Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to April L.c. Davis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi April L.C. , great to have you with us today and excited to have you share your wisdom with our readers. Over the years, after speaking with countless do-ers, makers, builders, entrepreneurs, artists and more we’ve noticed that the ability to take risks is central to almost all stories of triumph and so we’re really interested in hearing about your journey with risk and how you developed your risk-taking ability.
I was born into the business of entrepreneurship, which has shaped my journey as a risk-taker—literally. My parents, Charles and Freddie Cowans, co-founded C & L Bus Repair Service in the 1990s, and the charter bus industry has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father left his job as a mechanic at AmeriCoach Tours in Memphis, TN, and my mother transitioned from her career in banking to pursue a dream they believed in wholeheartedly. Their courage to step into the unknown laid the foundation for what would become our family’s legacy. Watching them take such a bold leap of faith shaped my understanding of entrepreneurship and planted the seeds for my own journey as a risk-taker.
Growing up, I saw firsthand what it takes to build something meaningful from the ground up. My parents didn’t just show me the rewards of risk-taking—they showed me the grit, the sacrifice, and the relentless dedication required to make those risks pay off. From the long hours at the shop to balancing business demands with family life, every move they made was intentional and grounded in purpose. That legacy has deeply influenced how I approach my role as CEO of C & L Executive Transportation.
When my mother passed away in 2020, I lost not only my biggest cheerleader but also the reassurance she gave me when I faced difficult decisions. She had a way of making me feel like I could conquer anything, and suddenly that confidence I drew from her was gone. I had to learn to trust myself in a way I never had before. Her passing forced me to lean into my own instincts, embrace my strengths, and find the courage to make decisions without her guidance. It was a painful, transformative experience, but it taught me how to move forward with faith and conviction.
Running a charter bus company is not for the faint of heart. It’s an industry with high stakes at every turn. You’re managing million-dollar assets, navigating rising operational costs like fuel and insurance, ensuring compliance with stringent DOT laws and regulations, and, most importantly, safeguarding the lives of every passenger on board. It’s a constant balancing act, and success requires confidence, strategy, and the ability to adapt quickly to an unpredictable market.
A pivotal moment in my career was the strategic decision to modernize our fleet with newer motorcoaches, including the MCI J4500 models. This wasn’t just about upgrading our buses; it was about positioning the company for long-term growth and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. It required careful financial planning, market analysis, and faith in the vision I had for C & L’s future. It wasn’t easy but taking that calculated risk has allowed us to exceed customer expectations and expand our reach in meaningful ways.
Even as a child, I had a bit of a daring streak. My mom used to call me “Speedy Gonzales” because I loved riding my bike as fast as I could. That same drive to push boundaries and move forward has carried over into my approach to business. I’ve always embraced the thrill of what’s possible, but I also recognize the immense responsibility that comes with leading a company.
Technology is integral to managing risks and ensuring operational excellence. We utilize Saucon Technology, an advanced fleet management solution, along with compliance tracking tools and real-time monitoring software to prioritize efficiency and safety at every level. Saucon allows us to track vehicle locations, monitor driver performance, and maintain optimal fuel usage in real time. These tools enable us to stay ahead of potential challenges, streamline operations, and deliver the exceptional service our customers expect. By integrating these technologies, we uphold our commitment to safety, reliability, and innovation in the charter bus industry.
Ultimately, my ability to take risks comes down to preparation, trust, and faith. Losing my mother was a turning point in my journey, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to believe in myself. I’ve learned that taking risks isn’t about being reckless—it’s about being intentional. It’s about trusting your instincts, relying on your team, and staying grounded in your vision. Success is never guaranteed, but as my parents taught me, the biggest rewards often come from the boldest moves.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am April Davis, the Visionary Entrepreneur and Trailblazing CEO of C & L Executive Transportation. As the proud leader of a second-generation family business, I am honored to continue the legacy my parents built while reimagining what excellence in transportation looks like in today’s world. Our company specializes in providing premium charter bus services that prioritize safety, reliability, and exceptional customer experiences.
