We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhonda Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rhonda, what principle do you value most?

My entire career has been guided by a strong set of values, integrity being the most important. I’ve always believed that gaining trust and credibility, building solid relationships, customer loyalty, and influencing others all depends on ones level of integrity. You can be the most competent individual from a technical or job skills perspective, but if you lack integrity you will have minimal to no impact in your environment and the people you come in contact with. My Pastor always says “your talents can take you to places your character can’t keep you”. And the Bible says “what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul”. In a nut-shell, businesses built on integrity will have better long-term success.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

First, I still work in Corporate America as an HR Leader. So, from 8-5 I’m an HR Leader. Beyond those hours and on the weekends, I’m the Creator of Shoe Snobb. Not to mention being a wife and a mother. So, the struggle is real! 🙂

In August of 2015, I felt like I was at a crossroad in my career and started thinking about starting a business. I remember the day…sitting in my bed thinking “what do I like, other than HR?”…”what is my purpose/passion?” Shoes immediately came to mind. But, I doubted being able to monetize my love of shoes. And I wasn’t sure how I would use my love of shoes to fulfill my purpose. I’ve always loved shoes. Even as a little girl. I have also always had a high entrepreneurial spirit. In October of 2015, I launched my first shoe boutique, Imelda Marcos’ Shoe Closet. In 2018, I rebranded and relaunched as Shoe Snobb. The first 3 years or so were dismal at best. But, eight years after 2015, I have over 15K email subscribers, I’ve partnered with celebrities and a daytime tv show to promote my brand, and I have a profitable business. And in 2024 we will be launching our own shoe line – so stay tuned for that!

I’ve been an HR practitioner for 20 plus years, with no connections or experience in the fashion industry. So, building a successful boutique has not been easy. The fashion industry is all about connections, which I did not have. So, with a lot of courage and confidence, I got out and started introducing myself to people in the industry and getting involved in fashion events and activities – and it has paid off.

I’ll close with this…before starting a business, understand what you are good at, your passions and purpose, establish the guiding principles for the business, create a business plan, identify your circle and go for it!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m from Inkster, Mi (Ink-town!). :-). So, I’ve never lived in Detroit. But, Belle Isle and Heart Plaza will always hold a special place in my heart. My Dad took us there probably once a month growing up.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Wow. So many people have poured into me over my life-time. I would say my Church family (Victory Church/Norcross), my Husband, Larry Johnson Jr., who is responsible for all of my marketing materials and website, my parents who raised me to live with high integrity, and a host of family members, close friends and my social media family. Last but not least, Andrew Epstein, my former manager, who was instrumental in catapulting my HR career. What a blessing to have such a village.

Website: www.shoesnobb.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoesnobbstores/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoesnobbinc

Image Credits
1.CreativeMindz Media 2.Destinee Maree

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