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

Hi Lakisha, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
The most important thing I have done as a parent, which has had the most impact on my children, is finding my identity. In fact, to be more specific, to find my divine identity. Finding my purpose in life and learning to live in that purpose has allowed me to get closer to God, be more diligent in helping others, and learn how to care for myself.

In these past few years, my children have gotten to see a stronger, wiser, more controlled, happier version of me. I accept ME! I am comfortable in my skin – my flaws, imperfections, and all. A few years ago, I shaved my head because I was sick of trying to hide my alopecia. Liberating myself from that stronghold opened my eyes to seeing so much about who I am as a person. I recently tried growing my hair back and my daughter, said, “Mom, I like it short. I like how you embrace your “boldness in your baldness”. Yesssss! A win is a win!

I am excited to show up for them even when things are not at their best. I seek to always be present WITH them, in their growth, ups, downs, choices, etc. And I believe that being more transparent and open with them, first, builds better communication, second strengthens our relationship, and third teaches them resilience and faith – that life comes with a lot of bumps and bruises, but with God, all things work out for your good.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In the past, I struggled with self-confidence, self-awareness, and self-motivation. I lacked self-understanding and courage, which hindered my ability to recognize my true potential in life and the lives of others. I didn’t trust myself, and I was afraid to be myself, always trying to fit in and withholding permission to be bold in my strengths. Suffice it to say, I was severely stuck.

In recent years, I’ve learned to push through my fears, flaws, and imperfections, as well as handle my triggers better than before. I’ve come to embrace my UnStuck self! I created the #UnStuckWoman movement as a means of inspiring and motivating myself.

Today, I can confidently state that I am a solutionist, a woman after God’s own heart, comfortable in my skin, more courageous and confident, and I truly love myself!

And so, I write about it!

Writing serves as a therapeutic release for me – a place where I can truly be myself and free from judgment. Writing allows me to express myself in any way I see fit, be it through humor, self-deprecation, or bad puns. It’s an outlet that provides me with hope, healing, and support that I need to feel UnStuck and Free!

Sharing my story of struggle and growth brings me joy, and I hope to empower other women around the world to find happiness, health, and emotional well-being in their lives.

I recently learned that “ministry is a matter of the heart”. I of course do not see myself as someone standing in a pulpit on Sunday morning sharing the goodness of God – type of minister. But, I am a part of the marketplace ministry. God uses me to refresh the souls of WOMEN in need of encouragement. He uses my self and spiritual growth to help share a kind word and good character whether it is through my blog, my books, speaking engagements, vendor opportunities, or a day out grocery shopping.

I never meet strangers, only people I am yet to become acquainted with. It’s my people magic! I love sharing stories, and bringing joy and HOPE into the lives of others.

My journey has been far from easy. However, I have always found a way to smile after enduring every storm.

People often liken me to a Phoenix, emerging stronger from even the hottest of fires.

While I would like to take credit for it all, the truth is that it’s a result of the grace of God over my life. With His favor, I find the courage to face every challenge and the strength to carry on.

It is through Him that I have become a born fighter, and I am grateful for the peace and joy that He brings to my life.

And I want that same peace for all women! We deserve it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My bestie is what I call a “fun goddess”. She is retired military and unlike me has seen the world. Yet she is the most down-to-earth, all about life and living it, person you could ever meet!

I am not originally from Nashville, but I do have a history in tourism and marketing, so, after putting those skills into play, I’d say that our top 5 things to do while visiting the beautiful city of Nashville are:

1. Dining
2. Wining
3. Shopping
4. Dancing
5. Sight Seeing

In that light, I think it would be a must that we visit the Fatherland District; it just sounds amazing! Also, the kid in me would love to stop at the Opryland Mall (again). And because we are the down south kind of girls who don’t mind getting our feet dusty, the Nashville flea market sounds like a lot of fun!

We’re also a couple of girls that love WINE! Nashville has a few interesting places to cater to our taste buds, so instead of choosing one, I would plan a “wine around town” for us! Allowing visiting several locations, and getting the full wine down!

Last but certainly not least, because there is only so much a couple of classics (70’s babies) like ourselves could do in such a short time, it’s a must that we take a tour on the Old Town Trolley.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to shout out my husband Mario and children, MJ, Kaici, and Kaidin, because they are the driving force behind everything I endeavor to do in life. My brother Laforenzo is the best accountability partner/straight shooter – no chaser, a girl could ask for. My bestie Vita, loves, supports, and shows up unconditionally. I mean her show-up game is the best. And then last but not least, my MOM, Anna. She has dementia and is no longer able to be there for me physically, but I know that the GRACE on my life, the mantle that I carry, is evidence of God’s favor over my mother. Her spirit, her fight, her smile prevails in me!

Website: www.anunstuckwoman.com

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

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

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

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/AnUnstuckWoman/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.