different things.
Speaker 3:It was to help them regain some of those things that, you know, you just couldn't teach over Zoom Right. And so I just assumed that schools had this type of funding that was in their budget, but that was just extra Right, this type of funding that was in their budget, but that was just extra. And so now we're trying to figure out how can we service schools, service families, and have it included in their budget, or we look for grants as well to help. And so it was just that, you know, everything was going great, but then I learned that I had to trim some of my expenses because money was coming in. I didn't, as a business owner, didn't understand about cash flow, revenue, timing, it's all of that. And so when you're just, you know, riding high, you're like, oh, it's going to keep coming in, but you don't prepare for when it's not. So I learned about rainy day funds and different things, and so those are all great experiences.
Speaker 3:Absolutely it hurt. It was like hey, what's going on? But I wouldn't change it for a world like it really was a great learning experience and I'm kind of glad I learned it early on. Yes, versus been you know, live 10 years in and then hit you know. So now I'm preparing for the long haul and it's super excited now to see where we're going to go next yeah, absolutely, I can tell the excitement yeah you know and and I know that you've put so much into me in like even where those opportunities are.
Speaker 2:So now you're pivoting your business because, well, let's talk about you know how you run your business, so you primarily work with education, like in the education community, yeah, so we work with um, we do STEM enrichment, so any out-of-school time.
Speaker 3:So most likely we're going to work with schools, we're working with like Boys and Girls Club, we're working with like community centers, and so because they have the students, they have the connection to the family, so we don't have to do a lot of advertising, because the kids are there and we go service the kids that are there, and so that's been working really well for us and I like it, because then we still get to talk to the families and work with the families. But we're dealing with multiple kids, like right now our camp that we're doing. We have like 100 students, so pre-K through fifth grade, and so we're working with those students and then we get in touch with the families as well. So that's what we're doing.
Speaker 2:That's amazing. So now, so does your business. Is it seasonal?
Speaker 3:See, right now it is. It is seasonal, so we are trying to work with it to be more, you know, sustainable throughout the school year. We do kind of run it like a university, so we have terms, okay. So we have like the spring term, winter term, fall term, and then our summer term, and then we work a lot to do the breaks and so we do activities doing like spring break, fall break, so it is very seasonal. But then when we're not in camp, then we're doing other stuff where we're taking those what we call STEM ventures, those trips, and then, where we're taking those what we call STEM ventures, those trips, and then now we're working with families. We got this called the Not an OverSTEM Attack Program, which is just taken off. We started at the Children's Museum and now it's at three locations where we're actually working with families through STEM education, but then we talk to them about conflict resolution, gun violence prevention, health and wellness, and so now we're not just working with the student, we're working with the family, which is helping build the community.
Speaker 2:Wow. Okay, I want to get into some of those unique opportunities that you have lately, but before we go there, I want to acknowledge that I feel like you do a great job putting the things that you're doing out there. A lot of small business owners who were so wrapped up in the business or trying to get the next clients that we forget to post, we forget to share the news, and I think you do such a wonderful job of that.
Speaker 3:I wouldn't say wonderful, but thank you.
Speaker 2:No, because that's how I learn about a lot of these things.
Speaker 1:I know, I know.
Speaker 3:And it's not all me. I do have a marketing director. I met Brandy back when I was living in Florida when we was just doing books, and so she's helped me grow the brand. So I definitely can't take all the responsibility. And then now I just and that's what people think oh, I got to have it perfect.
Speaker 3:You don't you just, in the moment, take pictures, take video, post them? People like that raw footage, people like to see you in action. It doesn't have to be all cleaned up, you don't have to have all these wonderful captions. Sometimes I just post a picture and say, now that I was them. And then I catch because I'm on the go all the time and there's still like stuff that I did last week. I have a post-it chat and I'm like, okay, I got to stop and post and so you have to get out there. People want to see you Like. They say people invest not in always your product, they invest in you. So they see you doing what you're doing Like some people don't even know my name or know Nylah Nova, they just see me and they'll go to STEM lady.
Speaker 1:And I answer.
