Q&A with Author & Influencer, Whitney Geathers

Whitney MG is an author and influencer from Orlando, FL. Inspired by her daughter and the importance of representation in media and literature, Whitney prides herself on making sure each piece of work she releases gives children and adults confidence in knowing that they are truly magical! 

Can you tell our readers about your background?

My name is Whitney Geathers, I was born and raised in Orlando, FL. I graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Elementary Education. I taught 6th grade language arts before moving to Indianapolis in 2015. I have always had a passion for books, especially children’s books.

What inspired you to start your business?

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I knew I wanted her to have books that represented her. Books that helped give her confidence in who she is and the things that make her who she is. I started writing my first book Numbers Naturally, I found an illustrator and decided to self-publish it. I didn’t intend for it to be a big deal, but after I released it, and having received so much positive feedback and support, I knew I wanted to continue writing books and create my own brand. Whitney MG

Where is your business based?

My business is based in Indianapolis, Indiana, but I’m often in Florida as well.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

I started by business by publishing my first book. I started creating accounts specifically for my business and created business cards. Once my book was released I started promoting myself as Whitney MG and eventually created a website. 

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

I’m still very new and have so much room to grow, but social media has been a great resource for helping to promote my business and reach as many people as possible.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge has been learning the industry and learning what works and what doesn’t as far as the content of my work and marketing. I’ve been able to overcome these challenges by reaching out to other authors, researching, and always asking questions. I even ask friends and family what their concerns and/or challenges are and I try to keep those in mind as I brainstorm ideas.  

How do you stay focused?

It’s difficult sometimes, but I found that having a notebook/planner handy, and designating a small amount of time daily towards my business has helped me stay focused. I also keep my goals in mind as motivation.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

There are many children’s books on the market, but what sets my books apart is that my books typically offer informative content. With my education background I always try to incorporate education into my books while making them fun and diverse.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

Instagram has been extremely effective. I’ve been able to reach so many people through hashtags and promotions. 

What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

My best advice would be to never give up. It may seem like everyone else is doing the same thing but even if 100 other people have a similar product as you, there is always someone who needs YOUR product and not someone else. So don’t give up. Stay positive. 

What’s your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favorite app is Instagram because I love expressing myself and my thoughts through pictures and being able to see all the other creative minds that showcase their talents on Instagram as well. I always feel inspired when I find good profiles. My favorite book at the moment is actually a children’s book called “What Do You Do With an Idea”, because the message is for adults as well. I get ideas every day and some of them I act on, others I don’t but the important thing is to never let a good idea get away. I always keep a notebook close by to write any ideas I have just so I don’t forget them later.

What’s your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

My favorite business tool is email. It may seem super old but I do so much of my communications through email. I get them straight to my phone so it’s easy for me to respond no matter where I am.

Who is your business role model? Why?

My business role model would have to be Alex Elle. She is a writer and encourages readers on a daily basis. I admire her for always staying positive, but also expressing when things get real or difficult, and showing that bad days happen and that’s okay but there are always positives in every situation. 

What do you have planned for the next six months?

I plan to start working on my next book, of course. But I’ll also be supporting my husband’s career as well. 

How can our readers connect with you?

You can find me on Instagram and Twitter @bywhitneymg or via email at bywhitneymg@gmail.com also my website, whitneymg.com.