LocalAugust 27, 2024

Small Business of the Day: Conversations with Frenchaire Gardner

Local Stories

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Today’s Small Business of the Day features an interview with Frenchaire Gardner. Please find our conversation below.

We’re thrilled to have the chance to ask you some fun questions today, but before we get started, can you introduce Author Frenchaire Gardner to our readers.
I’m Frenchaire Gardner, and my business encompasses a unique blend of roles as a published author, keynote speaker, art therapist, and host of the ‘A News You Can Use Podcast.’ What sets my brand apart is its multifaceted approach to personal and emotional growth.

As an author, I’ve penned impactful works like ‘Mommy and Daddy Do You Still Love Me Anymore? 2nd Edition,’ recognized with an honorable mention at The Book Fest Spring ‘22, and contributed to collaborative projects such as the Amazon #1 Best-Selling ‘Finding Joy in the Journey Vol. 2: Healthy Ways to Find Joy During Difficult Times 90-Day Devotional.’ Additionally, my audiobook ‘The Single, Saved, Struggle: The Struggle Continues’ has resonated with a wide audience.

Beyond writing, I’m deeply involved in the art world, both as a creator and educator. My acrylic painting ‘First Bloom’ was selected for London’s No Name Gallery April 2021 Issue, showcasing my commitment to emotional expression through art. I also offer abstract painting lessons for individuals aged five and up, using colors as a tool for exploring and expressing emotions.

What truly distinguishes my brand is the authenticity and resilience I bring to every interaction. Despite grappling with bipolar depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I remain triumphant and grateful. My journey through trauma and pain fuels my commitment to helping others navigate their own struggles, fostering an environment of understanding, growth, and healing.

Are there some clients who are your brand’s MVP’s – give them a shoutout and tell us about the impact they’ve had on your brand
In the journey of building a brand, there are often individuals who become the backbone, the MVPs, driving growth and innovation. For me, two extraordinary women stand out: Dr. Tamara Pizzoli and Dail Chambers.

I’ve known Dr. Pizzoli since our college days at Southern Methodist University. Working with her at her boutique publishing house, The English Schoolhouse, has been a transformative experience. She entrusted me with promoting her first three books, a responsibility that fueled my passion for literature and marketing. Together, we forged partnerships with influential brands like MyBrownBaby and AfroPunk, amplifying the reach of her works. Her books, now archived at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, symbolize our collaborative journey of growth and success. Beyond business, Tamara’s unwavering support has inspired me to pursue my own writing endeavors.

In St. Louis, my collaboration with Dail Chambers began with representing her art and products at events. Over time, our relationship blossomed, fueled by mutual trust and a shared commitment to creativity. Dail’s innovative spirit constantly challenges me to think beyond conventional boundaries. When she illustrated the second edition of “Mommy & Daddy Do You Still Love Me Anymore?”, I knew her whimsical drawings would captivate audiences. And indeed, in the spring of 2022, our collaboration earned us an Honorable Mention at The Book Fest. Dail’s fearless approach to artistry continues to push me to explore new possibilities and unlock untapped potential.

Dr. Tamara Pizzoli and Dail Chambers are not just clients; they are mentors, collaborators, and friends who empower me to strive for excellence in every endeavor. Their impact on my brand transcends business, shaping it into a dynamic force for creativity and innovation.