Join us as Loneitha Francis, founder of The Social Agency & Tipsy Ice Cream, shares her inspiring journey. From the Bronx to building a business empire, Loneitha discusses overcoming challenges, faith in business, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Expect humor, insights, and tips from a woman with a million-dollar mindset.
Introducing Loneitha Francis
Sterling: Leonitha, welcome to “In the Black.”
Leonitha: Thank you, Sterling! I’m so happy to be here.
Sterling: We’re thrilled to have you. Let’s start with your origin story and passion. You started The Social Agency. What inspired you to create it, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Leonitha: The Social Agency is the second iteration of a business I started in 2013 called The Social Concierge. I built it off my personal and executive assisting experience. People always complimented me on making complex tasks look easy. Whether it was digital marketing, social media management, or event planning, I had a knack for making things happen. After moving to the DMV in 2015, I rebranded and focused more on social media and digital marketing. Now, we’ve expanded into project management and strategic consulting.
The Quick-Witted Entrepreneur
Sterling: Your bio mentions you have a quick-witted, fiery, hilarious personality. Can you demonstrate that for us?
Leonitha: Well, I don’t say it—people say it about me! Being a native New Yorker, you have to be quick on your feet. In business, especially in consulting, providing solutions often requires quick thinking. Sometimes, I address hard topics with a bit of humor to make the truth easier to digest. People liken me to Olivia Pope: in-your-face but effective. The truth often comes with a joke or a crass comment, but it gets my clients’ attention.
A Mind for Millions
Sterling: On your website, I saw the slogan “a mind for millions.” What does that mean, and how do you help businesses increase revenue and sales?
Leonitha: “A mind for millions” reflects my belief in solving complex business issues with profitable ideas. It’s about thinking outside the box and finding untapped revenue streams. We ensure our strategies solve immediate problems and lead to long-term financial success. We aim to convert social media engagement into paying customers, leaving no money on the table.
Balancing Act
Sterling: You have diverse interests. How do you balance everything and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Leonitha: Group texts are my lifeline! I share my thoughts with friends and family before going public. This helps me process and gain different perspectives. I also practice self-care, like getting my nails and hair done, which boosts my confidence. Setting firm working hours and learning to say a hard no are crucial. As a digital marketer, I limit my personal social media use to avoid burnout and maintain professional boundaries.
Sterling: That’s great advice. I recently switched from a laptop to a desktop to create a clear work-home boundary. It’s made a big difference.
The Tipsy Venture
Sterling: I also read you started a new venture called Tipsy, an infused ice cream. Can you tell us more about that?
Leonitha: Tipsy is an ice cream infused with artisanal wine and spirits. It was born out of a tough financial period when I couldn’t pay my car note. I combined my love for ice cream and Hennessy to create something unique. After perfecting the recipe and selling it to friends, it quickly became a hit. Despite challenges like finding investors and dealing with food regulations, Tipsy is set to make a comeback this summer.
Sterling: That’s an incredible story! Naming your flavors creatively adds a fun twist. What’s been your biggest challenge with Tipsy?
Leonitha: The biggest challenges have been finding a suitable kitchen and dealing with production logistics. We’re working on overcoming these hurdles and look forward to relaunching Tipsy soon.
From the Bronx to the DMV
Sterling: How did growing up in the Bronx shape you as a person and build your determination?
Leonitha: Growing up in the Bronx exposed me to diversity and instilled a sense of perseverance. My mother and other community pillars taught us to fight for our desires. They advocated for better resources in our schools, which showed me the importance of determination and community support. This background has always driven me to aim higher and achieve more.
Sterling: What prompted your move to the DMV?
Leonitha: The DMV offered new opportunities and a chance to rebrand my business. The move was challenging, but it allowed me to focus and streamline my services, ultimately leading to greater success.
Career Transitions
Sterling: Your career has transitioned from telecom to computer science to running The Social Agency and Tipsy Ice Cream. Can you describe that journey?
Leonitha: Initially, I wanted to be a third-grade teacher. But my passion for technology and public relations led me to telecom and computer science. I realized the workforce would be oversaturated, so I switched to computer science. It was tough, but a professor pushed me to excel. Now, I’ve married public relations and computer science into digital marketing, where I thrive.
Sterling: Did you receive any formal training in digital marketing?
Leonitha: No, I’m self-taught. I’ve always been an early adopter of social media platforms, learning through hands-on experience and curiosity. This has allowed me to teach others and innovate in digital marketing.
Faith and Business
Sterling: You describe yourself as a Pentecostal girl from the Bronx. How does your faith influence your business?
Leonitha: My faith plays a crucial role. The Bible says in Deuteronomy 8:18 that God gives us the ability to create wealth. This belief drives me to use my talents to their fullest. My faith grounds me and guides my business decisions, ensuring integrity and purpose in everything I do.
