Everyday, Melony Armstrong demonstrates what a leader is. Thousands of low-income families are housed, clothed and fed not because she sought out government assistance for them, rather, She is responsible for breaking down regulatory walls that prohibited anyone from practicing hair braiding without a cosmetology license in her state of MS. Now, in the state of Mississippi alone over 7,000 women  are now registered hair braiders and first time business owners. Her Salon, Naturally Speaking, is the first licensed hair braiding salon in the state of MS. She has traveled across the nation and abroad telling her story.  1. She Successfully lobbied the State of Mississippi and fought to free would be hair braiders from needing to acquire a cosmetology license to practice their craft.2. She has an award winning documentary “Locked Out” A Mississippi Success Story produced by The Charles Koch Institute.3. She has testified before Congress.4. She was Featured in an article in Essence magazine October 2019.5. She has Appeared on the John Stossel show in New York City.6. She has a Featured publication, “The Power of One Entrepreneur”7. Named as a Social Entrepreneur in Charles Koch most recent book, “Believe in People”.8. One of five women across the world Shopify featured in a documentary Beauty Mark.9. She has taught countless women and you She has taught and graduated countless young women and girls how to braid at her school Armstrong Braiding Academy.10. Most recently, she is an Executive Producer of the award winning Freedom Hair Movie, the Melony Armstrong Story, currently being screened in Film Festivals. Melony is married  to Pastor Kevin Armstrong. Together they pastor The Kings Dome Worship Center Church, they have four sons, one deceased and three grandsons. Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Letisha Jackson is the CEO of Jackson Insurance Group as well as a Speaker, Entrepreneur, and Woman on a Mission. Letisha knows what it’s like to go from fighting for a $1 Cheeseburger to producing a successful insurance business and experiencing great success.Fast forward to now, Letisha is one of the most influential women in the insurance industry. She has won countless awards (Influential Women, Top 40 under 40, Top Insurance Agency, Top Producer, Jim Ingram Leadership, and MORE), proving that success do not have to inherit money from anyone to get a head start. As a multi-million income producing agency, Letisha is paving the way for many new insurance agents and other women entrepreneurs with her online coaching and She Rise Chronicles Podcast.Letisha has even recently started a church with her husband Darnell, where she is also a bible class teacher, sings on the praise team, helps with worship dance ministry at her church, and started a Women Ministry `` Women of Redemption" where women can come together into a NO JUDGEMENT zone to get spiritual and natural guidance for their needs. This power couple believes that "health" is not only physical but also spiritual.Letisha and Darnell have been married for 11 years and have 4 children, Erryn, Jamarcus, Tamya, and Taylor.Letisha is an inspiration and a community activist.  She truly believes that we are BETTER TOGETHERConnect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Annette "Nettie" Tomlinson is a multi-talented individual with a passion for empowering others. A gifted writer, speaker, and local photographer, Nettie's creative spirit shines through her various endeavors. In addition to her creative pursuits, she also excels in the realm of business, having achieved the esteemed title of SuperStar Director with Scentsy, a testament to her dedication and leadership skills.Driven by her passion for helping others succeed, Nettie finds fulfillment in her role as an Independent Consultant, where she guides and supports individuals on their journey towards achieving their goals.Prior to her success in the business world, Nettie dedicated 29 years of her life to serving at the Tupelo Children's Mansion, where she held the esteemed position of Director of Sponsor Relations. Her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others is evident in her long-standing tenure at the organization.Nettie is a proud graduate of Gateway College of Evangelism, where she honed her skills and developed a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Alongside her husband Robert and their children, Nettie resides in Tupelo, Mississippi, where she continues to inspire and uplift those around her with her passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to making a difference.