Speaker 3:I'll be the STEM lady, so it's just getting out there and people that you don't think that's even watching watch us, because I'll see people that I haven't talked to since we probably graduated high school and they're like I love what you're doing with Nia LaNova. And I said they never commented they never, liked anything, but people are watching, they are watching. So even if you don't get a lot of likes. You don't get a lot of followers. People are watching.
Speaker 2:And you'll be surprised that you don't see it, but they're watching. Yeah, that's. I like that a lot, I really do, and I feel like you've just really make like what you just said right now. I feel like I hope it helps somebody to make it seamless. You don't need it to be all perfect to make it look all like. I use chachi pt a lot.
Speaker 3:I was gonna say that like for my little uh, the, the copyright, like the book of posts. I used to have someone write all that. Now I just put it in there. I need a Monday motivation post and once you use AI since we are STEM it learns your voice. And you can teach it your voice. So it's you. It doesn't sound robotic. It's you putting the things out there and stuff.
Speaker 2:I mean, those things are so advanced now, like you said, I've told it who my target audience are, my voice, the things that I like and things like that. So I usually would just say I'm trying to write this.
Speaker 3:I write it almost like in bullet points and I say like make it sound good, yeah, yeah, and then I can upload some stuff that sounds like gibberish to me and it prints it out.
Speaker 2:I was like oh, I sound good, yeah, let's use that. So yes, oh, my goodness. So okay, a lot of opportunities are coming to you and I don't even know if you feel like it's partly because you're putting yourself out there or maybe there's other things. What do you feel? So a lot of things.
Speaker 3:It's so funny when people and this is something I have to tell entrepreneurs, small business owners some of the things that people see that I'm doing, I probably applied to it or found out about it six months ago and so it becomes new to you know my audience, but it's something that I planted that seed six months ago, so you always are looking for the next thing. So, like I'm in different business training programs, I applied for pitch contests. That was almost like five, six months ago and sometimes I forget about the thing and they're like congratulations, you're selected. I was like I forgot and so now I have to keep a list of things. But you have to be proactive. Like you want to build the business but it won't go anywhere if no one knows about it. Right, and if you're not connecting. Networking is key. You have to get out there, because people will tell me stuff and they're like did you know about such and such? I'm like hold up, I put it on my little task manager and I'll go back and look at it later.
Speaker 3:Right but never give up an opportunity. When someone says something, write it down, go back to it, find out about it. And so, like I said, a lot of things people are seeing like you're doing this. I was like, yeah, but I applied six months ago or even a year ago and didn't even think anything about it. And then it comes. You know it happens. So you got to constantly be putting out there, looking for the next thing, aligning it with your brand. I was going to say, because you can't just apply for everything If it doesn't align with your brand, it doesn't make sense, it's a waste of time. And some people are like you know you got to do everything. You want to do things intentional and be strategic about it, because you'll spread yourself too thin and you'll water down your brand. And so when people are like, well, what is she doing? Is she selling this? Is she doing this? Is she doing Like like? You want to be known for one thing.
Speaker 3:And so that's me, small business owner STEM education, empowering women, especially women of color. So that's my brand. And so when they see me, they know I'm promoting one of those things. And there's no question. And if I start saying you know nothing against any other occupation or business, but if they're like but when did she start doing that? And then they're like oh, she's doing too much. You know, you want your brand to be very powerful.
Speaker 3:We don't want to confuse people and you don't want to confuse people, and so you got to have those key things. I say be known for top three things, right? So people know you and they see you.
Speaker 2:They don't you place. They're like, oh, she's here for that or she's here for that. Okay, so be intentional, know where you're going and then stick to your brand, like, stick to your brand colors, you're always gonna see me in some pink, some teal, some purple.
Speaker 3:That's my brand colors, right? So you always. You know, they're like oh, there she goes. They see me in pink, it's, it just resonates yeah so you just kind of want to stay consistent. Stay consistent because you, because you're I tell people normally I have stuff to set some versity on, but I want to get dressed up and be cute today. But I'm just saying like they want to recognize your brand awareness.
Speaker 3:And so you want them to recognize what you do every time they see you. You want it to click, or they even just think about it. So you just have to. You're the walking billboard, absolutely, you're your walking brand, you're your walking billboard. Sometimes you don't even have to post, you can just be there. Or when you take pictures with someone and someone sees you in that picture, they're like I know those colors, I know what you know, right. So you're just always doing stuff intentionally.
