The Seven-Figure CEO, Tenora Mia Edwards

Tenora Mia Edwards is a seven-figure CEO who mentors upcoming business owners by imparting her knowledge, wisdom, and skills. Her focus is on the neighborhood, the people, and giving them access to a core program that enables them to transform their ventures or creative concepts into successful ventures. I had the chance to talk to her about how she became an entrepreneur. She was open and talked about her experience as a single mother and a black woman and how other people attempted to use those things against her. Despite all the success and impact to date, she has incredible vision to continue the momentum in elevating Black entrepreneurs throughout our shared communities.

Cox: Tenora Mia Edwards, I’m eager to talk to the lady serial entrepreneur who has made seven figures. Let’s start with your entrepreneurial journey and the several enterprises you have.
Edwards: I launched my first company 25 years ago as a single mother. It was my first experience as an entrepreneur and eventually I expanded and launched several businesses all designed to create generational wealth and community impact. 

The Pink Party Retreat is what I’m most passionate about. It was established to create safe spaces for women to bond, build community, and discuss “taboo” topics to inspire healing conversations. Our members unite under the common goal of uplifting each other as a whole: to redefine what it means to ask for help, receive guidance, and thrive in one’s full femininity. My motto is to allow for error in your growth process. 

My consulting firm is my newest endeavor. I’ve been helping and mentoring individuals for years, especially in Cleveland, Ohio, but also all across the world. I converted this into a company where entrepreneurs and small business owners may receive customized programming to advance their ventures and aspirations.

Cox: You are accomplishing some incredible things. I’ve heard that you’re organizing a brand-new event this year called Pink and Black Honors. Give me more information.
Edwards: We are recognizing local and National entrepreneurs at this honors event. This upcoming event will take place at a stunning structure, Cleveland, Ohio’s Severance Hall on June 10th. Tabitha Brown, Hill Harper and Daymond John will be the special celebrity guests and presenters alongside two thousand invited visitors. Our young men will hear from author Hill Harper as he discusses his novel. Leading up to the event, business owners will also be able to participate in a special $20,000 pitch competition, where they can virtually pitch their innovative ideas. Winners will be recognized and awarded at the event.

Cox: Where did this spirit of enterprise originate from?
Edwards: Funny story: my first experience as an entrepreneur was in the sixth grade. Alongside my sister was selling used reflector belts that we  discovered in our attic space . Students eagerly purchased our reflector belts on a daily basis for about two weeks! It took a while until we were ordered to cease selling them in the principal’s office, but this was my first real entrepreneurial experience

Cox: What specifically about that encounter ignited your desire to start a business?
Edwards: I realized the natural talent and passion I had inside me which stirred a desire to identify ways to supply a need that in return provided a cash value.

Cox: For you, learning about entrepreneurship was a self-taught process that involved trial and error.
Edwards: I attended college for a purpose entirely unrelated to what I currently do. Early in my adventure, I lacked the right mentorship or advice. I was, nevertheless, driven and inspired to study more about business because of my desire. It’s been a long trip, Michael, believe me on that. Finding those mentors later in life who invested in me and taught me a lot has been beneficial to me. Because of this, I realized that mentorship is crucial for any entrepreneur or at the very least, the importance of locating a support system since this path will be difficult.

Cox: Like most entrepreneurs, you’ve experienced some ups and downs. What are some of the things you emphasize as being crucial for your mentees in your entrepreneur program?
Edwards: Learn how to manage your business. I refer to all areas, especially  accounting. Due to the departure of my prior accountant and the inability for us to obtain all of my tax records, I encountered a position where I experienced serious  financial accounting problems. I emphasize to my mentees the importance of taking an active role in your accounting affairs. Ask questions, get a second opinion ,know just as much about your business as your Accountant does!

Also, you should be aware that occasionally you’ll need to stop and regroup when life happens. After my brother tragically passed away I experienced lack of motivation and connection to my responsibilities as a business owner. Life happened. I was on the verge of giving up. Nevertheless, I took some time  to regroup and collect myself. Things were falling apart slowly but as I came back around to reality I had to pick back up the pieces of my business and get  things on track expiditiously. 

I can’t say this enough to find a mentor, coach, or other support system  for guidance or simply a shoulder to lean  on. Connect with someone who genuinely complements and is willing to  invest in you. 

Clients need to be certain they receive value for their money before spending money on a coach or someone who provides those types of  services. A skilled coach, for instance, can set you back $2,500 but ultimately enable you to save $25,000.

Cox: Basically, you have experienced everything as an entrepreneur. I’m interested in hearing from you about your experience as a black woman in particular.
Edwards: It has occasionally seemed quite lonesome, Michael. I have experienced a lot of bias as a woman at various points, particularly when it comes to commercial transactions and how other people see me. Oftentimes  when they  see a single woman approaching the table, they assume they can take advantage.. Yet I’ve been able to overcome difficulties like that with the assistance and encouragement of my family and close support systems.

I discovered that I no longer have to confront people who display  negative energy. I am aware of my value and am able to leave a situation or a conversation when I sense any discomfort in my spirit. I’ve grown so much as a person as a result of being an entrepreneur. I am stronger , wiser and a force to be reckoned with due to my experiences.

Cox: I’d love to hear if you have any advice for businesses, either dos and don’ts, before we part ways.
Edwards: Be sure to schedule family time. Family should always come first. Spend time on yourself and engage in self-care. You can become so engrossed in your work that you neglect to take care of yourself. Finally, make it a point to pay yourself regularly. Even if it’s just a modest sum, like $100. You may advance your business and retirement by taking simple actions now to prepare your future…