We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dr Nicole Gates-Golden. Check out our conversation below.
Nicole, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
In the first 90 minutes of my day, I create a foundation of peace and purpose that sets the tone for everything that follows. I begin with a moment of prayer, grounding myself and expressing gratitude for the opportunities ahead. This is followed by a session of meditation, where I focus on calming my mind and centering my thoughts. As I transition into wakefulness, I immerse myself in uplifting morning music or affirmations that invigorate my spirit and reinforce my intentions for the day. With my mind and spirit aligned, I move into my “Empower Hour,” a dedicated time for focusing on my business activities and money-generating tasks. During this hour, I prioritize setting order to my day, ensuring that I am organized and ready to tackle my goals with clarity and determination. This structured routine empowers me to approach each day with confidence, purpose, and a positive outlook.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden, a powerhouse in entrepreneurship and community service! Armed with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, a double Master’s with a focus on Digital Entrepreneurship and Marketing, and an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration, Nicole is breaking new ground and setting trends. As the Executive Director of the Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy, she’s all about empowering future business leaders with the tools to build sustainable success.
Beyond her professional accolades, Nicole is a supermom and devoted wife who adds heart to everything she does. Her passion for community shines through her service on multiple nonprofit boards and her graduation from Leadership Memphis. Guided by her life motto, “To whom much is given, much is required,” Nicole is all about making waves and leaving a lasting impact in her community. Get ready to be inspired by her journey and commitment!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden vividly remembers the moment she first felt a surge of genuine power—it was when she discovered she could make her own money, and that there was no ceiling to the amount she could earn. As a young girl, armed with nothing but her determination and a handful of bright ideas, Nicole set out to explore the world of entrepreneurship. Her earliest ventures were simple yet profound: selling a neighborhood newsletter to cakes and cookies from her easy bake oven to organizing small community events, each success lighting a spark within her. This newfound ability to generate her own income was more than just financial freedom; it was a revelation of her potential to shape her future and make a meaningful impact. Over the years, Nicole’s ventures grew in scope and ambition, each one a testament to her belief in limitless possibilities and legacy building. Through her journey, she not only built successful businesses but also inspired others to pursue their dreams, proving that the true measure of success lies in the lives we touch along the way.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden reached a pivotal moment in her life when she decided to stop concealing her pain and instead harness it as a source of strength and transformation. This awakening came with the realization that she needed to divorce herself from anything and anyone that didn’t have her best interests at heart. It was a courageous decision to let go of relationships and situations that no longer aligned with her core beliefs and values. By shedding these burdens, Nicole found the clarity and freedom to focus on her true purpose. Her journey was not without challenges, but she used each obstacle as a stepping stone, propelling her towards a life of authenticity and fulfillment. In embracing her past struggles, Nicole transformed them into powerful catalysts for growth, ultimately guiding her on a path to empower not only herself but those around her. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless potential that emerges when we choose to live in alignment with our true selves.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
For Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden, legacy building is more than just a cultural value; it’s a profound commitment to crafting a lasting impact that will echo through generations. She envisions a future where her children and grandchildren not only remember her achievements with pride but also benefit from the foundations she has laid. Central to this vision is the Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy, a testament to her dedication to empowering future leaders and fostering innovation. By creating an institution that nurtures entrepreneurial spirit and provides invaluable resources, Nicole is ensuring that her legacy extends far beyond her immediate family. She aspires for this academy to be a beacon of opportunity and growth, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to society. Dr. Nicole’s unwavering dedication to legacy building is driven by her desire to instill values of resilience, creativity, and empowerment, ensuring that her influence endures and inspires for many years to come.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden frequently reflects on the two things she would most regret: not traveling often enough and not making a meaningful impact on her local community. To her, travel represents more than just leisure; it is a gateway to understanding diverse cultures, gaining new perspectives, and enriching her worldview. She believes that these experiences are crucial for personal growth and for broadening the horizons of her life and work. Equally important to Nicole is the desire to leave a positive mark on the community she calls home. She is driven by the conviction that true fulfillment comes from contributing to the betterment of those around her. Whether it’s through local initiatives, mentorship, or community development projects, Nicole is committed to creating lasting change. Her passion for both travel and community impact underscores her belief in a life well-lived—one that embraces both adventure and altruism, ensuring that her journey leaves a legacy of inspiration and empowerment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goldenkeyeta.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_goldenkey?igsh=NmxybDExcTVyOWtt&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Yolanda Gates
