Q: As an Army veteran, retired high school principal, and former school counselor, how have these diverse experiences shaped your current work as an education consultant and productivity coach?
JBN: As an Army veteran, retired high school principal, and former school counselor in Evans, Warrenton, and Augusta, GA (Columbia, Warren, Richmond counties), my diverse experiences have greatly shaped my current work as an education consultant and productivity coach. Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the importance of prioritizing well-being for leaders and educators in order to effectively support and empower those around them. The demanding nature of these roles can often lead to burnout and stress, making it essential for individuals in leadership positions to prioritize self-care and mental health. By drawing on my background in the military, education, and counseling, I am able to provide valuable insights and strategies for fostering a healthy work-life balance, managing stress, and maximizing productivity. Ultimately, I believe that investing in the well-being of leaders and educators is crucial not only for their own success, but also for the success of the students and staff they serve.

Q: You’ve founded Boots to Breakthrough, LLC. Can you tell us about the mission and vision behind this initiative?
JBN: Boots to Breakthrough, LLC was founded with the mission and vision of supporting leader and educator resilience and productivity. Through this initiative, we aim to provide comprehensive coaching and support services to help leaders and educators overcome challenges, build resilience, and enhance their productivity in order to thrive in their roles. Our goal is to empower individuals to navigate the complexities of leadership and education with confidence and effectiveness. By focusing on the well-being and professional development of our clients, we strive to create a positive impact not only in their own lives, but also in the communities they serve. Boots to Breakthrough, LLC is committed to helping leaders and educators reach their full potential and achieve success in their personal and professional endeavors.

Q: What do you consider your most significant professional achievement to date?
JBN: As someone who has earned a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and has served as the principal of two schools in Georgia, I consider my most significant professional achievement to date to be the transformation of school culture and student outcomes at both institutions. Through my leadership, I was able to implement innovative programs, foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, and cultivate a strong sense of community among students, staff, and parents. By focusing on student success, academic excellence, and social-emotional development, I was able to drive positive change and achieve measurable improvements in student achievement and school performance. These experiences have not only shaped my approach to leadership and education but have also reinforced my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of students and the broader school community.

Q: Which strategy or lesson from your newest book, Stand Up! Resilient Black Women Who Are Shaping the World With Their Faith, do you have to remind yourself of on a regular basis?
JBN: One strategy noted in chapter 15 from our collaborative anthology book, Stand Up! Resilient Black Women Who Are Shaping the World With Their Faith, that I have to remind myself of on a regular basis is the importance of taking time to BREATHE. In the midst of juggling multiple responsibilities, managing various projects, and navigating challenging situations, it can be easy to get caught up in the busyness of daily life and neglect our own well-being. The reminder to pause, breathe, and center myself is a powerful lesson that I often have to revisit in order to maintain my own resilience and inner strength. By prioritizing self-care and mindfulness, I am better equipped to handle the demands of leadership, inspire others, and continue making a positive impact in both my personal and professional life.

Q: How do you see your role in empowering other women, especially through your books and speaking engagements?
JBN: As an advocate for personal well-being and empowerment, I see my role in empowering other women through my books and speaking engagements as not only providing inspiration and guidance, but also promoting holistic wellness and work-life harmony. In today's fast-paced world, many women face the challenges of burnout, lack of resilience, and struggles to find balance between their personal and professional lives. Through my work, I aim to address these issues by sharing practical strategies for self-care, stress management, and building resilience. By emphasizing the importance of prioritizing personal well-being, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion, I hope to empower women to take control of their lives, pursue their passions, and thrive in all aspects of their journey. My goal is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where women can feel empowered, encouraged, and inspired to lead fulfilling lives that are aligned with their values and aspirations.

