Meet Latasha Williams, the visionary founder of The Modern Edge Careers and a beacon of empowerment in career coaching. Driven by her own transformative journey from server to corporate leader, Latasha’s passion lies in helping others unlock their full potential and navigate their careers with intention and confidence. Her unique blend of personal experience and strategic insight has made her a sought-after mentor for professionals seeking to redefine their career paths. Latasha’s mission is clear: to inspire and guide individuals, especially women, to embrace their power and craft careers that truly reflect their authentic selves. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story and uncover the strategies that have helped countless others achieve remarkable career breakthroughs.
What inspired you to start The Modern Edge Careers and focus on career coaching?
The inspiration for Modern Edge Careers came from my own professional journey and a deep-seated desire to help others navigate their careers more effectively. Early on, I found myself coaching colleagues at work—people who were struggling to meet expectations. I focused on helping them raise their performance within just 60 days. Seeing their transformation sparked something in me.
I realized that with the right guidance, anyone could unlock their potential and achieve success. This led me to volunteer with organizations dedicated to helping women bounce back and get a second chance in their careers.
My passion for coaching grew as I immersed myself in learning everything I could about what makes CEOs and executives successful. I read hundreds of articles, dissected strategies, and began applying these lessons in my own work and with those I coached. Over time, I saw a clear pattern: there’s a strategy that anyone can follow to uncover their power, purpose, and potential at work—while staying true to themselves.
This realization was the driving force behind Modern Edge Careers. I wanted to create a space where professionals, especially women, could learn to navigate their careers with intention, authenticity, and confidence, crafting their success on their own terms.
As I continued to help people achieve significant transformations in their careers, I knew this was more than just a passion—it was a calling. The success stories, the gratitude from those I coached, and the profound impact I saw in their lives confirmed that Modern Edge Careers was the platform through which I could make a meaningful difference. Today, my mission is to empower as many professionals as possible to take control of their career narratives, break free from the traditional path, and build careers that truly reflect their power and potential.
Can you share more about your journey from working as a server to becoming a career coach?
My journey from working as a server to becoming a career coach started with a realization during a shift one day. I grabbed a napkin and scribbled down a goal: I had more to give, and within a year, I would be in a corporate role. I had been a server for years and felt something was missing—I knew I could do more, but I wasn’t sure what.
To gain clarity, I began making a list of the things I enjoyed, and training quickly rose to the top. I approached my boss at the restaurant and offered to train new servers for free. The results were remarkable—servers started making more money and improving their sales, and I soon became a trainer. This was my first brush with the power of focusing on something I was passionate about and seeing the tangible impact it could have.
From that point, I was hooked. I realized that helping others develop their skills and achieve success was not only something I was good at, but something that fulfilled me deeply. This experience set the foundation for my transition into the corporate world, where I continued to refine my coaching skills.
It was a pivotal moment that made me realize the power of purpose and intention, leading me to eventually start Modern Edge Careers and help others unlock their potential, just as I had done for myself. My calling, which led me to be a coach, was inspiring others they had more power and potential in whatever they did.
Inspired by this success, I took a chance and began applying for management roles. Eventually, someone took a chance on me, and I landed a corporate position. This transition marked the beginning of my journey into the world of career coaching. The experience taught me the importance of recognizing and acting on your potential, which ultimately led me to start Modern Edge Careers. Now, I help others find their path, just as I found mine, by embracing their strengths and pursuing their passions with purpose.
How did your experiences and challenges in the workplace shape your approach to career coaching?
My approach to career coaching is deeply personal and shaped by my own experiences and challenges in the workplace. As a woman navigating male-driven industries, I faced the trifecta of challenges—gender, age, and race. Feeling overworked and underappreciated, I realized that I needed to be more strategic in my career. I began to reflect on the steps I took, as well as the successful strategies of highly promotable colleagues, and I discovered a formula that worked regardless of the circumstances.
