Meet Natosha Harris | Author & Publisher
We had the good fortune of connecting with Natosha Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Natosha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I released my first book in 2018, little did I know that it would mark the beginning of my journey into entrepreneurship. Starting my own business was never part of the plan; it simply evolved from my passion for writing. What began as a side hustle quickly transformed into a full-fledged writing company, offering services ranging from resume writing to tutoring college students on APA formatting and crafting formal letters for businesses.
At the outset, I was clueless about running a business. My only certainty was the desire to write and earn from it. However, as the demand for my services grew, so did the need for me to adapt and learn on the fly. Every obstacle became an opportunity for growth, and every challenge was a chance to refine my skills and expand my business acumen.
Despite the initial uncertainty and fear, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. Building a business from scratch has been a test of resilience and determination, but seeing it thrive has made every moment worthwhile. And while I continue to learn and adjust, the experience of entrepreneurship has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, creativity, and the power of following one’s passion.
As I reflect on the path that led me here, I am grateful for the journey and excited for what the future holds. Starting my own business may not have been part of the plan, but it has become the most fulfilling chapter of my life.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Every morning, as I rise to face the day, I am reminded of life’s relentless pace. While my career path initially led me to envision a future in the healthcare field, fate had other plans in store for me. Armed with a B.S. in healthcare administration and an M.S. in psychology, I embarked on a journey that would ultimately redefine my professional trajectory.
Today, I find myself at the helm of two distinct yet harmonious ventures. As the owner and operator of A Mouthful Publishing Services, formerly known as A Mouthful Writing Services, I am dedicated to delivering excellence in every project I undertake. Simultaneously, I navigate the corporate landscape as a Project Manager in a 9-5 role, where I apply the same principles of customer service, project management, and teamwork that define my entrepreneurial endeavors.
What truly sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to positivity and authenticity. I approach every task with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to help others succeed. Building meaningful relationships is at the core of my work philosophy, as I thrive on connecting with individuals and guiding them towards achieving their goals.
One of my greatest sources of pride is the freedom to be authentically myself in any setting. Whether I’m in the boardroom or at my own business, I refuse to compromise my identity or beliefs. This authenticity not only accelerates project success but also fosters a sense of trust and camaraderie within my teams.
Yet, the road to success has not been without its challenges. There have been moments of doubt and adversity, where the temptation to quit loomed large. However, the unwavering support of my family, faith, journaling, and therapy have been my pillars of strength. As a mother, the responsibility of providing for my child serves as a powerful motivator to push through obstacles and strive for greatness.
Along the way, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about the importance of boundaries, honesty, gratitude, and resilience. Each setback has been an opportunity for growth, and each triumph a testament to the power of perseverance and authenticity.
In sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to embrace their true selves and pursue their passions with unwavering dedication. Whether I’m rocking or rolling, one thing remains constant—I am human, I am genuine, and I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When friends come to visit Memphis, TN, in the spring, I always make sure to give them a heads-up: pack for all seasons! Our weather here can be a bit unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating between winter chill and summer warmth in the blink of an eye.
One of my favorite spots to take visitors is Shelby Farms, a sprawling oasis of natural beauty right in the heart of the city. Whether it’s enjoying the breathtaking views, taking leisurely walks along the trails, or renting a small boat for a tranquil ride on the lake, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with playground areas for the kids, it’s the perfect destination for families like mine.
For those craving a taste of Memphis’s vibrant nightlife scene, Midtown is the place to be. With its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, there’s no shortage of options for food and drinks. Whether it’s catching a live band at TJ Mulligans, soaking in the sounds of the Overton Shell, or sampling delicious Southern cuisine at Lafayettes, there’s no shortage of entertainment to be found.
Downtown Memphis is another must-visit destination, offering a mix of historic charm and modern attractions. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and soak in the views of the Mississippi River, or head to the iconic Memphis Pyramid for a bird’s-eye view of the city skyline. With its array of restaurants offering everything from classic Southern fare to international cuisine, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to savor.
These are just a few of my go-to spots for showing visitors the best that Memphis has to offer in the spring. With its blend of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in the Bluff City.
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?
My journey as a professional writer began in Dallas, Texas, where I crossed paths with a mutual friend, Veronica Ratliff, known as VTheMartian/V.C.R. Together, we embarked on a blogging venture, sharing our thoughts and passions with the world. However, when Veronica moved to California to pursue her music career, I found myself at a crossroads.
Encouraged by Veronica to continue writing, I took the leap and started my own blog. Little did I know, this decision would set the stage for a series of transformative events in my life. A year into establishing my blog, I returned to my hometown of Memphis, Tennessee, with a newborn in tow and a newfound determination to leave a legacy.
It was during this time that I embarked on the journey of publishing my first book. Guided by Andrea Lofton, I navigated the world of self-publishing through Createspace, which was then merging with KDP. With the help of Ashley Jordan, a talented graphic designer, I brought my vision to life with a captivating book cover.
But my journey didn’t end there. Along the way, I crossed paths with remarkable individuals who played pivotal roles in my success. Veronica Lendhardt, a branding and marketing specialist, imparted invaluable wisdom on building a strong brand and navigating the intricacies of business. Her expertise extended beyond marketing, as she graciously lent her skills in hair, makeup, and styling for my first book signing.
I also owe a debt of gratitude to Mahiya Rose Stewart for her impeccable designs and unwavering support in bringing my books to fruition. Her creative vision breathed life into my projects, from logo designs to marketing graphics, leaving an indelible mark on my brand.
And finally, I am indebted to Luttrell Alexander, who generously shared his expertise in designing book covers during a serendipitous encounter at a Memphis library. His guidance and mentorship were instrumental in honing my craft and elevating the quality of my work.
Together, these individuals formed the backbone of my journey, each contributing their unique talents and insights to help me navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. As I reflect on how far I’ve come, I am filled with gratitude for their unwavering support and guidance. They are not just mentors and collaborators but cherished partners in my pursuit of realizing my dreams.
Website: http://www.amouthful.info/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.mouthful?igsh=MXNneHlleG5vdTJtcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/CKuhELbyh2N41cy8/?mibextid=WC7FNe
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc5E_dRTb6j1RW_BJPi3g1A
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.
