We’re looking forward to introducing you to LaKenya Kopf. Check out our conversation below.
LaKenya, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Archery! My happy place is on the range with my barebow. I put on my headphones (and keep the music extremely low – safety first, since I need to hear anyone calling out “clear” if I’m sharing the line, or “bows down” in case something is downrange that I may not see) and just get in the zone. When I’m on that line and looking at my target, my mind is clear. The only thing I hear is my music, the only thing I feel is the weight of my bow, and all seems right with the world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is LaKenya Kopf, and I am a Certified Tech Manager. Normally, when I introduce myself, I’ll say something like, “I manage the backend tech stack for small businesses,” or, “I support the tools you need to convert your leads.” But in reality, I’m that – and so much more.
While I love focusing on CRMs, email marketing systems, and funnel automations, I’m also responsible for setting up and managing podcasts, maintaining WordPress sites, and providing second-tier support for business owners who like to do things themselves but want the peace of mind that they’re covered if something goes wrong – or simply want their work checked to make sure it’s done right.
Simply put, I’m a small business owner’s right hand when it comes to tech. My focus is on pulling business owners out of the backend of their businesses so they’re no longer the bottleneck – freeing them from tasks that could easily be automated, increasing efficiency, and improving lead conversions. This helps prevent missed opportunities that often happen when things fall through the cracks or when business owners just can’t get back to a lead in time.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationships with my two best friends have had the most impact on how I see myself. I’ll come right out and say that I am extremely hard on myself. I am my biggest critic and a recovered perfectionist. Recovered because it took two people who know me better than I know myself – and whom I would trust with my life – to constantly remind me that 1) I am human, which means 2) I am fallible, and 3) they are only a plane ride away to kick my butt if I don’t stop working myself to death (did I fail to mention I am also a recovering workaholic?). They are my biggest advocates for mental health and remind me of the importance of not only finding but keeping balance in my life. With the two of them, I am able to make mistakes without feeling like it’s the end of the world, walk away for the day without feeling like I’m letting everyone down, and simply work to live – not live to work.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
Music has always been my source of comfort for anything and everything. Feeling alone – music. Upset about something – music. Angry, frustrated, pick an emotion – music was that weighted blanket that would center me, bring me back down, and remind me that it will be okay. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but eventually – so just breathe. For me, music – especially instrumental music – has this overpowering ability to quiet my mind and pull me under the sweet melody of a beautiful orchestra. There is nothing like it.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
No! I am an introvert with mild social anxiety. I absolutely hate being in social situations, networking, making small talk with strangers, being the center of attention, or having off-the-cuff conversations – especially if they’re recorded. Once something is out there, it’s out there; there’s no taking it back. I prefer to think carefully about what I say and revise it a few times before putting it out into the world. I’m extremely private and prefer to keep to myself as much as possible.
As an entrepreneur, that isn’t always possible, so I’ve learned to exist in two versions of myself: the one associated with my business, who can work a room and talk to anyone, and the real me, who would rather be at home with a book, avoiding the world around me.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, I’ve been doing that since the first day I stepped into Corporate America. I’ve never been someone who seeks outside validation; in fact, I prefer not to receive it. When someone acknowledges that I’ve done a great job, it almost feels like a curse. Now the bar has been set, and if I mess up, there will only be disappointment. I’d rather my work go unnoticed – as long as I know I’m doing my best and giving my all, that’s what truly matters.
In the world of being a small business owner, longevity is what I consider acknowledgment of a job well done. If a client never praises me but we’ve been working together for ten years, that’s enough for me. I don’t need a pat on the back or a “good job.” Their trust in me when it comes to their business is what drives me to keep doing my best.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kopfconsulting.org
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kopfconsulting
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/lakenyakopf
- Twitter: https://x.com/kopf_consulting
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/kopfconsultingva
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kopfconsulting
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