This formula became the foundation of my coaching philosophy and my signature program, the Career Hustle Academy. I coach professional women who are on similar paths, helping them identify what they truly want in their careers and teaching them to think about their careers like a business. I guide them to use their existing strengths and resources to reach the next level. The challenges I faced are exactly what I coach on today, ensuring that women can craft careers filled with power, passion, and potential, just as I have done.
What does being referred to as the “Olivia Pope of Career Mastery” mean to you, and how does it influence your work?
Being called the “Olivia Pope of Career Mastery” is incredibly meaningful to me. It captures my dedication to helping women navigate their careers with the same tenacity and strategic brilliance Olivia Pope uses to solve complex problems. For me, it’s about empowering women to break free from traditional career expectations and boldly take control of their professional journeys.
My approach is deeply personal because I’ve faced the challenges many women encounter—feeling overlooked, undervalued, and uncertain about how to move forward. I know what it’s like to be told to wait your turn, but I also know that waiting isn’t enough. I’ve learned that success requires proactive ownership, being visible to the right people, and adapting quickly to changes.
When I coach my clients, I’m not just teaching them skills; I’m helping them rewrite their career stories. I want them to realize they can be, do, and have the extraordinary success they dream of, just like I did. So, being the “Olivia Pope of Career Mastery” means I’m there to help women uncover their power, purpose, and potential, and to guide them as they create careers that are authentic, impactful, and entirely their own.
How do you help clients uncover their power, purpose, and potential in the workplace?
Helping clients uncover their power, purpose, and potential in the workplace is at the heart of what I do, and it all starts with my Her Career Hustle™ Formula. This process is designed to guide them through a powerful transformation, allowing them to not only find their place but thrive in their careers.
The Her Career Hustle™ Formula, a powerful, step-by-step process that unlocks their full potential at work. We start by breaking through self-limiting beliefs and uncovering hidden strengths, then move on to crafting a standout personal brand that gets them noticed. From there, we focus on building executive presence and mastering self-promotion to ensure their work is recognized. Finally, we create a strategic network that keeps their career momentum going. This formula doesn’t just help them survive in their careers—it empowers them to thrive, stand out, and achieve promotions and opportunities almost on autopilot. It’s about turning their potential into real, unstoppable career success.
These phases are about resilience and proactive career management—keeping the momentum going, even when faced with setbacks or challenges. It’s about making sure that every step they take is a step forward, no matter how unclear the path might seem at times.
Throughout this journey, my clients learn to see themselves in a new light. They uncover a power they didn’t know they had, align it with their purpose, and unleash their full potential. The result? Careers that are not just successful, but truly unstoppable.
Can you describe a significant breakthrough you’ve helped a client achieve and the impact it had on their career?
One of the most transformative breakthroughs I’ve witnessed was with a recent college graduate who, like many, struggled to see the true value of her academic accomplishments in a professional setting. We started by using my Her Career Hustle™ Formula to help her uncover the strengths she had developed during her time in school—things she hadn’t even recognized as powerful assets. We then worked on how she wanted to show up in the workplace, based on the ways she naturally excelled in school, crafting a personal brand that was not only authentic but also a true reflection of her potential.
We practiced and refined this brand until it became automatic, allowing her to present herself confidently and consistently. Next, we revamped her resume to not just list her experiences but to showcase her as a future key player in the workplace. I introduced her to my “reverse recruiting and key stakeholder finding” strategies, which she used to secure an interview within just two weeks. Despite her limited professional experience, she landed a job with a starting salary of $90,000.
But the story doesn’t end there. This breakthrough in recognizing and owning her power set off a chain reaction in her career. Within a year, she applied the same principles to earn a promotion, and just three years later, she secured a six-figure role. The real magic in this breakthrough was watching her transform from someone unsure of her value to a professional who knew exactly what she brought to the table—and who wasn’t afraid to go after what she deserved.
This experience reinforced a truth I see time and again: when women finally uncover and embrace their power, there’s no limit to what they can achieve. Often, we just need someone to help us see that power in ourselves, and once that’s unlocked, the impact is unstoppable.
What are some of the common challenges women face in their careers, and how do you address them?
