Introduce yourself and brand to the Visions of Greatness audience.
I'm Francheska Felder, but I prefer to go by my writing name, Fancy. I am the award-winning publisher and editor-in-chief of SwagHer Magazine, an empowerment and lifestyle publication for the new, progressive Black community. I'm also the co-hostess of Theories & Thoughts Podcast.
Why did you pursue entrepreneurship?
I've always been an ambitious creative and usually preferred to lead whatever project I take part in. However, jobs always made me feel less than as if I was never good enough, no matter what I did. That started with my first job. It put a massive dent in my confidence, which was already fragile because back then, I didn't know anything about being an introvert, battling anxiety, or being socially awkward. While many look to entrepreneurship for financial freedom, I clung to it because it seemed like it might be the only way I could do what I love while also being free to be myself and provide for my kids.
Tell us about the products and services you offer.
I always say SwagHer Magazine and Media has two lines of business. Yes, we are a media outlet; we publish online and print in multiple formats and across various platforms. The majority of our content revolves around self-help and self-improvement for the Black community, and we often provide these lessons by sharing the stories of others. This is where our second business line comes in, as we also offer marketing, PR, branding, and creative services. It's gratifying to see our clients grow because many of them are small brands that maybe wouldn't get as much attention, but we have five platforms, a strong media network, and tons of creativity! Obviously, with our advertisers, it's usually straight marketing across our media. Still, we also have subscription packages where we work with our clients for a longer contracted time to maximize their results, because consistency is so important when building a brand. We assist with everything between website design, brand image, and securing press for our subscription clients.
In your consultations with entrepreneurs, what is their greatest struggle, and how can your services provide support?
Funding is usually the struggle of most entrepreneurs struggle. We teach them how to use what they have and combine that with our services. It's really a team effort. Our most significant advantages are we genuinely care about our clients’ success and know what it's like to work with limited resources. Hustle is no stranger to us.
What advice would you give to entrepreneurs to survive and thrive in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic?
There is a shift taking place. The last will be the first, and the first will be the last. I received this message early in the pandemic and set my mind to be within the first, and then I just began to move as if it was true. We may not see another time like this in our lifetime. Take advantage.
In their 30th and 10-year anniversary issue, SwagHer Magazine returns to talk life and social unrest amid a pandemic. Here is the issue: https://swagher.net/product/the-new-normal-issue-print-presale/
Share with our audience the most valuable lesson you have learned as an entrepreneur?
Sometimes the price is patience, so find contentment in the process, because it's all preparing you for something greater if you stay your course. As a society, we like to think that we can purchase all these get rich quick overnight products, but at the end of the day, what I've discovered is experience is the best teacher. I think this is particularly true for those who feel like they've been doing everything right and giving their all.
How do you maintain your mental wellness as an entrepreneur?
Time to myself is so important. As an introvert with anxiety, everything drains me, so I utilize my calendar to limit my interactions with others for starters. I also enjoy yoga, especially outdoors, under the sun. I'm also learning how to practice compassion for myself because I used to feel guilty if I wasn't spending every minute of my day working. Now I try to be more present in the moment of whatever I am doing.
What’s your vision for 2020 and beyond?
Wow, it's really too big to share, but the SwagHer headquarters will be finished by early 2021, and we will have our studio. We will then be able to expand more as a creative agency. That's when we will be able to hire others and offer more opportunities to other creatives. In the near future, “The New Normal” issue is dropping and I'm excited to share all the amazing stories and work that we've put into it. Plus, it's our 10-year anniversary issue!
How can our audience connect with you?
Website: https://swagher.net
Photography : Shameka Matthews of Smile 4 Meka
MUA: Robyn Pope of Lotus Love Esthetics
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