At C & L Executive Transportation, we are capable of accommodating large groups, whether it’s a small group of 20 passengers or a massive crowd of up to 100,000, depending on the scale of the event. We provide reliable transportation for a variety of occasions, including corporate events, large-scale conventions, school trips, church groups, weddings, and more. Every trip we facilitate is more than just a ride—it’s a journey that creates memories, fosters connections, and supports businesses, schools, and communities. Knowing that our buses play a role in someone’s special event, school trip, or corporate retreat fills me with immense pride and a sense of purpose.
What excites me most about this industry is its dynamic nature and the ability to bring people together. Our company’s versatility in handling events of all sizes is a significant point of pride, as we ensure that our clients’ transportation needs are met, no matter how big or small. From intimate gatherings to large-scale conventions, we manage logistics seamlessly and provide safe, reliable service that our customers can count on every time.
What sets C & L Executive Transportation apart is our unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and community impact. We’ve invested in modernizing our fleet with state-of-the-art motorcoaches, including MCI J4500 models, to ensure passengers enjoy a first-class experience. Beyond the vehicles, we leverage cutting-edge technology to streamline operations, ensure safety compliance, and enhance customer service.
Our journey has recently entered an exciting phase of growth. We’re expanding our fleet, hiring more drivers, and building a team that aligns with our vision for delivering unmatched service. I’m also exploring sustainable practices, such as incorporating electric vehicles and charging infrastructure into our future operations, positioning us as industry leaders in environmental responsibility.
Giving Back and Building Legacies
While I am dedicated to scaling our business, my heart lies in creating a lasting impact in the community that shaped me. As a proud alumna of Kirby High School in Memphis, Tennessee, I am committed to giving back to local students and paving the way for future generations. Through partnerships with Kirby High and organizations like Contemporary Arts Memphis (CAM), we’ve launched initiatives that support young creatives by providing art supplies to underserved students. I believe investing in their creativity fosters innovation and empowers the next generation of visionaries to build a brighter future.
Community engagement is at the core of C & L Executive Transportation. Whether partnering with local schools, creating jobs in underserved areas, or supporting charitable events, we are dedicated to uplifting those around us. For me, it’s about more than running a company—it’s about being a leader who inspires others to dream big, take risks, and leave a meaningful legacy.
Carrying Forward a Family Legacy
This business is deeply personal to me. My parents co-founded C & L Bus Repair Service in 1996, and their unwavering dedication laid the foundation for what the company has become today. Losing my mother in 2020 was a profound turning point, but it also became a source of strength and inspiration. Her reassurance and guidance gave me the confidence to make bold decisions and move forward. I strive to honor her memory in everything I do, knowing she would be proud of how far we’ve come.
Sharing My Journey
I’m currently working on an e-book that reflects on my entrepreneurial journey, the influence of my parents, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. It’s a tribute to the hard work, faith, and resilience that define not only me but also the legacy of C & L Executive Transportation. Through this book, I hope to connect with others on a deep and relatable level, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
As we continue to grow, my focus remains on scaling our business while maintaining the personal touch that has always set us apart. For me, success isn’t just about numbers or milestones—it’s about creating opportunities, giving back, and empowering others to see what’s possible. By embracing bold decisions, innovative thinking, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, I aim to inspire others to dream big, take risks, and create a legacy of their own.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, there are three key qualities that have been the most impactful in my success: resilience, visionary thinking, and the ability to lead with empathy. These qualities have shaped me as a leader, a businesswoman, and an individual who believes deeply in the potential of my team, my community, and myself.
1. Resilience
Life is full of unexpected challenges—whether it’s navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship or facing personal obstacles. Resilience has been a cornerstone of my journey. In particular, the loss of my mother in 2020 was a defining moment for me. While it was an incredibly difficult time, it also became the catalyst for me to rise, rebuild, and move forward with even more determination. This personal experience, coupled with my role as a mom, has further shaped my perspective on resilience. Raising two children has taught me to guide them through their own challenges, helping them build resilience from a young age. Developing resilience comes down to embracing setbacks as learning opportunities and staying focused on your end goal. My advice to anyone starting their journey is to not let failures or tough times define you—use them to grow stronger and more adaptable.
