Meet Tequila Michelle | Prophet, Entrepreneur, Author, & Mentor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tequila Michelle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tequila, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?

Embarking on my journey before college, career uncertainty was my trusty companion. I wandered until a light bulb moment hit me in my sophomore year – I had an undeniable affection for numbers. Naturally, I fancied myself as the future number cruncher extraordinaire. However, a stint in a cubicle revealed that my personality craved a grander stage than a sea of spreadsheets.

Entering the National Association of Black Accountants, where I quickly realized that my instincts were nudging me toward the dynamic realm of business. The cubicle life didn’t cut it; I needed the vibrant energy of the business world. Thus, my academic compass shifted, and I found myself navigating the seas of Business Management with a thrilling concentration in Administration.

Kudos to the fabulous NC Central University, where we are not your ordinary barnyard fowl – we proudly soar with EAGLE PRIDE, AMPLIFIED!

Simultaneously, my love affair with music was playing a symphony in the background. From my middle school days in the wind ensemble band, fluttering away on the flute and piccolo, to my high school and college stints as a majorette, the beats of music flowed through my veins. Recognizing the harmonious intersection of my passion for both music and business, I decided to weave them together.

In the symphony of life, 2020 marked the crescendo when I proudly founded Greater is She, LLC, operating as Kingdom Connections Management & Consulting Company. Why settle for one passion when you can orchestrate a masterpiece that harmonizes them all? Cheers to the journey, the beats, and the business – here’s to the sweet sound of success!

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
🔥 From Bella to Business: Rhyming Through Success!

🎤 Formerly known as Bella, I spun rhymes and rhythms for over 12 years in the secular music realm. 🎶 But then, I took a behind-the-scenes dive into the intricate symphony of the music business.🌐 Managing several talented artists fueled my passion for understanding the industry from every note to every contract. In 2020, I decided to compose my own melody and founded Kingdom Connections Mgt & Consulting Company.🎵 Recognizing the need for a harmonious career foundation, my mission is clear: to help fellow independent artists organize the very foundations of their musical odyssey. Whether it’s navigating copyrights, mastering royalties, or orchestrating a record label, I’m here to ensure your career hits all the right notes.🎹 Join me on this melodious adventure where we turn beats into business and dreams into chart-topping realities! 🚀

With every path, there will be obstacles. It’s how you handle those challenges that will make a difference in the outcome. I say, stay prayed up and in the will of God and he shall direct your path. Staying Kingdom Connected every step of the way! Some lessons I’ve learned within the music industry are as follows:

1. Never trust anyone with your money
2. Build a team of people who are integral, honest, and trustworthy (you can’t do it by yourself)
3. Keep God first!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Here is an itinerary below:

Day 1 – Welcome to Bull City with a Dash of Heritage:

Morning: Begin the day with breakfast at Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, a local favorite offering a delicious twist on a classic.
Afternoon: Immerse yourselves in the history of African Americans in Durham at the Hayti Heritage Center, a cultural hub celebrating the legacy of the Hayti community. Grab lunch at Nana’s Soul Food Kitchen for a taste of Southern comfort.
Evening: Experience the vibrant spirit of gospel and soul music at St. Joseph’s Historic Foundation/Hayti Heritage Center.

Day 2 – Exploring African American Arts:

Morning: Start the day at Beyu Cafe for a soulful breakfast. Visit the North Carolina Central University Art Museum, showcasing African American art.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Nzinga’s Breakfast Cafe, a local gem known for its homestyle cooking.
Evening: Attend a live performance at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC), featuring artists from diverse backgrounds.

Day 3 – Trailblazers and Icons:

Morning: Begin with breakfast at Refectory Cafe, known for its community-focused approach. Visit the Pauli Murray House, a tribute to the civil rights activist and Durham native.
Afternoon: Lunch at Beyu Blue, a jazz-inspired spot with a diverse menu.
Evening: Explore the Walltown Neighborhood, a historically African American community, followed by dinner at Jack Tar & The Colonel’s Daughter, located in the historic Jack Tar Hotel.

Day 4 – Jazz and Culture:

Morning: Enjoy breakfast at The Chicken Hut, a local institution known for its delicious fried chicken.
Afternoon: Visit Stagville State Historic Site, a preserved plantation showcasing the lives of African American enslaved people. Lunch at Taberna Tapas for a fusion of flavors.
Evening: Experience live jazz at The Shed Jazz Club while indulging in dinner.

Day 5 – Black Wall Street Legacy:

Morning: Begin with a visit to the Black Wall Street Gardens, a tribute to the thriving Black business district that once existed in Durham.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Zweli’s, offering authentic African cuisine.
Evening: Attend a cultural event or lecture at the Hayti Heritage Center.

Day 6 – Community Connection:

Morning: Head to the Southern High School Civil Rights & African American Heritage Center, a space dedicated to preserving the history of the African American community in Durham.
Afternoon: Savor lunch at Jamaica Jamaica Cuisine, a family-owned restaurant with authentic Jamaican dishes.
Evening: Join a community event or gathering in the historic Fayette Place Community, a significant African American neighborhood in Durham.

Day 7 – Farewell with Soulful Vibes:

Morning: Conclude the trip with breakfast at True Flavors Diner. Enjoy succulent southern-inspired recipes.
Afternoon: Take a stroll through Durham Central Park, a public space reflecting the city’s diverse culture.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at KoKyu Na’Mean, a fusion of Asian and Southern flavors, celebrating the diverse culinary influences in Durham.

Let’s not forget for dessert enjoy Favor Desserts for all your sweet tooth needs, lol!

This African American heritage-focused itinerary ensures a week filled with cultural immersion, historical exploration, and, of course, delicious food reflecting the vibrant diversity of Durham.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, a resounding shoutout to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Without His guiding light, where on earth would I find myself?

Next in line for appreciation are my spiritual mentors, Prophet Cedric Moses and Apostle Cary Rashaad Price of The Power Church. These remarkable leaders have not only nurtured my spiritual growth but have also been instrumental in cultivating and guiding my gifts throughout this profound journey.

And then there’s Coach Derrick Harper, a pillar of unwavering support from day one. His wisdom echoes in my ears, urging me to invest in myself while emphasizing a crucial principle – “Never forget to serve others!” A mantra so powerful, it’s etched in my mind: “Never eat from an environment that you didn’t serve in.” Now that’s a recipe for success with a side of profound impact!

Let’s not forget my dear friend, my brother from another Mother. Mr. Jason T. Mahoney of Crafted to Motivate, LLC. This man spoke life into me at my lowest moment. From that day on we have been thick as butter baby! He motivates me to push forward, no matter what the circumstances are! For that. I’m forever grateful.

Last but certainly not least, I extend heartfelt gratitude to Monica Ballard-Steele. Her obedience to the divine led her to seek me out, becoming the conduit for Godly wisdom that sparked the inception of Steele Entertainment, a record label with a name as robust as its sound – Solid Sound. Solid Voice. Steele Real. Together, we’re creating more than music; we’re crafting a symphony of purpose and authenticity. Cheers to Monica for not just hearing, but truly listening to the call of destiny!

Website: www.TequilaMichelle.com

Instagram: @Tequilamichelle_1

Facebook: Tequila Michelle or /tequilaj1

Youtube: @TequilaMichelle

Other: TikTok: @tequilamichelle1

Image Credits
Photo Credit to Tequila Michelle Professional photos credited to “A guy called Quest” Questin Clay