Q: What current projects or workshops are you particularly excited about?
JBN:  I am particularly excited about my upcoming "Take Time to BREATHE MasterClasses" and group coaching program. These initiatives are designed to help individuals prioritize self-care, manage stress, and cultivate a sense of well-being in their personal and professional lives. Through the masterclasses, participants will learn practical strategies for mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and creating a healthy work-life balance. The group coaching program will provide a supportive and collaborative space for individuals to explore their personal wellness goals, receive guidance and support while connecting with a community of like-minded individuals. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to empower others to prioritize their well-being, build resilience, and enhance their overall quality of life through these transformative programs. I believe that investing in our own self-care and personal growth is essential for living a fulfilling and purposeful life, and I am excited to guide others on this journey toward holistic well-being and success.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who are aspiring to enter the fields of education or coaching?
JBN: To young women aspiring to enter the fields of education or coaching, my advice would be to embrace your unique strengths, passions, and voice. In these fields, empathy, compassion, and the ability to connect with others are essential qualities that can make a significant impact on the lives of students, clients, and communities. As you embark on this journey, I encourage you to seek out mentors, build a strong support network, and never stop learning and growing. Education and coaching are dynamic and ever-evolving fields, so staying curious, open-minded, and adaptable is key to your success. Remember to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and cultivate a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout and maintain your well-being. Most importantly, believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and never underestimate the power of your influence in shaping the minds and hearts of those you serve. Your passion, dedication, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will be your greatest strengths as you embark on this rewarding and impactful career path.

Q: What are your go-to strategies for maintaining sanity and balance?
JBN: My go-to strategies for maintaining sanity and harmony revolve around prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness. In the midst of a busy schedule and multiple responsibilities, I make it a priority to carve out time for activities that recharge my energy and nourish my soul. This may include starting my day with prayer and meditation, gratitude journaling, taking short breaks throughout the day to walk, stretch, and breathe, or spending quality time with loved ones. Setting boundaries is also crucial for maintaining harmony, whether it's learning to say no to additional commitments, delegating tasks, or unplugging from technology to disconnect and recharge. Practicing mindfulness and being present in the moment helps me stay grounded and focused, reducing stress and increasing my overall sense of well-being. By incorporating these strategies into my daily routine, I am able to sustain my energy, productivity, and mental clarity, allowing me to navigate challenges with grace and resilience. 

Q: What is one word of advice you can offer to young women who want to reach your level of success?
JBN: The one word of advice I would offer to young women who aspire to reach my level of success is "resilience." In any journey toward achieving, one's goals and making an impact, resilience is a powerful and essential quality that can help navigate challenges, setbacks, and obstacles along the way. It's important to remember that success is not always a straight path, and there will be moments of difficulty and adversity. Being resilient means having the strength to bounce back from setbacks, the determination to keep moving forward despite obstacles, and the faith in oneself to overcome any hurdles that come your way. Cultivating resilience involves staying true to your values, being adaptable to change, seeking support when needed, and maintaining a positive mindset even in the face of adversity. By embodying resilience in your pursuit of success, you can weather any storm, grow stronger through challenges, and ultimately, achieve your goals with perseverance and determination.

Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments of your career?
JBN: One of the most memorable moments of my career was the pride and joy I felt when I was able to present my two sons with their high school diplomas. As an educator and parent, witnessing the culmination of my sons' educational journeys and being able to share that milestone with them was truly a moment of immense pride and fulfillment. Seeing them walk across the stage, receive their diplomas, and embark on the next chapter of their lives filled me with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. It was a reminder of the impact we can have on the lives of our children and students, the importance of education in shaping their future, and the joy that comes from seeing them succeed and thrive. This moment will always hold a special place in my heart and serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact we can have as educators and parents in shaping the lives of the next generation.

Q: At the start of your career, what do you wish you had known? 
JBN: Looking back at the start of my career, one thing I wish I had known is the importance of prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and striving for work-life harmony. As a wife, mom, and leader in the community, I often found myself juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, which at times led to feelings of burnout and overwhelm. I wish I had understood earlier on the significance of taking care of my own well-being, managing my time effectively, and creating space for personal fulfillment outside of work. By recognizing the need to prioritize self-care and set boundaries, I could have better managed stress, avoided burnout, and maintained a healthier balance between my professional and personal life. This realization has led me to adopt a more mindful and intentional approach to my career and life, ensuring that I nurture my own well-being while fulfilling my roles as a dedicated wife, loving mom, and impactful leader in the community.

