It’s no secret that the younger generation is the future of our world. Whether it be politicians, doctors, engineers or even entrepreneurs, the kids are going to shape life for the generations to come. There are many pressing issues facing the younger generation and being able to create engaging activities to build stronger leaders for the future is critical for our progression as human beings. One entrepreneur who truly understands this and has incorporated it into his vision, is Kali Richardson. Kali is a powerhouse speaker and business consultant, who holds a long list of very impressive accomplishments. He is not just another motivational speaker – Kali is engaging, dynamic, and extremely relatable. After all, he’s one of the best millennial speakers of the generation. Here I sit down with him and discuss his life, career and what he hopes to bring to the world through his work.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! What is your “backstory”?
Kali: My back story is that I am just an island kid from the USVI, who learned an important skill in college that can help people all over the world by focusing on development – in order to become better versions of ourselves.
What was your key driving force to become an entrepreneur?
Kali: I wanted to monetize my skills so that I can better help my community, but also help any family financially.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company?
Kali: The most interesting thing is probably when I went to the Social Good conference in VA and was able to talk with other students who were looking to do the same thing I was doing when they graduated college, and I was able to reflect and really guide each of them while I was there.
What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?
Kali: I think because I can be relatable and I am a younger speaker there are issues that I lived through and with that the millennial generation is facing currently and Gen X is also facing that I can help guide where speaker cant since they did not deal with the social media and technology boom in their youth and young adult lives.
What are your “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became a Entrepreneur” and why.
Kali:
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PR is your friend because you need someone or be able to sell yourself.
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Marketing is important but also understanding it is more important so you are not wasting your money.
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Paperwork is a headache. Be ready to do paperwork and tax documents and track EVERYTHING.
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Not every idea will work.
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Play the long game money and building a brand doesn’t come quickly, especially when doing it alone.
How have you used your success to bring goodness to the world?
Kali: Portions of all our income go back to support the communities who need it – mainly where there isn’t grants, funds or money to buy materials or afford a speaker. So a bit of pro bono work or getting sponsorships to get materials to students and young professionals, in order to help them with the soft skills to better themselves.
In one sentence, what’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out on their journey?
Kali: Have a short term plan 0-6 months a year plan a 3 year plan and a 5 year plan all high level and from there you can figure out the details.
Thanks so much for joining us! Wishing you all the best.
If you want to learn more about Kali and his work, visit his website here.