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Judge Staci Shumpert Bevill is the esteemed incumbent of Lee County Court, Post 1, bringing over two decades of legal expertise to the bench since her election in 2019. Her tenure as judge is marked by a steadfast commitment to the youth court division, a role that earned her the distinction of being Lee County's inaugural full-time youth court judge. Collaborating closely with her dedicated team, Judge Bevill has propelled Lee County Youth Court to prominence as a benchmark institution, particularly lauded for its efficacy in cases involving abuse and neglect, setting a standard for court family defense teams.Beyond her judicial duties, Judge Bevill assumes leadership roles in shaping legal frameworks, serving as the Chairman of the Commission for Uniform Youth Court Systems and Procedures, and contributing her insights on the Youth Court Rules Committee. Her journey to the bench began with academic distinction, having been a proactive figure in student governance during her time at Northeast Mississippi Community College. She continued to excel academically, earning the prestigious John C. Stennis Scholarship at Mississippi State University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. Her pursuit of legal education culminated in the attainment of her juris doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Law.Outside the courtroom, Judge Bevill finds solace and fulfillment in her family and community. Together with her husband and daughter, Blake, she resides in the historic Richmond community of southern Lee County, stewarding a familial farm that spans eight generations. Her devotion to family extends to her son, Tanner, who is married to John Peugh. Actively involved in their local church, Auburn Baptist Church, Judge Bevill shares her wisdom as an adult Sunday school teacher and actively contributes to the mission team.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Allison Smith, originally from Belmont and currently residing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has led a remarkable journey of personal and professional growth. Her roots trace back to Belmont High School, where she graduated with honors, and Northeast Mississippi Community College, earning a Radiology Technology Degree. Furthering her education at the Cardiac and Vascular Institute of Ultrasound in Mobile, AL, Allison dedicated 8 years to the field of cardiac and vascular ultrasound.Not only did Allison excel in her career, but she also embarked on an entrepreneurial path by founding Center Stage dance studio in Belmont. Her leadership impacted the lives of countless young girls, running the studio successfully for four years. Subsequently, Allison, alongside her sister Heather Edmondson, acquired the Belmont Medical Clinic. She navigated the business through the challenges of the COVID era, showcasing her resilience and adaptability.In 2021, Allison transitioned to a new chapter as a stay-at-home mom for her son, Isaac. Despite finding joy in motherhood, her ambitious spirit sought additional avenues. At six months old, Isaac became the catalyst for Allison's journey into life coaching, a pursuit she considers her most valuable education. At 12 months, when Isaac displayed signs of autism, Allison delved into holistic approaches, tirelessly researching and implementing dietary and detox changes. Witnessing Isaac's significant improvements, Allison extended her knowledge to other parents facing similar challenges.Out of her desire to help, War On Autism was born. As a one-on-one diet and detox coach, Allison provided invaluable support to parents seeking holistic solutions for their children. Recognizing the financial barriers some faced, she expanded her reach through free platforms like TikTok and her podcast, offering education and encouragement.To deepen her expertise, Allison pursued certification in naturopathy, further empowering her to assist parents worldwide. Through War On Autism, Allison has positively impacted the lives of numerous children across the globe, from Australia and the UK to India, Africa, Afghanistan, and throughout North America. Her dedication to holistic healing and commitment to accessible support truly make her a beacon of hope for families navigating similar journeys.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Gabrielle Cooper, a Tupelo native, is a distinguished graduate from the University of Mississippi with degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Spanish. With a remarkable career, Gabrielle has held the position of VP at Renasant Bank in Private Banking, showcasing her expertise and dedication.Beyond her professional achievements, Gabrielle is deeply involved in community service. She has served on various boards, including Good Samaritan Health Services, Kiwanis Club, GumTree Museum of Art, and is an active member of organizations such as DAR, Mutual Culture Club, Hoe & Hope Garden Club, and Orchard Church.Gabrielle’s commitment to philanthropy extends to her volunteer work at the Tupelo Lee Humane Society, where she contributes her time and compassion.On the personal front, Gabrielle is happily married to Rick and is a devoted mother to her daughter, Alexandria Wallace, and step-daughter, Kelly Cooper. Gabrielle’s multifaceted life reflects her dedication to both professional excellence and community betterment.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode andSupport the showSupport the Show.

