Shannon Natasha Foreman shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Shannon Natasha , 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?
As a self-employed individual managing a dual service business, my weekdays and weekends have distinct rhythms.
Monday to Friday: Workdays start at 4:45 am to prepare for my first nanny client. Ideally, some personal reflection, such as reading scripture or a daily affirmation, begins the day. Other times, nighttime correspondences are addressed, or social media is browsed for inspirational content from people like Tony Gaskins, Earn Your Leisure, and Iyanla Vanzant. My morning hygiene routine follows, including taking vitamins, staying hydrated with water, and getting dressed. My nanny family’s home is reached by 6:20 am.
My official schedule starts at 6:30 am when the children wake up. Preparing a nutritious breakfast and packing their school lunches then becomes the focus. Maintaining an organized environment is crucial as a Home Manager, so the kitchen, a frequently used space, is cleaned before leaving the house by 7:20 am at the latest. Once the children are at school, a break is taken to engage in mentally stimulating activities before heading to the second and often last nanny client of the day.
Friday afternoon to Sunday: Weekends begin slightly later, with my first swim client starting around 10:30 am. My day starts around 8:00 am with the same morning routine. Before leaving the house by 10:00 am, my swim bag is packed. The bag contains approximately five swim attire changes, towels, disposable bags for wet clothes, snacks, swim equipment, and sunscreen, among other essentials.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
As the founder and operator of Natasha’s Nurturing Nest, I offer a unique and personal approach to childcare and swim instruction. My brand is built on direct relationships and personalized experiences, unlike larger agencies and swim schools. As the owner, I manage every aspect of the business, including the hiring process, scheduling, client satisfaction and retention, developing policies, and ensuring proper insurance coverage and paying taxes. This approach offers a more tailored and attentive service that distinguishes Natasha’s Nurturing Nest from others.
As the business evolves, exemplary client service and preserving brand integrity are priorities, while also prioritizing self-care to best support my me and our community.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
For a long time, close friendships were limited to a trusted circle of two. From elementary to college, I’ve always kept two female friends close. While a large social network was never preferred, healthy connections are vital, especially as a sole proprietor building a successful business. Losing some of those core friends to distance, changing life circumstances, a busy schedule and personal growth was challenging, and for a while, there was self-imposed isolation. But now, my life is intentionally open to new people who bring positive energy that I can learn and possibly grow with. Being able to trust and be vulnerable with others is truly invaluable on this entrepreneurial path.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Honestly, yes. Two years ago, considerable time and resources were invested in building an agency infrastructure, with the belief that this was the right step for growth. However, after six months, the model was found to be unsuitable for the business, particularly when it came to consistently matching employees with families. After six months of launching, I made a decision to not permanently transition Natasha’s Nurturing Nest into an agency. This was not a financial decision but a commitment to ensuring the long-term viability of Natasha’s Nurturing Nest and upholding values. Returning to self-employment has proven to be the right choice, leading to significant client expansion and stronger relationships with clients who helped build the brand.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The phrase “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” is a well-known proverb, often attributed to King Solomon in the Bible. It articulates the crucial role of early guidance in character formation. The values and principles instilled in a child during their formative years will likely remain with them throughout their life. I personally find great truth in this, as my upbringing laid the groundwork for the person I have become today. This is how I approach my work, and I see it manifesting daily.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
Beyond professional titles and material possessions, a dedication to service remains the driving force. Prior to launching a business, I have actively served in various capacities, from jail ministries, youth mentorship, to feeding and clothing those that are less fortunate.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://natashasnurturingnest.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natashasnurturingnest?igsh=MXdhYWZzbHl0bm95MA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/natasha-s-nurturing-nest-llc-728873166
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GbcpBwso7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Images credited to Natasha’s Nurturing Nest
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
