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

Hi Nicki, what matters most to you?
Integrity is the most important value to me because I believe it is the bedrock of our character. To me, integrity means doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching. It’s about doing what you said you would – even when you have to make unpopular or inconvenient decisions. When you have integrity, people trust you. They know you are dependable and view you as honest. These are all things I prioritize in both business and in life. But integrity is the most important to me because it’s like the glue that holds everything else together.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a speaker and consultant who helps people navigate diverse environments with confidence and understanding. I’m widely known for my radical candor and ability to provide practical, relevant advice to my listeners – it is what sets me apart from others. I am most proud of my ability to think and act congruently. I do what I said I would – even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular (which happens quite often in my line of work).

People often ask me how I got to where I am today. My short answer is – a lot of late nights, a lot of trial-and-error, and LOTS of googling. But for me, it’s not as much about “how” I got to where I am, but *who* has helped me get there. The people in my life have been instrumental to both my development and success, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without each and every one of them.

Entrepreneurship is really just a fancy work for starting from scratch. You are literally building the plane as you fly it, which requires a unique set of skills. My biggest lesson has been around communication. Good communication can prevent or fix almost anything. But when you avoid it (namely difficult conversations), you trade short term discomfort for long-term disfunction. This has been a tough lesson, and as most lessons do, it repeated itself countless times until I actually learned from it.

People often hire me to talk about how to create a more welcoming and inclusive culture. And I do that because it’s my passion. But I want people to know that culture is about more than just an event or a program – it’s about everything in between. I want people to think of me as more than just a speaker; I want to be be known as a thought-partner who provides consistent guidance and support. Someone who transforms the way people think about things, and more importantly, a person that inspires others to take action.

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?
For a weekend trip, I’d definitely recommend an airbnb over any hotel – there are so many good options in Dallas and surrounding areas. Dallas is literally the food capital of the world so options are endless. For brunch, The Ranch in Los Colinas is a MUST. Terry Black Barbecue is a Texas staple that I’d also recommend. MC snow cones has so many flavors that I love, and is a great way to cap off the night.

Activity wise – it all depends on what you like to do. Deep elm has a good vibe and there is a ton of options over there. I love crafting, and would personally recommend Upstairs Circus for a fun afternoon activity. I also love dancing, and would recommend Diva Dance North Dallas for a Saturday afternoon drop in class. The vibes are emaculate and the community is unmatched!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Pivoting in business is never easy. While I learned many things from the dissolution of my first business, the biggest thing I took away was how grateful I am for the community of people around me. While I am a self-taught entrepreneur and speaker, I am definitely community-made, and there are a few people that deserve credit and recognition in my story.

First shoutout goes to fellow speakers and consultants in my industry – Hailey, Dar, Cassie, and Q – ya’ll are the real MVPs. Thank you for hyping me up, for keeping me grounded, and for helping me see my fullest potential.

Next shoutout is for all the clients who have hired me. Thank you for trusting in me, for believing in me, and for choosing me. I will forever be grateful that you took a chance on me and I am sos proud of what we’ve been able to do together.

Special shoutout to my husband Adam, my family, and close friends who continue to have unwavering support for me, specifically as I start this next chapter. I would not be where I am today without of guidance and support of each one of you.

Website: www.nickijoiner.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatssoniickki/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickirowlett/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicki.rowlett.3/

Image Credits
True Love Photography Studio Nude Photography Hidden Images Photography

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