Q: Which woman inspires you and why? 
JBN: First and foremost, one woman who truly inspires me is my mom, Carrie Smalls. She has been a constant source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love throughout my life. My mom embodies resilience, compassion, and grace in everything she does, and her unwavering support has been a guiding light in my own journey. From her perseverance in facing challenges to her nurturing spirit and dedication to her family, my mom's example has shaped my values, aspirations, and approach to life. Her belief in me and her encouragement to pursue my dreams have been a constant source of inspiration and motivation.

Additionally, Maya Angelou is another woman who has deeply inspired me. Her words, wisdom, and powerful voice have touched the hearts of millions around the world. Maya Angelou's resilience in overcoming adversity, her commitment to social justice, and her ability to uplift and empower others through her writing and activism are truly remarkable. She exemplifies the strength and courage to speak truth to power, the compassion to connect with others on a profound level, and the wisdom to inspire positive change in the world. Maya Angelou's legacy continues to inspire me to use my voice, talents, and experiences to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and contribute to a more just and equitable society.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue their dream and start a business? 
JBN: To young women who aspire to pursue their dreams and start a business, my advice would be to embrace your vision, passion, and purpose with courage and determination. Starting a business can be a challenging, yet rewarding, journey that requires resilience, creativity, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Here are some pieces of advice that I would offer to young women embarking on this entrepreneurial path:



1. Believe in Yourself: Trust in your abilities, ideas, and potential to create something meaningful and impactful. Self-belief is a powerful force that will fuel your passion and drive your success.


2. Develop a Clear Vision: Define your goals, mission, and values for your business. Having a clear vision will guide your decisions, actions, and strategies as you build and grow your venture.


3. Seek Mentorship and Support: Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and a supportive network of like-minded individuals who can offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement along the way.


4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Understand that setbacks and failures are part of the entrepreneurial journey. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and keep moving forward with resilience and persistence.


5. Stay Curious and Keep Learning: Continuously seek knowledge, skills, and experiences that will help you evolve and innovate in your business. Be open to new ideas, trends, and opportunities for growth.


6. Prioritize Self-Care and Well-Being: Remember to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally as you navigate the demands of starting and running a business. Balancing work with self-care is essential for sustained success and fulfillment.


   

By following these pieces of advice and staying true to your passion and purpose, you can embark on a journey of entrepreneurship with confidence, resilience, and a commitment to realizing your dreams.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
JBN: To young women who aspire to succeed in the workplace, I would offer the following advice:



1. Be Confident in Yourself: Believe in your skills, abilities, and unique strengths. Confidence is key to overcoming challenges, taking on new opportunities, and making your voice heard in the workplace.


2. Continuously Learn and Grow: Stay curious, seek out learning opportunities, and invest in your professional development. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and never stop expanding your knowledge and skills.


3. Build Strong Relationships: Cultivate meaningful connections with colleagues, mentors, and allies in the workplace. Networking and building relationships can provide support, guidance, and opportunities for advancement.


4. Advocate for Yourself: Don't be afraid to speak up, ask for what you deserve, and advocate for your ideas and contributions. Assertiveness and self-advocacy are important skills for success in the workplace.


5. Embrace Diversity and Inclusion: Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace by respecting and valuing the perspectives, experiences, and contributions of all individuals. Embrace diversity as a strength that fosters innovation and collaboration.


6. Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Strive to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Setting boundaries, taking breaks, and prioritizing self-care are essential for sustaining your well-being and long-term success.


7. Stay Resilient and Persistent: Recognize that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the journey to success. Stay resilient, learn from failures, and keep pushing forward with determination and perseverance.



By following these pieces of advice and staying true to your values, ambitions, and aspirations, young women can navigate the workplace with confidence, resilience, and a commitment to achieving their full potential and making a positive impact in their careers.

Q: After high school, where did you feel your career path would take you? 
JBN: After high school, I embarked on a transformative journey that set the stage for my career path to unfold in unexpected and rewarding ways. Becoming an Army officer while in college was a pivotal moment that shaped my perspective on leadership, service, and making a difference in the lives of others. At that time, I felt a strong sense of duty, commitment, and purpose as I embraced the values of servant leadership and dedicated myself to serving my country and community.

