Ever wondered what it takes to ditch the cubicle and become a full-time girl boss? Our Student Spotlight Series interviews our students who have made the transition from 9-5 to remote CEOs!
From what inspired them to start their own business, their favorite podcasts, go-to morning routine, advice to aspiring girl bosses, and so much more!
Today, we’re sitting down with our student Felisha Melendez, Founder of Clout Clique Creative Studio! Originally from New Jersey, Felisha gives us a glimpse into her girl boss journey…
Q: What type of online business do you own and what services do you offer?
I’m the Founder of Clout Clique Creative Studio where I’m a social media expert and educator helping women in service-based businesses gain clarity and control over their online presence.
Social media is such a big presence in our lives and so many women lack the time and know-how to navigate it successfully. This inspired me to create custom services to help women transform their businesses!
I offer monthly social media management, Power Hour social media consultations, and a six-week 1:1 coaching service!
Q: What inspired you to enroll in the Bucketlist Bombshells Academy?
For five years, I was a middle school language arts teacher. I loved the job, but it wasn’t fulfilling and I knew I needed more in life! I wanted to be my own boss, but living in a small town with many friends in the same field made me feel so incredibly stuck.
One day, I listened to a Melyssa Griffin podcast episode featuring Cassie and Shay as guests. Their story and mission tapped right into what I was looking for and it’s been a game changer ever since!
Q: How have the courses helped you to become an online business owner?
I enrolled in The Tech Skills Course, The Design Skills Course, and The Work Online and Travel the World Course!
The Tech Skills Course led me to where I’m at now – social media! The Design Skills Course allowed me to take the logistics from The Tech Skills Course and be creative with my own business brand and the brands of my clients!
Q: How long did it take you to ditch your 9-5, and how much time did you dedicate in order to make it happen?
It took me a long time to stir up the courage to leave my job as a teacher. Once I ended the school year, I dove into the courses full force.
“I landed my first client in less than two months!”
Q: What has been your biggest setback, and how did you overcome it?
Imposter syndrome has been my biggest setback. I felt like I didn’t know enough to start something entirely new and on my own.
“The Bucketlist Bombshells Community and private Facebook groups were great places for me to make connections, learn from others, and ask for advice!”
Q: What was the final push in your story to get you to ditch that 9-5 job?
My final push was when I realized that I hated Fridays because that meant Mondays were close…and Mondays meant a full week of work.
“I knew there had to be more and that I couldn’t continue living my life like this.”
Q: Tell us what a “day in the life” looks like for you now that you’re running your own online business!
My days vary, but I always start with a morning routine to get energized and motivated for the day. Some days I work from home and some days I’ll work from a cute coffee shop!
Each day can either be filled with client calls, networking online, or with internal tasks to help my business grow.
“Although my days vary, they’re always filled with music and dancing!”
Q: What’s the most challenging part about running your online business?
The most challenging part about running an online business is that it can be isolating at times. I’ve made many, many online friends because of this!
Q: How do you stay inspired and motivated to run your online business?
Networking always keeps me on my toes.
“I always feel re-energized when I’m speaking to like-minded women and pinging ideas off one another!”
Q: What is your process for finding and landing clients online?
I network on social media, have genuine conversations with people, and listen to what their needs and goals are.
Q: What do you love most about the work you do and the clients you work with?
What I love most is that my business is something that feels natural to me, so essentially it doesn’t feel like work at all. It’s super fun and I love that I can work with women who have the same mindset!
Q: What’s the best part about being your own boss?
The absolute best part about being my own boss is living my life on my own terms. I don’t have to ask anyone for permission to take vacation or breaks!
“I’m not guilted into working longer hours and I no longer feel undervalued and unappreciated!”
Q: What is your favorite destination to work remotely from?
I’m just starting to branch out and travel more, but my absolute favorite place to work from right now is my bed!
Q: What is one travel item you can’t live without when you’re working and traveling?
I always need my high vibes music playlist and work accessories: cordless mouse, tripod, and headphones!
Q: What’s your go-to favorite podcast that you’d recommend to other girl bosses?
Girl bosses, you definitely need some GaryVee and Jenna Kutcher in your life!
Q: What is your number one piece of advice for aspiring Bucketlist Bombshells?
I took a lot of criticism from my loved ones because they thought switching careers was the craziest thing. I kept going, though, because it felt right.
Focus on yourself and tune into your own needs. Don’t stop if you’re feeling stuck. Seek out a mentor, coach, and create your own community. Surround yourself with like-minded women who will uplift you and cheer you on. It’s the key to growth!