Speaker 2:I love that intentionality and then put you, I feel like and again, not nothing against, oh my god, I probably shouldn't say this, but what I was gonna say in a better way is that you said it right you're the walking billboard. So even if you have someone doing your marketing, you have to be intentional about it, you have to want to do it, you have to think about ways that you can do it, like showing up or like, look, I think you, you're such a, you're such a good poster child for doing this, because I know you have a marketing person, but you also put in effort intentionally.
Speaker 3:Yes, it has to be you. Some people are like, well, I don't like being in front of the camera, I don't like this. You have to do something because it's your brand. People want to buy into you. Some people are like, well, I'll have a faceless brand and you know, if you're doing more e-commerce, you're selling a product that may work, but when you want people to buy your service, they have to see you, they have to see how you show up, because how can they believe in you or, like want to purchase your services, if they never see it? And so, like you said, you have to show up.
Speaker 3:Like I used to do more lives, it just got too busy, but I'm always trying to post a video or a picture or something just to tell people, hey, I'm still out here. So you have to find out what you're comfortable with doing and then build that confidence and then also what's easiest for you, right. And then, when you do have more time, then devote that time, but don't just go dormant, right? You know, even if you take a vacation like some people take vacations they're like, well, I'm going to get away from social media for a week. Plan your post, plan your post. You might be away from it, but you should never let it just die down, because that momentum you're building up will die down too especially with the algorithms and stuff you got to keep it going.
Speaker 3:People want to see you, so plan your post. You don't even have to man it, you know, but you can be gone away from it for a week, wow.
Speaker 2:Okay, so were you ever nervous in the beginning about posting or being on camera? Yes, all the time.
Speaker 3:It's just, but it came natural and, first of all, I'm a people person, I love to talk and so and I've been a teacher.
Speaker 1:And you look good on camera too. Thank you.
Speaker 3:I've been a teacher for over 20 years so I had to learn early on to get in front of a crowd that maybe don't know me that especially when you got middle schoolers they're a little hostile.
Speaker 3:So I had to learn how to be comical and like warm and kind of engaging with them. So I've been having 20-year practice. So it's not like it happened overnight. So if you worked in an office or you never really had to speak in front of a crowd, it can't be intimidating. But practice, practice, practice. That's the only way you're going to get better. That's the only way, okay.
Speaker 2:So just basically keep practicing in front of the camera, in front of the mirror or something like that. Okay, yep.
Speaker 3:And do it in front of people that can encourage you and inspire you. Because when I talk, I was looking at the crowd and if it's my mom or family members or someone Because when I talk I was looking at the crowd and if it's my mom or family members or someone, or even just people, I see someone, like one person might be nodding their head like in agreement of what I'm saying, and I kind of focus on that person because they're giving me that positive energy, like they understand what I'm saying, and it makes me more comfortable. And then if I see somebody that's kind of I'm like look at that person, I'm going to look at that person, like you have to just pick your people out and then it'll get easier and easier.
Speaker 2:Okay, Okay, so in the conversation before we started this recording, you've given me even so many ideas and opportunities that are out there that you're like go to do the bottom line. So you said some of these opportunities you've you know started them several years ago. Let's break down some of them. So the pitch contest like how did that all start?
Speaker 3:Well, years ago. Let's break down some of them. So the pitch contest like, how did that all start? Well, it's so funny. Um, I've um and you actually was there when, um, we went to the joy of you by sunny lou. Um, she had um a program and then you went, and then I met kendria williams, who's over the pitch fees, and we just met her when we was getting our nice little shrimp.
Speaker 2:Remember that and so we were just talking.
Speaker 3:And, like you say, seeds get planted that you don't need was getting our nice little shrimp Remember that? Uh-huh, we were eating it, yeah, and them chocolate covered strawberries. And so we were just talking and, like you say, seeds get planted that you don't even realize, right. And so maybe this was probably a year ago, two years ago, and I saw someone was saying, hey, you know, there's a pitch contest coming up, and I was like I've never done a pitch contest, let me try it. And contest, let me try it. And so I applied, still not making the connections. That's her program, right. And so then when, um, the first day they selected you and you had to call there and I saw her and we both looked and she was like I forgot, you were not in lenovo, and so she picked me about her team. It's a team that picked us based on the strength of, like, our website and our application. But we never did put that connection together. And now we're like, yes, you know, and stuff.
