Meet Ciara Stockeland

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

Hi Ciara, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in business is this: know your numbers, and understand the story they’re telling you.

So often, I see business owners overcomplicate their operations—adding new product lines, new staff, new locations—in the hopes of growing. But real growth comes from knowledge and simplicity.

When you truly understand your numbers, they become your greatest guide. They tell you what’s working, what’s not, where to invest your time, and where your money should go. It’s not about chasing the latest trend or stocking what’s “shiny”—it’s about buying smart and with purpose.

Let your numbers drive your decisions, streamline your inventory, and protect your profitability. When you simplify down to what’s truly working, you give yourself the margin to grow—pay your team, pay yourself, and make smart financial moves with confidence.

What should our readers know about your business?
Like many entrepreneurs, my journey began with a brick-and-mortar store I loved—a high-end baby boutique. That passion quickly grew into something bigger when I opened a second, wildly profitable overstock concept. I combined both ideas to create a unique high-end overstock boutique and successfully franchised it, building a seven-figure brand with all the markers of “success”—until it all came crashing down. A legal battle with franchisees led to losing everything, including my home. But in the ashes of that experience, I discovered the one thing every business must have to survive: a strong balance sheet. I learned the hard way that top-line revenue means nothing without true profitability. That’s when I created the Profit Roadmap—a simple, accessible framework that helps inventory-based business owners understand their numbers, pay off debt, and build lasting financial health. This isn’t just business for me—it’s personal. I’ve walked through the fire, and now I help others find their way out. Watching hundreds of business owners gain clarity and financial freedom through my method is the heart behind everything I do.

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?
If a friend came to visit me in town, the first thing I’d do is take them to explore one of our charming downtown areas—either Murfreesboro or Franklin. I love supporting local businesses and giving back to the community, especially in places that carry so much character and heart. We’d definitely stop by Onyx and Alabaster in downtown Franklin—it’s one of my favorite coffee shops with the most gorgeous vibe, perfect for a good latte and even better conversation. I’d also want to spend time outside, going on a long walk with my friend and my dog, soaking in the fresh air, and being intentional with our time together. There’s something so special about connecting in nature and just enjoying God’s creation side by side.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One person who truly transformed the way I view my numbers is my mentor, Larry. He took the time to sit down with me, teaching me what my numbers really meant. He welcomed my questions, encouraged me to be vulnerable, and never hesitated to offer his business advice. Larry didn’t just see me for where I was; he helped me leverage my community and his knowledge to move forward. His guidance became the foundation of everything I know today, and at a crucial point in my business career, he was the steady hand I needed.

Equally inspiring are the men and women in business who have come into my life and allowed me the honor of coaching them through some of the most pivotal moments in their careers. Watching them succeed—seeing them pay off hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt and develop life-changing financial habits—reminds me every day why I do what I do. Their success is my driving force.

Website: https://www.ciarastockeland.com/what-people-say

Instagram: @inventorygenius

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inventorygenius

Other: Podcast: https://www.ciarastockeland.com/podcasts/the-inventory-genius-podcast