Owner of Empowered Expressions, Writer, Digital Content Producer, and Copy Editor
We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Ponder of Empowered Expressions and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Erica, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business? My thought process behind starting my own business was that I’m basically going to be doing what I already do for a living— writing, editing and blogging. I’m passionate about all three things and I’ve been doing them for years, so I wanted to expand on those activities more while building something of my own. I was a little nervous at first, but I know that it’s something I should’ve done a long time ago.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community? I believe what sets me apart is my drive to succeed and actually perfect my work, even though I’ve been doing it for so long. I literally love what I do. I’m always willing to learn something new, because I want to master my craft. Writing is something I have loved to do since I was in elementary school. To be able to do it for a living (amongst other things) is a blessing and something that makes me happy. I’m most proud of the fact that I can make things come to life with my words. I love seeing people light up when they see my work. I got to where I am professionally because of the grace of God and because of the people He has aligned me with over the years. As I stated in my previous Voyage interview, my journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. I overcame my challenges by the support of family and friends, and by staying spiritually centered. I’ve learned and truly believe that every detour got me to where I am today, and I know there’s so much more to come. When it comes to my brand, I want people to know that putting myself out there took faith and a few pushes from some great people in my corner, because I’m so used to using my gifts in order to make others to shine. I am worthy of having something to call my own and I look forward to stepping even more into my role as an entrepreneur.
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. It’s funny that this question came up, because a few of my family members/friends are planning a trip to visit me in a few months. I would take them to Taste Bar and Kitchen, because it is one of my favorite restaurants. Turkey Leg Hut is a must when people are visiting, because it is one of the biggest attractions we have in the city of Houston. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is really fun. As of lately, Bar 5015 is one of my favorite places to go! From the art that decorates the bar to the food and drinks, and then to the music, I truly enjoy myself when I’m there. There are other places, but for now, those are the places that come to mind.
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? After God, someone that I would like to acknowledge is Kierra Anderson of Major Kee’s Boutique in Dallas, Texas. Kierra, who is also my line sister and one of my best friends, has grown so much in her business over the last year. She has also created a group to encourage other young women to press forward in their business ideas and goals.
Website: empoweredexpressions.blog
Instagram: @ericaponder
Twitter: @ponder_erica13
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erica.ponder.5
Other: For inquiries and pricing on your writing and copy editing needs, please feel free to e-mail me at ponder_erica@yahoo.com. I am skilled in writing professional bios, press releases, scripts, and more.
Image Credits
Michael Wiggins