A personal journey of discovering purpose through the encouragement of friends and transforming it into a mission to inspire others through motivational speaking, writing, and empowerment events.
Influential Woman · Motivational Speaker and Author
NaKedra Rodgers
Business Performance Analyst II, OptimisticallyKe, LLC
Fort Worth, TX
2021Years experience
1Article published
Her Story
About NaKedra
Award winning Author, Christian Motivational Speaker, Transformation Mindset Coach and Conference Host, Na’Kedra Rodgers is a dynamic force who brings a burst of sunshine wherever she goes! She is a true Southern belle with sass who is famous for her boundless optimism and grit. Her mission is clear and full of heart: to inspire, encourage, and connect with women who are searching for their purpose or struggling in their faith, reminding them that God’s plans are always good.
Na’Kedra is a published author in two genres: nonfiction and children’s. Through her books including "Kneeling Earnestly for Transformation: 30-Day Devotional" and her "Transformation: Ready, Set, Glow Conference", Na’Kedra calls women to surrender, be transformed, and walk boldly in the purpose God designed just for them. Na’Kedra connects with Moms with her podcast Optimistically Mommy and Me Mondays via Facebook Live on 1st and 4th Mondays. Na’Kedra formed this support group to encourage, uplift and share the wins and challenges of parenting with other Moms. The podcast is an extension of her award winning children’s book Optimistically Mommy and Me.
Na’Kedra is a Christian Communicators Graduate and the recipient of the 2024 NCTRCA Outstanding Women’s Business Enterprise Award. She was also recognized as a 2025 Epsilon Tau Iota Phi Lamba Business Sorority Honoree. Na’Kedra speaks at well-known speaker and writer conferences across the U.S. She is a member of Redbud Writers Guild, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., National Coalition of 100 Black Women Fort Worth Metropolitan Chapter and Greater Fort Worth Professional Business Women’s Club.
Na’Kedra is also a devoted wife to Kelvin and a loving mom to Chloe and Harley. Together, they love traveling, laughing, and creating beautiful memories that reflect God’s abundant joy.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with NaKedra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I'd have to say my persistence... I continue to keep showing up for myself and I'm determined to stay the course,. I choose not to focus on what didn't work out or what barriers that I came across; instead I face obstacles head on. I figure out how to get around it, and I'm gonna trust and believe that because I'm helping people, that I cannot stop. I have to keep going to see how... how far I can... I can take this thing.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best thing that I have that I don't need validation from anyone else, Validation is for parking.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would definitely say go for it. It doesn't matter if you don't have the training, you just leverage the things that you do well, and God will take care of the rest.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge has been scaling my business. I'm still a company of one. I need contracts and more speaking opportunities to sustain my business.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Consistency, perseverance, and empathy. And I'll also say empowerment.
Her Content Hub
Articles by NaKedra
Live to Inspire
From Comparison to Calling: How I Discovered My Purpose in Inspiring Others
Living to Inspire Others
Becoming a motivational speaker was not on my list of goals to accomplish. As a matter of fact, it was never a vision or desire of mine. However, life after the pandemic ignited a shift in my mindset, and for the first time, I was open to considering a different career path.
I noticed that several people were starting their own businesses. I watched entrepreneurs offer mobile spa services, in-home fine dining, meal-prep options, and event décor, just to name a few. I loved the diversity and creativity of these startups, and it got me thinking about what type of business I could start.
At first, I felt discouraged because I began comparing my skills to what I saw other people doing. I couldn't do any of those things. I didn't bake or cook. I wasn't a licensed massage therapist, and I definitely wasn't going to decorate for someone else's party.
Once I recognized that I was beating myself up before I had even started, I decided to try a different approach. I reached out to my friends for suggestions to help get my creative juices flowing.
I talked with friends who didn't know each other; however, their responses were remarkably similar. They all suggested that I do something centered around encouragement. They began to pour into me and pointed out that I consistently posted inspiring words and Scripture on social media. They reminded me that whenever they came to me for advice, I always offered words of encouragement.
My friends commended me for being tenacious and having a "never quit" attitude. They even nicknamed me the "optimistic" friend. They were pointing out strengths in me that I hadn't fully recognized myself.
I took their words to heart as I began to consider how I could combine those qualities into meaningful work.
Fast forward five years, and I am now the CEO of OptimisticallyKe, LLC. My work includes motivational speaking, writing uplifting and encouraging books, and hosting empowerment events for women and children.
I choose to live my life out loud in the hope that others will be inspired to do something great. I am an ordinary person who started a business with no formal training. But because of my willingness to learn, my persistence, and my faith, I am where I am today.
I hope my transparency serves as the catalyst that encourages someone else to step outside of their comfort zone and dare to dream.
I believe that living to inspire others requires at least three things. I challenge you to incorporate these principles into your own life and allow them to spark your growth and propel you to your next level.
Influence and Impact Others
Someone is being inspired by your journey.
They are watching you and realizing that they, too, can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The decisions you make have an impact because you are a difference-maker. The work you do challenges others to move in a positive direction.
Continue using your influence to build others up and change lives.
Give Hope to Others
Your life is proof of what is possible.
Talk about your struggles and the sacrifices you have made so people understand that achieving meaningful goals is not easy—but it is absolutely possible if you refuse to give up.
You are an inspiration.
Your tenacity is a testament to your strength, perseverance, and willingness to succeed.
When someone reaches out to you, offer them an encouraging word. Speak life into them, encourage them, and wish them well on their journey.
Share Your Gifts with Others
Now that you have gained knowledge and experience, educate and empower others.
Someone helped you along the way. Pay it forward.
Your expertise is valuable.
Be a mentor.
Teach a class.
Share your wisdom with others.
Above all else, be a light, shine brightly, and inspire others along the way.
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