Speaker 3:So it's those planting seeds, meeting people write down what they do. And then when someone mentions stuff, like I say if I can't look it up, then I look it up later and then I apply. And now, with ChatGPT and different things like that, it's easier to write these proposals. It's easier to write this. It's still my voice, it's still my ideas, but it's a lot less time because it's organized in a way that's really feasible. And so I've just been applying for that, I've been getting grants that way. I've been reaching out to foundations Now, because now I have the confidence, because I'm speaking their language, right, right.
Speaker 2:Wow, and so you have your speaking coming up too, right, yeah, so?
Speaker 3:a year ago I had spoke at this particular conference but I had a partner man, steve Whittle. We had did like how to use his gamification with environmental science, and so we both spoke about that. And then I didn't realize they were doing it again, like how to use his gamification with environmental science. And so we both spoke about that and then I didn't realize they were doing it again.
Speaker 3:It's a yearly conference and someone I had got went to this eco-science challenge at Indiana State Museum and I was a judge and they were like, hey, you know, we got the conference coming up in November, you should apply. And I said, okay, to be a speaker, and it's going to be at the zoo. I said, well, I love the zoo, I could be at the zoo. And so I just seen what they were the five categories and one is one of the things I love preschool, trying to get them and it's about nature and space and so creating preschool nature spaces out there so kids can really come out and enjoy nature, and so that's what I'm going to be speaking on in November. And so they just sent to say congratulations, you've been selected.
Speaker 3:And I'm like yeah, oh, my goodness so another thing that adds to my portfolio, because I'm really trying to build my speaking brand part up, because now I'm like I've been putting in the work, I'm a thought leader. Now it's like, how do I transform those skills into something larger where I can have my own platform and still my brand? But now I can, you know, start local conferences and then become nation and international. And that's one of the things I want to do.
Speaker 2:I think I love your intentionality. I feel like you have a vision of where you're going, what you want, and you're doing everything you know and can do to make that happen. And I think that's what, honestly I just did a podcast about that and I think it's so important that business owners kind of think like that yes, you have to kind of have an idea of where you're going, you know, like, even if it's not completely clear, you know. I think that's why we also do those vision boards.
Speaker 3:Vision boards, I just want to say you have to be the visionary for your business and it may change because what I started five years ago, my vision board and my vision looked differently. But those you know challenges, those things that shape, and then you always tell people what is your perfect day, what is your perfect week look like, what is your perfect month, and then you create your business around that. I love that Because there's some stuff that in people's businesses that they don't like but they're spending the bulk of their time.
Speaker 3:No, you hire someone for that Right, you pick what you're like. Today I could come here and sit with you. I'm going to go somewhere else and do something at Butler University, Then in the afternoon I'm going to put my lab coat on and I'm going to be doing STEM at the camp. So my whole day. But I get to create that and it takes time. But you find out what you love and then see what would I want to do in the future, and then you plan those different steps on how to get there and then, like you said, you're being intentional because I'm, like, three years from now, want to be, you know, on a stage and and Rome talking about this, and Paris and Italy, but I have to start here in Indianapolis and so that's what people wanted.
Speaker 3:They see that, but they don't see. You got to start these smaller steps and stuff, but always have the big picture in mind, always have the big picture in mind.
Speaker 2:Wow, okay, you are also in the zoo which. When I heard that, you know there's been a year, at least two now, and I was like, oh you, you know like setting up in the zoo which. When I heard that you know there's been a year, at least two now, and I was like, oh, you know like setting up in the zoo doing all of these things, oh, children's Museum sorry, children's Museum. So like that's a big deal, and how did that come about?
Speaker 3:They just one of the things someone bought our well.