2. Visionary Thinking
The ability to see beyond the present moment and imagine the possibilities for the future is essential, especially in business. As a second-generation leader, I had to not only honor the legacy of my parents but also carve out a new path that aligned with my own values and the evolving needs of the industry. Visionary thinking has allowed me to adapt our business model, modernize our fleet, and explore sustainable practices such as integrating electric vehicles into our operations. To develop this skill, I encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to stay curious and open to new ideas. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and push you to think bigger.
3. Empathy and Leadership
Leading with empathy has been one of my most valuable skills. Whether it’s understanding the needs of my team, customers, or community, empathy allows me to make decisions that are thoughtful and intentional. By prioritizing the well-being of my employees and understanding their challenges, I’ve been able to build a loyal and motivated team that shares my vision for the company. My advice to early-stage entrepreneurs is to invest in people. Your team is the backbone of your success, and understanding their needs and perspectives will make you a stronger, more effective leader.
As Maya Angelou wisely said, “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value.” This quote resonates deeply with me as I navigate both my personal and professional life. The diversity of experiences and perspectives—from raising children, leading a family business, to supporting my community—has enriched my journey. It’s a reminder that no matter what walk of life we come from, we all bring value to the table, and it is this diversity that makes us stronger together.
For those starting out in their journey, I recommend focusing on these areas—resilience, visionary thinking, and empathy. As you face obstacles and challenges, remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay grounded in your values, stay open to growth, and never underestimate the power of building meaningful relationships. These qualities, combined with hard work and dedication, will serve as the foundation for your success.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been embracing strategic delegation and scaling my business operations, both professionally and personally. As the CEO of C & L Executive Transportation, I’ve always been deeply involved in every aspect of the business, from overseeing day-to-day operations to making critical decisions. However, as the company has grown, I realized that in order to continue scaling and achieving my long-term vision, I needed to trust my team and empower them to take ownership of their roles.
This shift has been an essential part of my personal growth as well. Balancing my responsibilities as a CEO, a foster parent, and a mother of two young children has taught me the importance of building resilience —both within my business and in my personal life. It’s one thing to talk about the value of resilience; it’s another to live it every day while raising children, supporting my team, and being an active part of my community. As I continue to nurture my family’s growth, I’m also learning to apply the same principles of patience, trust, and perseverance to my business.
Delegating responsibilities and building a strong, capable team has not only allowed me to focus on the larger vision of C & L Executive Transportation, but it’s also freed up time to dedicate to my personal development. In the past year, I’ve been able to focus more on fostering resilience in my children by showing them how to handle challenges, make decisions, and believe in themselves. These lessons have been just as critical to my growth as the professional ones.
Another area of growth has been in integrating sustainable practices into our business operations. With the increased responsibility that comes with running a growing company, I’ve become more conscious of my environmental impact. Exploring electric vehicle options and focusing on green initiatives is part of my commitment to both business success and creating a positive legacy. This has been an incredibly fulfilling personal journey—balancing progress with purpose.
In sum, the past year has been a journey of delegation, personal resilience, and sustainability. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t just come from external achievements but from trusting others, embracing the process, and continuing to develop as both a leader and a person. This combination of professional and personal growth has allowed me to build a stronger foundation for C & L Executive Transportation while also cultivating the resilience that I strive to instill in my family and my community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://clexecutivetransportation.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c.l.transportation/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/C-L-Executive-Transportation/61557450087656/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-l-c-davis
- Twitter: https://x.com/CL_Transport
Image Credits
Professional Photography Services:
Steve Jones Photography
www.stevejonesphoto.com
Kirby High School
Mr. Jeremy McKinnie
Family Engagement Specialist
Contemporary Arts Memphis- CAM
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