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 Ratanya Olaves, Founder of Noel Social! Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, Ratanya 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 Noel Social where I provide thoughtful and authentic branding, illustrations, and web design for creatives and entrepreneurs.

Q: How did you discover the Bucketlist Bombshells?

I discovered the Bucketlist Bombshells in a Forbes article!

Q: What inspired you to enroll in the Bucketlist Bombshell Academy?

A year prior to enrolling in the Bucketlist Bombshells Academy, I had just started my blog and discovered the world of entrepreneurship. 

“I realized that this was the path I wanted to pursue!”

However, I didn’t know exactly what I could and wanted to do. The Bucketlist Bombshells Academy seemed like the perfect first step for me to finally start my online business!

Q: How have the courses helped you to become an online business owner?

The Bucketlist Bombshells Academy taught me how to set my business up for success!

Q: What type of job were you working in prior to running your own online business?

I graduated from college with a degree in Public Health Promotion, but somehow, I ended up working in administrative positions, which I didn’t like.

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?

In September of 2018, I purchased the Bucketlist Bombshells Academy and quit Corporate America in August of 2019. I spent anywhere from 10-20 hours a week building my business.

“I was tired of crying and being stressed out every day from companies that really didn’t care about me.”

Q: What is your process for finding and landing clients online, and how long was it until you landed your first?

Initially, I was on Upwork, but have now focused my attention to finding clients on Instagram and getting referrals from past clients.

“It took me three weeks to land my first client!”

Q: What’s the most challenging part about running your online business?

For me, the most challenging part about running Noel Social is staying focused. I’m a creative and can have a new business idea every single day, but I have to remind myself to stick to my business. I can always grow and expand down the road!

Q: Looking back on your online business journey, what is something that you’re most proud of?

With a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communications, I started freelancing in social media marketing. Three months in, I realized it really wasn’t for me. I loved the design aspect so much more, so I transitioned to providing design services.

“Don’t be afraid to pivot in your business!”

Q: If you could speak to your past self, what piece of advice would you give her?

I would tell my past self that you are so capable and talented. Stop believing that you aren’t good enough because you are!

Q: How do you stay inspired and motivated to run your online business?

I absolutely love being my own boss! One day, I hope to have a team, so I want to keep working hard to get there.

Q: Tell us what a “day in the life” looks like for you now that you’re running your own online business!

I wake up at 8 or 9am, read my Bible devotion, and then take my dog for a walk. Then, I come back, have breakfast, and begin working.

During lunch, I take my dog out for another walk and then either eat lunch at home or meet up with my husband. I typically finish my workday around 5pm.

Q: What’s the best part about being your own boss?

The best part about being my own boss is having the freedom to do whatever I want! I love that I can add to or change my services whenever.

“I love not having to answer to a boss and having the flexibility to take time off whenever I want!”

Q: What do you love most about the work you do and the clients you work with?

I love that I get to work with other small business owners who are also passionate about what they do. I also love that I get to be creative and make designs that bring people joy!

Q: What is your favorite destination to work remotely from?

When I’m not working from home, my favorite place to work from is in the lobby of the Hoxton in Chicago. It’s such a hotspot that the hotel started its own coworking space!

Q: What’re your favorite business tools that you’d recommend to other girl bosses?

I use Asana to keep everything organized and on task and Planoly for my Instagram scheduling!

Q: What is one of your favorite books that you would recommend to another girl boss and why do you love it?

I’m currently reading Becoming by Michelle Obama. I’m such a fan of her and how much she has achieved in her life!

Q: What’s your go-to favorite podcast that you’d recommend to other girl bosses?

I love The Real Reel Podcast with Natalie Barbu and The Freedom Babe Podcast by Kelly Marcyniuk!

Q: What is your number one piece of advice for aspiring Bucketlist Bombshells?

Don’t let the fear of what others think stop you from achieving your goals, dreams, or wants!