Speaker 3:I guess someone posted about our books in a local mag, uh, local newspaper. Do you know how that person got to know? Why? You have no idea. I didn't even know it was in there and someone from the children's museum saw it and reached out to us and then from that local paper we were asked to come on the news and then just that, you know people seeing us. And that's why I said you never know like that, the same book that I've been selling for six years now is still getting notoriety. It's still getting me into doors. Don't give up on your product.
Speaker 3:Because, you may not be getting sales right away, continue to sell and continue to use that to get into the door, and that's what we've been doing. It's the same book. We've added three or four more books since then, but it's still the premise that that first book is still getting us on the news. It's still getting us into locations. It's still helping us win pitch contests like don't give up on your product, especially when you know that's the vision that you have for yourself and someone you know because they're not buying it at the beginning don't mean it won't become big later right, you have to autograph one of those books.
Speaker 2:Thank you, I will, I will. I should have brought the new one, the stem travel journal.
Speaker 3:It's amazing they got little activities for um, even adults were buying the book. They were like I could do this on a road trip and different things and then they can document what's going on on their trip and stuff.
Speaker 2:So wow look, I'm sitting out here in awe of you.
Speaker 3:You've been on TV I tell people, but they don't see me at night crying. I don't know.
Speaker 2:And my poor husband I'm like I don't know what.
Speaker 3:I'm doing because, truthfully, I always say it's like building a plane in the mid air and you're trying to build it before it hits the ground.
Speaker 2:That's entrepreneurship.
Speaker 3:And so you're trying things that may work, that may not work, but you have to be flexible and you have to pivot Right, Because if you hold on to something too long you might hit the ground and crash. So if you see it's not working, I'm not saying get rid of it completely, but you got to try something different at this time.
Speaker 2:To stay afloat. So how do you determine that point, where you make it? You know like it pivots.
Speaker 3:Well, when you try something long enough and you're like this is not working, or you're like I'm going to come back to this because there's a lot of things that I still want to do with the business, but it wasn't the right, time.
Speaker 2:Okay, let me ask that question specifically. So, you just talked about your first book and you've been selling it for six years, right, and it sounds like now is when it's now giving you a lot more opportunities. So, like, did you stop selling it? Or like where you just, you just kept well, I have more visibility now.
Speaker 3:Okay, and so when I was first selling it, we were just children's book authors. So it was like if you see me on, you know in the local library or you saw me, you know, at burns and nobles doing you. It was just so local. But now it's me taking advantage of social media, me going to different networking events, me having a table at the Children's Museum, you know. So now the visibility. And then it's so funny. Some people are like I know that book, I know you know. So now it's getting out there and stuff. So just having more visibility, that's amazing, thank you. But I didn't give up on it. And now you just keep adding. I'm adding other books, adding other things, you know, stem kits, all those things to go around it, you know, surround the product and so, but it's still the brand and so I want to say one thing and I know it's all
Speaker 3:script no, but people always say have different streams of revenue. You can have the same product, the same brand, brand and have different streams. You don't have to get seven different businesses. And that's a misnomer. Some people are like, oh, I got to sell this and this and this. I started with the children's book. I'm still doing the children's book, but then I created a children's program around it and then also now I have children's trips, then I have children's STEM kids. So it's the same brand, it's the same product. I got seven different streams of revenue that can come in, but it's still my brand. So I don't have to water my brand down and like, okay, now let me go over here and sell food, and let me go over here and do this.
Speaker 3:And now I've got to have five different business names the same name but just different arms of it to bring in grants over here, sponsors over here, client pay here. Find seven different ways that you can make money from your brand and, like we were just saying, content creation, keep it coming. It's different ways, but if you're watering down your brand because you're doing five and six different things, do the same thing. Just find different ways of selling it or making it available to your audience I love that.
Speaker 3:I love that it's like you have to be focused yes, because if you're not focusing it's gonna pull you in different ways and yeah and like that.
Speaker 2:you know, because like and I, and I think that that might be something to, I hope, set set somebody free, like when you are pulled in multiple different directions. But then you're like well, why is it not working? Maybe because you're being pulled in multiple different directions and we all have several different gifts.