Women, particularly women of color, often encounter significant challenges in their careers, such as underrepresentation in leadership roles, lack of mentorship, and the pervasive effects of imposter syndrome. Many struggle to gain visibility, navigate corporate politics, and access the tailored resources they need to succeed. These barriers can leave them feeling stuck and undervalued.
At The Modern Edge Careers, we tackle these challenges head-on by helping clients develop career strategies that work on autopilot. Our Her Career Hustle™ Formula is designed to empower women to uncover their strengths, build a powerful personal brand, and implement strategic plans that align with their professional goals. We focus on helping women discover their unique career niche, which involves identifying their distinctive value and positioning themselves as key players in their fields.
Women in male-dominated industries face unique challenges like being overlooked for promotions, feeling isolated, and dealing with the pressure to conform to a culture that may not reflect their values. At The Modern Edge Careers, we equip these women with specific strategies to navigate these barriers and thrive.
For instance, we teach clients to embrace failures as learning opportunities and to take calculated risks that can set them apart. Strategic visibility is crucial—we guide them on how to showcase their achievements in ways that get noticed by key decision-makers. This might involve learning to communicate their successes confidently in meetings, volunteering for high-profile projects, or strategically networking with influential colleagues.
We also focus on helping them build resilience. Working in a male-dominated field often means facing setbacks, but with the right mindset, these challenges can become stepping stones to greater success. We encourage our clients to seek out mentors and allies within their organization who can provide support and open doors to new opportunities.
Finally, we work on developing a long-term career strategy that operates on autopilot. This means setting up systems and habits that continually propel their career forward—whether that’s regularly updating their personal brand, maintaining strong professional relationships, or consistently seeking out new learning opportunities.
By applying these strategies, women in male-dominated industries can not only break through the barriers they face but also build a career that’s authentically theirs and positioned for lasting success.
8. How did you develop the “secret sauce” or unique strategies that have helped women achieve significant salary increases?
The “secret sauce” I’ve developed comes from years of navigating the professional world, where I learned that hard work alone isn’t enough. It’s about being strategic, following the breadcrumbs around you, and understanding the dynamics at play in your workplace. I observed how influencers operated, how they made their value visible, and how they didn’t just work hard—they worked smart.
I realized that to achieve real breakthroughs, you have to treat your career like a business. I teach my clients to create a business plan for their careers—just like an entrepreneur would. This means identifying key influencers, understanding what makes them successful, and strategically positioning yourself to be seen and valued. It’s about making your achievements undeniable and asking for what you’re worth with confidence.
I help women see their careers as dynamic, evolving enterprises where they are the CEO, driving their success and ensuring their compensation reflects their impact. In the last year alone, I’ve helped thousands of clients collectively earn over $2 million in salary increases. It’s about owning your worth, crafting a strategic plan, and ensuring your compensation reflects the impact you make.
What role did mentorship play in your career development, and how do you incorporate mentorship into your coaching?
Mentorship has been a game-changer in my career, especially when I was navigating uncharted territory as a first-generation college student and young professional. Early on, I lacked role models who looked like me or understood my challenges. When I finally connected with mentors, it was like someone flipped a switch. They didn’t just offer advice—they helped me see myself in a new light, pushing me to recognize my own potential and take strategic steps to advance my career.
In my coaching, mentorship is at the core of what I do. I aim to be the mentor I needed back then—someone who not only guides but also challenges and empowers. I work closely with my clients to uncover their strengths, navigate obstacles, and develop a clear, actionable path to success. But it doesn’t stop there; I encourage them to build their own network of mentors that serve different purposes (not a cookie-cutter mentorship), creating a support system that offers diverse perspectives and sustains their growth over time.
The essence of mentorship is about more than just guidance—it’s about helping someone realize they can achieve more than they ever thought possible. Most of the times, companies and professionals get this wrong.
One of the main reasons why most people don’t get what they want is they haven’t decided what they want in their career outside of what’s been “told” to us. They haven’t defined their desires in clear and compelling detail. That’s the energy I bring to my coaching, ensuring my clients don’t just meet their goals but surpass them.
How do you manage to balance the demands of running your business with maintaining your own mental well-being?
