Welcome to Sky’s the Limit’s Limitless! Blog Series.

Read exclusive interviews with some of the most inspirational and motivating entrepreneurs around, featuring the stories of people who inspire us and encourage us to think differently and #BeLimitless every day. This month spotlights Founder Jo Sesay — we hope you enjoy her story.

And, if you’d like to hear more from Jo, be sure to join us for the First Episode of the Season Two Limitless! web series in 2023 with even more entrepreneur stories and journeys. Register Today!

Q: What inspired you to start your own business?

A: The main inspiration was becoming a mom. I’m a stay at home mother, but prior I’ve always been ambitious. My husband encouraged me to find purpose outside of our home so that I don’t forget that I’m more than just a wife and mom. Also, as a black parent especially, I want to leave a legacy for children. 

The work I do helps empower people to heal. So, the other reason I got into this was to bring my knowledge outside of my private community to others. I believe it’s key to assist the world around you with what you’ve been given. My business allows me to serve others that I may not have met in person.

Q: What keeps you motivated day-to-day to keep working on your business?

A:  I’m most motivated by the people I serve. When a customer or client tells me how my products, workshop or consultation helped them, it makes me want to keep going. That’s what causes me to keep formulating, asking questions, experimenting and working hard to deliver more from my business.

Q: How have mentors and other entrepreneurs played a role in moving your business forward?

A: Mentorship has made a world of difference in this journey! I had a business in the past, but had no one to really walk through it with me. This time I made sure to get mentored. First, it was in herbalism. Now, it’s in business. Having mentors has taught me to see opportunities. Also, to think bigger without fear and become more resourceful. I’ve learned not to overdo in areas, but most of all to pace myself as a growing business instead of rushing the process.

In regards to other entrepreneurs, it’s been refreshing and motivational to experience other people’s journeys. By hearing the resilience that others utilize, it really inspires me to know that my business can be successful and that the work is worth it.

Q: What’s the #1 challenge you’ve faced, and how’d you overcome it?

A: One challenge I’ve faced is my home life with my business. Being a stay at home parent, my first job is my family. When I launched Black Roots, it was a month after my youngest son was born. So, imagine having to deal with a newborn and business at once while also caring for a toddler and making time for my husband. That’s not even finding time for myself. I overcame that by being organized. I hear often how I haven’t seemed to miss a beat, and that means a lot to me. I also make time to rest or take a break which comes through communication at home.

Q: How did you approach funding for your business?

A: I approached funding with the mentality that I wanted to make sure I covered expenses from other means and not from my household. I started with a business credit card just to get inventory and supplies. After that I became intentional about finding grants that I could qualify for. I made it my mission to give it my best shot at each funding opportunity. So far, both have been the best decision I’ve made to fund Black Roots.

Q: How do you manage your time between working on your business and other aspects of your life?

A: I manage my time by organizing. Most of all, I make it a point to release what's not important so I don’t stretch myself beyond capacity. I have an amazing planner, sticky notes and phone reminders to keep me on task. If something takes longer I assess the rest of my day and either delegate or decide to save something for another day.

Q: Any words of wisdom or inspiration you’d give someone just starting out?

A: The most important thing you can do as an entrepreneur is do what you’re passionate about. We’re beginning to see many people get into business solely for money and become burnt out because there’s no love for what they do. If you can’t do your work with joy then it isn’t your work to do. Above all, preserve yourself through your process. A business is pointless if you’re too exhausted to enjoy it’s harvest.