E280: Shirelle Francis - Ignite the spark of transformation

Learn more about Shirelle at:
 www.ileapgroup.com 1. Diversity of Experience
& Breaking Stereotypes


Shirelle’s Personal Story:

Her fashion choices (such as a standout outfit) initially led
others to assume they were selling clothes, rather than running a
successful IT and cybersecurity business. This was a pivotal
moment where she realized that assumptions based on appearance
(race, gender, etc.) don't always align with reality. She was
able to turn this situation into an opportunity to connect with a
key business partner, emphasizing the importance of diversifying
one’s thinking and not allowing past negative experiences to
shape future interactions.

There is a huge power in the diversity of
thought—both in business and in how one perceives
others. A mindset shift can lead to opportunities rather than
barriers.

2. The Role of Mindfulness and Self-Talk


Leticia's Wisdom:

Leticia introduces the concept of “telling ourselves our own
stories: why mindfulness teachings, thoughts, and choosing the
story we tell ourselves is important. When people experience
challenges or negative assumptions, the inner narrative they
create can either fuel suffering or open the door to more
productive thinking and action.

The message is clear: our mindset and self-talk can shape our
experiences and either limit us or open new possibilities.

3. Business Ownership: Passion vs. Profit


On Business Ownership:

Shirelle explains why separating passion from profitability
is a game changer: While passion can fuel a sense of purpose, it
doesn’t always lead to immediate financial success. Entrepreneurs
should focus on solving real problems (business problems) while
maintaining their passion on the side, ensuring it doesn’t become
a source of frustration if it doesn’t directly lead to revenue.

Understanding business operations is crucial for business
owners, particularly financial elements like Profit and Loss
sheets, cash flow, and systems for managing growth. Without this
infrastructure, passion alone won't sustain a business.

4. Systems and Processes in Small Business


Efficiency & Operations:

The power of systems and operations in small business
ownership: While it’s tempting to focus solely on passion and
product/service quality, a sustainable business requires
attention to financial management, organizing workflows, and
streamlining operations. Having clear systems in place for
managing cash flow and delegating tasks, so that the entrepreneur
can focus on the core functions of their business.

Using tools like Loom or Zoom to record processes is
practical advice for anyone looking to grow their business by
ensuring that workflows and knowledge are shared efficiently
within a team.

5. Cybersecurity’s Role in Business

Shirelle passion for cybersecurity:  a high percentage
of small businesses face cyberattacks. Their work in
cybersecurity is both a business solution and a way to protect
other businesses, allowing them to pursue their passion while
addressing a critical issue.

Cybersecurity becomes a symbol of responsibility and
security. Entrepreneurs can weave their expertise into their
mission of protecting and empowering others.

6. Finding Momentum & Inspiration


Leticia's Podcast and Message of Patience:

Leticia shares her own journey of producing a podcast for
five years without direct monetary rewards, underscoring the
importance of patience and commitment to passion. The rewards
often come in the form of impact and fulfillment, not just
financial compensation. She talks about the urgency she felt to
release content, especially the interview with Dr. Gladys
McCormick, a woman who introduced holistic medicine to the U.S.
and passed away shortly after the interview.

Sometimes external events can serve as a signal or a reminder
to move forward with projects that are meaningful, even when they
seem to have no immediate financial return.

7. Breaking News and Exciting Business
Milestones

Shirelle announces an exciting business achievement: closing
a deal with a Historically Black College/University (HBCU) for a
digital transformation and cybersecurity project. This includes
providing jobs and opportunities for students, which ties back to
their passion for empowering underserved and underrepresented
groups.

The significance of this project lies not only in the
technical aspects of cybersecurity but also in the social
impact—creating pathways for young people to enter the tech field
while benefiting from education and mentorship.

8. Gratitude and Giving Back

We should always express gratitude for life, work, and the
opportunities that come with it. Maintaining a sense of purpose
and using one’s position to help others, particularly
marginalized groups or communities that may not have the same
opportunities is so powerful and humane.



 


Key Messages from the Episode:



Mindset matters: The mindset plays a crucial
role in navigating business and life challenges. Choosing a
more empowering narrative can turn obstacles into
opportunities.


Passion and business: Your passion doesn’t
have to be profitable or business-connected. But your business
needs to solve problems. Passion doesn’t always equate to
immediate profitability, but when coupled with problem-solving
and business strategies, it can lead to long-term success.


Systems are essential for every business
owner: Having strong operational systems in place is
crucial for running a business smoothly. This includes managing
cash flow, creating efficient workflows, and being ready for
delegation.


Cybersecurity and social impact: There’s a
significant need for cybersecurity services, particularly for
small businesses. By combining technical expertise with a
mission to empower underserved groups, businesses can make a
social impact while ensuring growth and security.


Patience and persistence: Leticia’s story
about her podcast emphasizes the need for patience and
persistence in pursuing passions that may not yield immediate
financial returns. Success and fulfillment come from the impact
one makes, not just the financial rewards.



 


Key Topics:


Sherelle’s early influences: The impact of her grandfather’s
lessons in global citizenship, work ethic from her mother, and
dreaming without limits.


The role of exposure in youth development: Traveling, learning
new languages, and interacting with diverse cultures.


Career origin story: Sherelle’s transition from law aspirations
to a career in tech and IT, driven by an innate interest in
process optimization and technology.


"Choosing the right rooms": The importance of being in spaces
that align with personal values and goals, rather than conforming
to societal expectations.


Legacy vs. fame: Sherelle's desire to leave a lasting impact,
particularly on future generations, through her work in
leadership, tech, and community empowerment.


Empowering underserved communities: Sherelle's work through I
Lead Group and I Elevate Community, focusing on growth,
leadership, and work-life integration for women entrepreneurs.


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