Balancing the demands of running a business with maintaining mental well-being requires intentionality and self-awareness. I’ve learned that just as I coach my clients to take ownership of their careers, I must take ownership of my mental health. This means setting boundaries, knowing when to say no, and making time for activities that recharge me—whether it’s a quiet morning with a good book or a walk in nature.
I approach my mental well-being like I would a strategic business plan. I schedule time for self-care, just as I would for a critical meeting, and I prioritize it. I also make it a point to practice what I preach to my clients: embracing failures as learning opportunities, staying resilient in the face of challenges, and continually reminding myself of the bigger picture.
Running a business is demanding, but I’ve found that by staying true to my purpose and making time to care for myself, I can lead with clarity and strength. This balance not only sustains me but also empowers me to be the best version of myself for my clients and my business.
Here are three hacks that have been game-changers for me:
- Schedule “Me Time” as Non-Negotiable: Just like a crucial business meeting, I block out time for myself in my calendar—whether it’s a morning walk, meditation, or simply unplugging for a while. This time is sacred and non-negotiable, ensuring I recharge regularly.
- Delegate and Trust Your Team: You can’t do it all. I’ve learned to delegate tasks and trust my team to handle them. This not only lightens my load but also empowers my team to grow and take ownership, creating a more balanced work environment.
- Embrace Failures as Stepping Stones: Running a business is full of highs and lows. I’ve adopted a mindset where failures are seen as learning opportunities rather than setbacks. This perspective reduces stress and keeps me focused on long-term growth.
What are some of the most common misconceptions about career advancement that you encounter?
One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is that hard work alone will lead to career advancement. While hard work is essential, it’s not enough by itself. I teach my clients the importance of strategic visibility—making sure that the right people know about the value you bring. This means actively sharing your achievements, seeking opportunities to contribute in visible ways, and building relationships with key influencers in your organization.
For example, instead of just completing a project and moving on, I encourage clients to find ways to showcase the impact of their work, whether through presentations, team meetings, or one-on-one conversations with their managers. Networking is also crucial—connecting with colleagues and leaders who can advocate for you when opportunities arise. This approach ensures that your contributions are recognized, positioning you for promotions and new opportunities.
Another misconception is that failure should be avoided at all costs. In reality, failures are powerful learning tools. I help my clients reframe setbacks as necessary steps in their growth, enabling them to refine their strategies and come back stronger. For instance, one client turned her perceived failures into learning experiences, which ultimately helped her secure a six-figure role within three years.
A common myth is that high performers are simply those with natural talent or a clear path to success. In reality, high performers are often those who don’t give up, take calculated risks, and continually ask for what they need. There’s no predetermined method of success—those who observe what works and doesn’t in their environment, adapt, and harness those insights are the ones who thrive.
I teach women to understand these success principles and use them to craft a career that’s not just successful but truly fulfilling.
How do you tailor your coaching approach to the specific needs and goals of each client?
I tailor my coaching approach by first diving deep into where each client is in their career and what specific goals they have. My process starts with a comprehensive assessment to understand their unique challenges, strengths, and aspirations. For some, the focus might be on strategic visibility—teaching them how to get noticed by the right people through effective networking and communication strategies. For others, it might be about honing in on their personal brand, and refining how they present themselves in every professional interaction.
Once we’ve identified their specific needs, I use my Her Career Hustle™ Formula to craft a personalized plan. This could include building their confidence to speak up in meetings, learning how to advocate for themselves during promotions or salary negotiations, or developing a long-term career strategy that works on autopilot. Each client’s journey is unique, so my approach is highly customized, ensuring that they’re not just following generic advice but taking actionable steps that are aligned with their individual career paths. This tailored coaching ensures that every client can achieve their career goals in a way that’s both authentic and sustainable.
What advice would you give to someone who feels stuck in their career and unsure of how to move forward?
If you’re feeling stuck, I want you to know that you’re not alone—and this is your moment to reclaim your career on your own terms. Start by building a circle of support—connect with a mentor, coach, or peers who inspire you and hold you accountable. But here’s the key: don’t just wait for things to change, make them change.
