Cultivating New Perspectives

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Misty Freeman, Founder of Mocha Sprout, located in Midland City, AL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

As an educator with over 20 years of experience, I recognize how microaggressions and unconscious bias impact students of color in the learning environment. They often do not engage, and the academic gap between them and their peers continues to grow. This leads to depression and mental health issues for students of color.

My customers include educators and other stakeholders who work with students of color. I provide keynote speaking and workshops to make educators aware of unconscious bias and how to address it in the learning environment. Also, I advocate for the plight of the Gen-Z black girl. I provide workshops on building up self-esteem and inspiring these girls to pursue fields in technology.

Tell us about yourself

I've worked as a social case worker, teacher, vice principal, and currently a director of special education. I notice that we are losing students of color. They show very little engagement in the learning environment. As I observed, I noticed most students of color have a sense of not belonging. As a black woman, I understand from my own experiences how feeling as if you do not belong makes you feel. So many situations have occurred in the past two years that have significantly impacted students of color. Yet, I see very few services that focus on these students.

So, in 2021, I decided to launch Mocha Sprout. My goal is the change the conversation and cultivate new perspectives around unconscious bias. In addition, we constantly see reform that addresses the needs of black boys, but we rarely discuss the plight of black girls even though they're the most at-risk group of young people.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was deciding to launch. During the COVID pandemic, the idea came to me. I began working on a plan and started accepting customers in March 2021. Five years ago, I never imagined being a business owner. I am proud of the steps I have taken toward social entrepreneurship.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I currently work full-time as a Director of Special Education. This job is very demanding but very rewarding. Finding the time to work on my business can be difficult. Yet, I think about the impact I want to make, and I keep pushing. Once I take a step, it becomes easier to keep going.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

There are so many tips I could give! However, my top three include:

Do what inspires you. It will never feel like work.
Find support. I encourage business owners to get a business coach.
Plan and stick with your schedule. It's easy to get distracted. Staying on schedule will help you be more productive.

I encourage all business owners not to give up. Lean into what you are doing and know that it is your calling. The disruptive leadership style of business owners is needed. As individual entities, we can create collaborative change.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.mochasprout.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mochasprout
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmistydfreeman/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmistydfreeman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmistydfreeman/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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