While the path ahead may have seemed unclear at times, my experiences in the military instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, resilience, and a passion for leadership that would guide me in my future endeavors. I discovered the power of leading by example, putting the needs of others first, and fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork to achieve shared goals. These principles of servant leadership became the foundation upon which I built my career, guiding me toward opportunities where I could make a meaningful impact, inspire others, and create positive change.

Looking back, I am grateful for the formative experiences that shaped my career path and led me to embrace the values of servant leadership in all aspects of my life. My journey from high school to becoming an Army officer laid the groundwork for a career focused on empowering and serving others, and I am excited to continue this mission of leadership, service, and making a difference in the lives of those around me.

Q: Can you tell us how you manage your work life balance?
JBN: Managing work-life harmony has been an ongoing journey for me, especially as I navigated the demands of a dynamic career, military service, marriage, raising two sons, pursuing degrees, and holding various positions in the community and school settings. Throughout this multifaceted journey, I have learned to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and maintain open communication with my family to ensure a healthy balance between work and personal life.

One key strategy that has helped me manage work-life harmony is effective time management. By establishing a structured schedule, prioritizing tasks, and utilizing tools such as calendars and to-do lists, I am able to allocate time for both work commitments and family responsibilities. This approach has allowed me to meet deadlines, fulfill obligations, and create space for quality time with my loved ones.

Additionally, I have embraced the importance of self-care as a crucial component of maintaining work-life harmony. Whether it's engaging in exercise, mindfulness practices, or hobbies that bring me joy, taking care of my physical, mental, and emotional well-being has been essential in sustaining my energy and resilience amidst a busy schedule.

Furthermore, open communication with my spouse and children has played a significant role in achieving work-life harmony. By discussing priorities, sharing responsibilities, and supporting each other's goals and commitments, we have created a supportive environment that fosters mutual understanding and cooperation.


Q: What's your advice for women in male-dominated fields?
JBN: My advice for women in male-dominated fields is to embrace your unique strengths, stand tall in your capabilities, and confidently navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with breaking barriers and paving the way for gender diversity and inclusion. Here are some key pieces of advice that I would offer to women navigating male-dominated fields:



1. Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your skills, talents, and expertise. Trust in your abilities and know that you bring valuable perspectives and contributions to the table.


2. Seek Support and Allies: Build a strong network of mentors, sponsors, and allies who can offer guidance, advocacy, and support as you navigate your career path. Surround yourself with individuals who believe in your potential and champion your success.


3. Advocate for Yourself: Don't be afraid to speak up, assert your worth, and advocate for your ideas and contributions. Your voice matters and asserting yourself in a male-dominated environment can help you gain visibility and recognition for your achievements.


4. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay curious, seek out opportunities for growth and development, and continuously expand your knowledge and skills. Investing in your professional development will not only enhance your expertise, but also boost your confidence and credibility in your field.


5. Foster Relationships and Collaboration: Build strong relationships with colleagues, peers, and industry professionals, regardless of gender. Collaborating with others, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.


6. Be a Trailblazer and Role Model: As a woman in a male-dominated field, you have the opportunity to inspire and empower other women to pursue their aspirations and break barriers. Lead by example, share your experiences, and advocate for gender equality and diversity in your industry.



By embracing these pieces of advice and staying true to your values, aspirations, and ambitions, women in male-dominated fields can navigate their career paths with confidence, resilience, and a commitment to achieving their full potential and driving positive change in their respective industries.
 

Eight Things About DR. JA’NET BISHOP-NESBIT, Ed.D, CPEC

1. What’s your favorite thing to do in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy engaging in activities that help me unwind, recharge, and nourish my mind, body, and soul. One of my favorite things to do is to immerse myself in nature, whether it's going to a park, taking a leisurely walk on the beach, or simply spending time in a tranquil space. Being surrounded by the beauty of the natural world allows me to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, find moments of peace and serenity, and reconnect with myself on a deeper level.

I also find joy in reading books across various genres, from inspirational non-fiction to captivating fiction novels. Reading not only stimulates my imagination and intellect, but also provides a welcome escape into different worlds and perspectives. It's a wonderful way for me to relax, learn, and expand my horizons in the comfort of my own space.