You need to become the storyteller of your own career. That means learning how to market yourself. Start by aligning your contributions with the bigger goals of your organization, but don’t just do the work—speak up about the impact you’re making. Visibility is not about bragging; it’s about ensuring your value is recognized.
There is one quote that stuck with me in my career when a previous boss shared it. At first, I didn’t understand it and ignored it but when I started to put it into action- it was true! Zig Ziglar said: “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help other people get what they want.” The more you elevate others, the more you’ll elevate yourself.
So, focus on adding value to those around you—mentor a colleague, volunteer for a project that pushes you out of your comfort zone, or introduce an idea that can drive change.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Whether it’s asking for a stretch assignment or exploring new roles, these are the moments that lead to growth. Your career isn’t just a series of jobs; it’s your legacy. So, make it bold, make it impactful, and make it yours. This is your time to break through, step up, and create the career story you’ve always wanted no matter your age, race, or gender.
Can you share any personal struggles you’ve faced in your career journey and how you overcame them?
My journey started as the child of a teenage mother, facing long odds as a first-generation college student. I didn’t have role models to guide me, so I became my own guiding light. As an introvert and a young woman of color, I struggled to find my voice in a world that often tried to silence me. I spent years working behind the scenes, relying solely on hard work, hoping it would be enough.
But I realized that without taking 100% responsibility for my career, I was allowing external circumstances to dictate my success.
In my early career, I was the silent superstar—working hard behind the scenes, helping others shine while I remained in the shadows. I believed that hard work alone would set me apart, but I soon realized that I was relying too much on this belief and not enough on actively showcasing my value. I also let my age and race hold me back, thinking I needed to wait my turn rather than seeing myself as an asset.
The turning point came when I decided to take 100% responsibility for my life and career. I stopped blaming external factors and started consciously creating the life I wanted. I asked myself: What do I truly want to achieve? What does success look like for me? Once I decided what I wanted, I began to position myself as a key player rather than just a role filler.
I started speaking up, sharing my achievements, and thinking of myself as a valuable asset to my department and company. This shift from waiting for recognition to actively creating opportunities transformed my career. It also taught me that success isn’t just about hard work—it’s about taking ownership of your journey, deciding what you want, and making it happen.
I began to think of myself not just as a worker, but as an asset—someone who could drive change, lead with purpose, and inspire others. I learned to embrace failures as stepping stones, to showcase my potential, and to take calculated risks that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Through perseverance and a refusal to let others define my path, I rose to higher-level roles, eventually earning over 10 prestigious awards for my leadership and contributions.
Today, I’m dedicated to teaching other women how to navigate the corporate world strategically, to own their narrative, and to create the success they envision. My story isn’t just about overcoming obstacles; it’s about defining what success looks like for you and going after it with everything you’ve got.
What message would you like to share with other women looking to amplify their voices and create impactful change in their careers?
My message is clear: don’t wait for permission to claim your space and make an impact. Early in my career, I learned that success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about being strategic, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and boldly advocating for yourself.
I’ve seen this truth play out with both recent graduates and female executives. One client, a recent graduate, felt unsure about how to leverage her strengths in the workplace. Together, we uncovered her hidden talents, built an authentic personal brand, and positioned her for success. She didn’t wait for opportunities—she created them. Within weeks, she secured a role with a significant salary increase, and within three years, she was earning six figures.
But I also work with female executives who, despite sitting at the tables they once dreamed of, feel like just seat holders, unsure of how to fully own their power. These women often struggle with imposter syndrome and feel like they’re not making the impact they envisioned. For them, it’s about realizing that they’ve earned their place and have the authority to lead with confidence and purpose. We work on embracing their roles, amplifying their voices, and creating a strategic vision that aligns with their true potential.
For every woman, whether you’re just starting out or you’re at the top, it’s about taking ownership of your narrative. Don’t just take a seat at the table—own it. Speak up, take risks, and unapologetically pursue the impact you know you’re capable of making. Your career is yours to shape, and the world needs your voice to lead the way.
Website: www.modernedgecareers.com