Speaker 3:I don't believe one person has one specific gift, but you have to make those gifts work for you and then for me. When I started seeing that the book was starting to get some traction, then I started to program it. But the programming took us off. Like I'm able to do this full time now, not because of the books, because of the programming, but it's all together and so you have to figure that out. But if you're starting to get pulled in 18 different directions, you're going to get exhausted. You don't have no focus. You can use all your gifts for that one particular brand, but use it in different ways.
Speaker 3:And so that'll make you more successful. And I tell people don't spread yourself thin.
Speaker 2:Because we already wear too many hats. Yeah, right, so why?
Speaker 3:are you trying to do something different? I just have different things under the umbrella, but they're all Nylanova Nylanova Stem Aquatics. Nylanova, nylanova Stem Aquatics. Nylanova Stem Attack, nylanova Stem Lit. They're all based on Nylanova the science superhero, but it's her doing different programmings and dealing with different audience. This one is for family, this one is straightly for preschool. This one is for elementary, this is for us traveling with families, but it's still Nylanova the brand.
Speaker 2:As you us traveling with families.
Speaker 3:But it's still nylon over the brand, wow okay, as you were just talking, I just saw you sitting on tv, like on cnn.
Speaker 2:Oh, we're trying, we're getting there like so if anybody has a, contact um we know we're available no, like I literally just saw that come on, come on through like come on through. Oh my god, probably shouldn't have said that on school, but anyway, no, come on, we're going Because I always say it's bigger than me.
Speaker 3:It's definitely a movement. Even me and Nala got a little hand signal. We were like we're community builders and the building part is that it's more than just us. We're not doing this just for us, we're doing it for generations to come, and so we have to inspire. We can't wait till kids are in middle school, high school, and say you can be great, you can be the STEM superhero. We're going as three years old they're talking about chemical reactions and they're learning about different biology terms and different aviation in kindergarten. We have to be intentional on starting early and so it's bigger than us. And so when we're involving families, we're involving churches, we're involving community centers, it's going to build the community and, like you said, it's going to. We're going to be on CNN, we're going to be on Good Morning America, just because it's not just about Nikesha Washington and Nyla Novastem. It's about the community coming together to say we want more for our families coming together to say we want more for our families.
Speaker 1:We want more for our students. That's good oh look at you.
Speaker 2:Come on, child, I'm trying. And so you have an event. Oh, you're going to be at the Black Expo.
Speaker 3:Yes, and I forgot the booth number, but guys, come out and see us. We're going to be at the Black Expo all weekend. They moved it up. It used to be the end of july, now it's the end of june, um, and so we're going to be there friday, saturday and sunday selling our books, but also, um, letting people learn more about our brand, all the different offerings we have, signing people up we're always looking for volunteers and sponsors and different things, and so we'll be there, um, and we're actually going to be at new fields on tuesday for the get on board I forgot about that, um. Where we're actually going to be at Newfields on Tuesday for the Get On Board I forgot about that when we're looking for new board members to join the Nile and Nova Foundation, because our founding board members this is the end of their term and they've done what they can, and now we're getting more community partners to join the board so we can grow it even faster and more intentional as well.
Speaker 2:And what are you looking for in your board members?
Speaker 3:So we're looking for people to have connections to the community. The Nile and Oak Foundation is primarily there to raise funding for our three initiatives STEM, discovery, exploration and literacy. So if someone has experience or is really good in fund development like being able to go out there and do fundraisers and have connections. But we're also looking for people to network and grow and tell others about what they're doing not just me. We need more people out there and to show the importance of STEM education at an early age. That's good. That's so good. Thank you. So you want to be a board member?
Speaker 1:Reach out to us.
Speaker 3:We're looking for board members, volunteers, just to really get the word out there wow god, I am.
Speaker 2:Every time I sit with you, you know I'm in the midst of greatness.
Speaker 3:Come on now.
Speaker 2:You know we're gonna do this yes, thank you so much for just being just being raw, being honest and willing to share. I don't think that a lot of people are willing to share the ups and downs or the opportunities.