Barbara's journey began at Tupelo High School in 1978, bursting with excitement for the college experience that awaited her. The allure of the University of Alabama proved irresistible, marking the start of a vibrant chapter filled with youthful exuberance. Although she took a detour from Ole Miss in her senior year, Barbara's adventurous spirit led her to the enchanting streets of San Francisco. Here, she found herself at I. Magnin, a posh department store, where she immersed herself in the world of Hermes and couture gowns, captivated by the intersection of design and pop culture.Life in San Francisco was a beautiful tapestry, but expenses prompted Barbara to get creative. She supplemented her income by exploring estate sales on Fridays, venturing to the Marin County flea market on Sundays, and turning her treasures into a livelihood. In those days, couture vintage was her constant companion, and Barbara became a magnet for uncovering fabulous finds.In 1983, the Southern charm beckoned, and Barbara landed in Biloxi. Here, she realized her dream by opening The Roadside Attraction, a delightful vintage shop. The passion for treasure hunting ran in her blood, inherited from her mother, an antiques dealer. The thrill of the hunt became second nature to Barbara.A new chapter unfolded as Barbara headed to Santa Rosa, CA, becoming one of the first in-house designers for Sears. Her expertise flourished, contributing to the display of the groundbreaking Garanimals children's line. Yet, Tupelo called her back in 1988. Fueled by a friend's suggestion, Barbara opened The Main Attraction, a unique shop that quickly became an integral part of the community.Immersing herself in community service, Barbara volunteered with Gumtree Art Festival, co-chaired the Gumtree Songwriters Festival with Bob Ray, and dedicated her time to Oleput, Tupelo Film Festival, and the Elvis Festival. Fashion shows, Charity Ball dressings, and fundraisers for the Tupelo Lee Humane Society became her way of giving back. Through it all, her unwavering love for art and design remained a constant force.The retail landscape evolved, presenting challenges with the rise of the Internet, the impact of COVID-19, and the escalating costs of fair-trade goods. Barbara's brick-and-mortar store transformed, no longer showcasing vintage treasures but goods with a conscience, consciously avoiding products made in China or Bangladesh. Although uncertainties loom, Barbara remains resilient, navigating the changing times and hoping for a reversal in the trend of internet shopping.At the age of 63, Barbara's indomitable spirit continues to shine. A senior at the University of Mississippi, she's set to graduate in May 2024. Reflecting on her earlier years when a lack of a degree hindered job opportunities, Barbara now embraces the pursuit of knowledge, ensuring she holds a diploma should the retail path take unexpected turns. With no crystal ball to predict the future, Barbara forges ahead, hanging in there, and proving that it's never too late for a new beginning.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episSupport the Show.

Becky Weatherford stands as the driving force behind a transformative initiative in Tupelo, Mississippi, as the Founding Executive Director of Talbot House Sober Living for Women, Talbot House Lawndale, Talbot House Bakery & Café, and Talbot House Production Kitchen. However, her journey toward this impactful role is marked by not just professional dedication, but a deeply personal connection to the realm of addiction and recovery.Before committing her full-time efforts to Talbot House, Becky's path was shaped by a profound commitment to aiding others in their journey to recovery. As a Certified Peer Support Specialist with Lifecore Addiction Services, she provided invaluable addiction recovery support to female residential clients. In this capacity, Becky became a beacon of hope, drawing from her own experiences as a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder.Born and raised in Tupelo, Becky's roots run deep in the community she serves. Her personal journey through recovery has instilled in her a profound understanding of the challenges individuals face, fostering a passion for making a difference. Beyond the titles and roles, Becky's commitment to helping others stems from her own triumph over adversity.Becky's dedication extends beyond her professional endeavors. She is a proud mother of three and a grandmother of two, a testament to the transformative power of recovery on familial bonds. In her roles at Talbot House, she has not only created safe havens for those on the path to recovery but has also established tangible pathways to empowerment.Talbot House Sober Living for Women, Talbot House Lawndale, Talbot House Bakery & Café, and Talbot House Production Kitchen stand as living testimonies to Becky's resilience, vision, and commitment to giving back. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration for others grappling with the challenges of addiction. Through her leadership, Tupelo has become a community where the journey from struggle to recovery is not walked alone but hand in hand, guided by the compassionate spirit of someone who has been there and emerged stronger.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please be sure to let them know or leave us a 5-star review!Support the showSupport the Show.

