Get Up and Get On It: A Journey of Legacy and Wealth Creation

In our "Women We Admire" series, we highlight extraordinary women who have made significant impacts in their fields and communities. Today, we are honored to share the story of a remarkable entrepreneur who penned the insightful book, Get Up and Get On It: A Black Entrepreneur’s Lessons On Creating Legacy & Wealth.

What first inspired you to write Get Up and Get On It?

I wrote Get Up and Get On It to help those from marginalized and low-income backgrounds understand that they can change the narrative of their future, despite their birth circumstances. It’s a guide and a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating a legacy.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you started your career?

As a lifelong housing provider and a second-generation legacy family business owner, I wish I had asked my father more about how he defied the odds as a Black man during segregation and Jim Crow laws in the 1950s when he started buying property. My 92-year-old mother is still here to share our history, but I would cherish one more heart-to-heart conversation with my father.

What is one of the biggest challenges that you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?

We have weathered recessions, a pandemic, near bankruptcy, tenant hoarders, and ever-changing laws. Bankers have often advised us to sell rather than grant us a refinance, which would have eliminated our equity and future sustainability as a business. We were forced to pivot and negotiate often undesirable terms to stay afloat, but we persevered.

What has been one of your biggest victories?

Only 12 percent of family businesses survive until the third generation. My children are now operating what their grandparents founded over 70 years ago. This continuity is one of our greatest achievements and a testament to our resilience and dedication.

What do you wish someone had told you about menopause?

I wish I had not been taught to fear Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). I started menopause at age 55 and really suffered with hot flashes. I tried anti-psychotic meds which did not agree with me at all. The hot flashes, mood swings, and suffering became unbearable. I finally met with a doctor who explained the risks and rewards of HRT, and we started a low dose of the patch. It gave me my life back.

What are the top things we can do to help those in need?

Everyone deserves a mentor. The best tool in my treasure chest is expanding my network. Join organizations, volunteer, and be an active part of your community. My circle has expanded tenfold by supporting organizations such as Treehouse for Foster Kids and serving on the Museum of Popular Culture’s Board for nine years. There is always an opportunity to lend a hand. You cannot receive with a clenched fist. Giving always comes back and multiplies.

What advice would you give to women about taking care of themselves while balancing so many projects?

Each day, as cliché as it sounds, I look for something to love, something to do, and something to look forward to. Prioritize and give yourself grace to indulge in what you love. I love reading, writing, playing tennis, watching a great documentary, enjoying a glass of vino with loved ones, and traveling. I make sure that I work hard and play just as hard.

Let this story be our reminder that no matter where we start, we can build a future filled with legacy, strength, and meaningful connections. Dana’s resilience and dedication to helping others inspire us to push through challenges and support those around us. Cheers to your continued success, Dana. We admire your efforts.