Speaker 3:I talk about it all the time because I feel like it was given to me. I don't want anyone else to have to bump their heads and to learn from it. Understand if they do bump their head. It's a learning experience. Don't stop. Because you bump your head you might slow down, you might change direction a little bit, but don't stop, Because if you stop, there's always that little picture they show on Facebook and the little man like chunking away and then like the gold on the other side, and then he gives up. And if he would have just hit it one more time he would have had it. And so I'm like I'm not giving up. I told my husband there's no plan B, this is it. And when you put your mind to that and you say there's no plan B, I have to make this work, You're going to figure it out and do everything in your humanly possibly you can to make it happen. And then when you realize it's above you or you need extra help, you seek that extra help. That's right.
Speaker 2:Because, speaking of help, you know everything you've said so far make you look like superwoman, but I know that there you mentors, you have teams you know to help you. Tell us a little bit about how your mentors, maybe coaches, how they are like helping you yes, and so I have.
Speaker 3:And everyone knows the amazing. If you don't know, you have to know her. Caroline Mays, she's amazing and I'm in part of her black leader um, black legacies and leaders um program and it's basically taking black women that are leaders in their careers or entrepreneurs and she really pours into us. Once a month we get speakers that come in just to tell us about their experience and it's like giving us nuggets about how to run a business successfully, how to be in your career and be at the top, overcome challenges, and so she's a great mentor. Like I said sunny lou williams, I was just with her at a golfing event and just on the golf course. I never played golf before, but she was pouring into me about how to, you know, deal with certain challenges and how to deal with certain people. So I actively seek out those that I see doing what I want to do, and then they are willing to bring me along, and so anytime they're having something, I'm supporting them.
Speaker 3:You can't always want someone to support you. They have something, I'm there. If it calls, I will find the money. If it's just for me to sit there, I will be there, and so you can't learn if you're not in the room and I was talking about I want to be at the table. I want to be at the table, I want to be at the table. But you have to bring something to the table. That's right. And sometimes you got to sit at the little kid's table until you get to the big table. That's good. But you got to be patient and you have to be able to work it Like. You can't just expect it. Some people are like oh, success overnight? There's no such thing as success overnight. We see that person just eventually become successful. But I guarantee you they have a story. They have a story.
Speaker 2:Carl, you are so wise, I know.
Speaker 3:It's just experiences. Kick my butt and it teaches you. Like they say, experience is the best teacher. It is, and that's what I was just telling you earlier. I've taken my business to what I've known how to get, but now I'm looking for business coaches and business mentors, because you don't know what you don't know, that's right, and you and I have gaps that I need to fill, and I mean I can sit and study, but then the business will, like, falter. So I need someone to come in right now and say, hey, this is what you need to do, this is what you need to do, and so I'm actively seeking those people out and so you have to do that.
Speaker 3:You have to realize, when you have reached, what you can do. You can still be that visionary, but you need someone that has operational, that has managed, you know, have production, you know those types of skills to come along beside you. That's really good.
Speaker 2:Thank you. So where can we buy these books and some of your other products?
Speaker 3:Everything is on NylanovaSTEMcom, all our social media, nylanova, n-o-v-a, stemcom, and that's where we are. You know, we are really getting out there in the community. We're doing things. I'm so glad that we're getting brand awareness. People are seeing us and like, oh, there they go. And so it's not just me, like she said. I have a team, I have a chief of staff, a CFO. We have a lot of instructors that we call professors. They're out there spreading the good news. We have people that are doing our finance. We have people that are doing our finance.
Speaker 2:We have people that's behind the scenes creating our curriculum, doing the workbooks, and so yeah, okay, I was going to end this, but I have to ask one more question. Come on, come on. So you have all of this team and I think that for someone out there, they're probably thinking about the cost of all of that. Yes, like, how do you go about even starting to have?
Speaker 2:a team Because it's a lot to do on your own right. But like you know the value of what other people bring, how do you even venture into all of that?
Speaker 3:So you always remember ROI return of investment.
Speaker 3:So I always look at where my gaps are and I'm like, okay, what I can't do, and now what AI can't do for me, because I need that human touch. And so then I'm looking for those types of skills. And then I find those people and I tell them, hey, this is all I can pay right now. But if you see the vision and stuff, they okay. They may say I'll work for you for five hours a week, and and you know, and I'm like, okay, we got to put that in the budget, right. And so I'm like that's how many books I got to sell, I got to get this many programs so I can pay for this person, right. But if that person is going to bring double the value that I just paid for them, it's a win-win, that's right.