Juanita Gambrell Floyd is currently employed by CREATE Foundation as Senior Vice-President of Finance and Administration.  Her responsibilities include managing all financial aspects of the operation of the Foundation and the oversight of assets.  She has been employed with the Foundation for over 38 years.  On her 20th Anniversary with CREATE, the Foundation established the Bernice Gambrell Endowment Fund in the amount of $10,000 in honor of her mother and her 20 years of employment.She is active in community affairs and serves on several Boards.   In February 2020, she was extended the recognition of the Mississippi Senate for her career, inspiration, community involvement and life’s work.  In August 2019, she was selected as one of Mississippi’s Most Influential African Americans.  In January, 2016, she was highlighted on WTVA – for the Positively Mississippi segment featuring local heroes during Black History Month.  In 2008, she was honored as the Tupelo Trailblazer of the Year.Juanita is a graduate of Northeast Mississippi Community College and The University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting.  She is an active member of Jesus New Testament Holiness Church located in the Red Hill Community of Union County.  She is the daughter of the late Frank and Bernice Gambrell of the Red Hill Community.  She has one sister, Valerie; three brothers, Ray, Wade, and Frank.  She is the proud parent of three children, Tyler, Taylor and Tyra, two grandsons, Andrew and Seven, and two granddaughters, Nova and Wynter.For several years, Juanita has been an inspirational and motivational speaker.  She is very passionate about her speaking. She has spoken to various civic, social, educational and church groups.  In May 2017, she was the Commencement Speaker for Itawamba Community College and the Black History Speaker for Tupelo High School – one of the largest high schools in the state.  She has been writing monthly for over 15 years as a Community Columnist for the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.  She has co-authored a children’s book called the “Summer of 1969”. Her favorite quote (author unknown) is:  I shall not pass this way but once, therefore any good that I can do, any kindness that I can show, Let me do it now!  I shall not pass this way again!  Her favorite passage of scripture is the entire chapter of Psalms 23.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please be sure to let them know or leave us a 5-star review!Support the Show.

Amanda has spent the majority of her life in Tupelo, except for a brief period residing overseas in London. Her profound affection for her hometown is undeniable, with Tupelo's close-knit and supportive community holding a special place in her heart.As the owner and operator of Cafe 212 in downtown Tupelo, alongside her husband, Jason, Amanda is on the verge of celebrating 18 years of business success and 20 years of a strong and enduring marriage. Their combined dedication to both their cafe and each other is truly remarkable.Beyond their thriving business, Amanda and Jason have been actively engaged in numerous community events and projects focused on enhancing the quality of life in their city through the arts and entertainment. Their unwavering commitment to Tupelo's cultural growth is truly admirable.Amanda and Jason are fortunate to have the support and presence of their wonderful families living nearby. Their love for travel is beautifully balanced by a deep appreciation for the comforts of home life, particularly when spent in the company of their two beloved dogs, Oso and Biscuit.Their countryside sanctuary is a 102-year-old farmhouse with deep familial roots, originally belonging to Amanda's great-grandmother. The five-year renovation journey has transformed it into their absolute favorite place, a cherished retreat that they hold dear.Connect with Albine:Instagram: sheachievedpodcastFacebook: She Achieved Podcast with Albine BennettAlbine's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/albine.bennett/Albine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albinebennett/Albine's Free Women Entrepreneurs of Northeast Mississippi Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninbusinessnemsThanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please be sure to let them know or leave us a 5-star review!Support the Show.