Moreover, I have a passion for cooking and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Cooking allows me to express my creativity, indulge my taste buds, and share delicious meals with loved ones. Whether I'm trying out a new culinary technique or preparing a favorite family recipe, the process of cooking brings me joy and satisfaction.

Lastly, spending quality time with my family and friends is an essential part of my free time activities. Whether it's engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing laughter and memories, or embarking on adventures together, the bond I share with my loved ones is a source of happiness and fulfillment that enriches my life.


2. Among your friends, what are you best known for?

Among my friends, I am best known for being a reliable and supportive presence in their lives. I strive to be a good listener, and a source of encouragement for those around me. Whether it's offering a listening ear during challenging times, celebrating their achievements, or simply being there to share laughter and create memories, I value the connections I have with my friends and cherish the role I play in their lives.

Additionally, my friends often recognize me for my passion of exploring new ideas and experiences.
My friends appreciate my enthusiasm for trying new things and my ability to inspire them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new possibilities.

Furthermore, I am known for my dedication to fostering a sense of community and connection among my friends. I believe in the power of building strong, meaningful relationships and creating a supportive network where we can uplift each other. Whether it's facilitating meaningful conversations, or simply being a source of positivity and warmth, I strive to cultivate a sense of belonging and camaraderie among my friends.

3. What TV shows did you watch when you were a kid?

Growing up, one of the TV shows that left a lasting impression on me was the iconic series "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Set in the bustling newsroom of a Minneapolis television station, the show followed the independent and career-driven Mary Richards as she navigated the challenges and triumphs of her professional and personal life. I was captivated by Mary's wit, resilience, and trailblazing spirit as she broke barriers for women in the workplace and redefined traditional gender roles on television.

Watching "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" not only entertained me, but also inspired me to dream big, pursue my ambitions, and challenge societal expectations. The strong female characters, witty humor, and poignant storytelling of the show resonated with me and left a lasting impact on my perspective on gender equality, empowerment, and the importance of representation in the workplace.

As a kid, another TV show that made a significant impact on me was the groundbreaking African American sitcom "Good Times" which aired in the 1970s. Set in a public housing project on the South Side of Chicago (I grew up in inner city New York), the show depicted the struggles and triumphs of the Evans family as they navigated the challenges of urban life with resilience, humor, and love. "Good Times" tackled important social issues such as poverty, racism, and inequality, while also celebrating the strength, humor, and close-knit bond of the African American community.


4. If you unexpectedly won $10,000, what would you spend it on?

If I unexpectedly won $10,000, I would approach the windfall with a mix of practicality, generosity, and a touch of indulgence. Here's how I would allocate the funds:



1. Invest in Personal Development: I would set aside a portion of the money to invest in my personal development, whether it's enrolling in a professional development course, attending a workshop or conference, or purchasing books and resources that can help me expand my knowledge and skills in areas of interest.


2. Donate to a Cause: Giving back to the community is important to me, so I would allocate a portion of the funds to donate to a charitable cause or organization that is making a positive impact in the world. Supporting causes that align with my values and priorities allows me to contribute to meaningful change and help those in need.


3. Treat Myself and Loved Ones: I would set aside a portion of the money to treat myself and my loved ones to a special experience or gift. Whether it's a weekend getaway, a nice dinner at a favorite restaurant, or a thoughtful gift for a family member or friend, taking the time to enjoy and celebrate life's moments is important for overall well-being.


4. Save for the Future: It's always wise to prioritize financial stability and plan for the future. I would allocate a portion of the funds to bolster my savings or invest in a long-term financial goal, such as retirement planning, emergency funds, or other financial priorities that can provide security and peace of mind.

5. Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I am definitely a morning person through and through. There is something about the quiet moments of the early morning when the world is still waking up, and the possibilities of a new day stretch out before me. I find that starting my day with the soft light of dawn, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and a moment of tranquility sets a positive tone for the hours ahead. Being a morning person allows me to tap into a sense of clarity, focus, and productivity that comes with the fresh start of each day.

6. Do you read reviews, or just go with your gut?
I read reviews for vacations, resorts, and sometimes new restaurants.

7. What was your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject was Language Arts.

8. Cake or pie?
Chocolate cake.