Speaker 3:But you can afford and try to find someone that has those skill sets that can help. And let them know I can only afford two hours a week and you'll be amazed that with those two hours you can get a. They can get a lot done. That's going to take things off your plate and they're going to bring that, the return of investment. And then, as you grow, you'll be able to start adding, because I didn't start with 12 instructors and this and this I started with just me. Then I voluntold my mom, you're helping. Voluntold your mom, voluntold my son, let's go. And so you have to do that. And then now we were able to start hiring people outside the family. But you have to start with the resources around you. That's good, yep.
Speaker 2:Oh, the family. But you have to start with the resources around you. That's good, oh my God, girl, you are doing it. Thank you so much for your time here.
Speaker 3:Thank you, she is amazing. Subscribe. I love the podcast. I listen to it because not just me there are so many influential people you have on here that are dropping gems because we have to help each other. You don't know what. You don't know Absolutely, and you learn from others and everyone has a story to tell. They have nuggets to give out and you have to soak that stuff up. You have to soak it up, yeah.
Speaker 2:Thank you so much for coming.
Speaker 1:Oh, my God.
Speaker 2:All of the links and everything that we've talked about will be in the comments. You already know how that goes. Thank you again. So much, Nakesha, for coming. Thank you, Victoria, my friend, my sister.
Speaker 3:Yes, thank you, my business bestie. Yes, we are just in this together and I tell everyone what is the saying If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, build a team go together, and so you have to do it together, because you can't do it by yourself. Wow.
Speaker 2:Wow, until next time, look into your business and see how you can bring others along. It doesn't have to be full time, but just a little bit here and there, and some people will volunteer hours, get interns.
Speaker 3:They just want to learn and so they'll work for free and knowing that they'll get exposure. You tell them, you put their name on stuff. There's all types of ideas. Right, you get creative when you don't have a lot of money.
Speaker 2:True, yeah, but I think it also begins with having the focus and being intentional too. So, until next time, be focused and be intentional. Yes, until next time, be focused and be intentional.
Speaker 1:Yes, oh, my God. God, that was so good, thank you.
Speaker 2:I am like I'm just looking at you, like when you were talking, I was like I just imagined you, like you flashed in my face like Come on now, come on vision. God, you see that, come on.
Speaker 3:I'm trying, I'm like that, like that's why, like at night it'd be rough, and I'm like, okay, it's bigger than me one day at a time, yeah, and like I'm encouraging other people. So if I do nothing else, I always say what do you want your legacy to be?
Speaker 3:it doesn't have to be stem education, but it's like I help people, I pour it into people and that's something that's going to live on. You know, and that's what you want. Like I truly believe people here on earth. You're, and that's what you want. Like I truly believe people here on Earth you're here for a reason Right. And if you need to make an impact, it don't have to be global. It can be right in your family, in your neighborhood, in your community. But we have to do something. Because you can't talk about the problems and then don't try to be a solution. Sure, you don't. You know, if you don't do that, then you have no right to complain about anything if you're not trying to make it better.
Speaker 2:Right, because you're essentially part of the problem too Right because they're like these kids are not doing this, these kids are. Well, what are you doing?
Speaker 3:I'm just fussing at the kids. No, I saw that it was a need. I couldn't wait until when they got out of my class in middle school. I'm like I need to go back even earlier years old, you know, four years old, five years old start implementing and giving them that confidence and letting them know they're great, you know. And so then my little granddaughter, she's four years old, she's like I'm great, grandma, yes, you are, I'm amazing, yes, you are. You have to start those affirmations early. Then, as they get older, they'll remember those things, those seeds that are being planted that you don't have to. You know, if they stray away they'll come back. They'll come back, but you put that foundation down, thank you.
Speaker 2:You did so great Thank you. Thank you, anytime I'm going to check out the Butler program.
Speaker 3:Yeah, I'm going to send you the link, because I'm about to go there now and see some stuff, and then I'll send it to you.
Speaker 1:Thank you, I appreciate you so much. You're welcome, thank you.
Speaker 2:This is so good, yes, but what you're doing?
Speaker 3:is great. We just got to figure out how to.
