Self-Care and Success: Dr. DeShonda Jennings on Balancing Business and Well-being

Dr. DeShonda Jennings is a powerhouse in the world of early childhood education and entrepreneurship. As a devoted mother, accomplished Family Childcare Business Owner, Childcare Coach, international speaker, and best-selling author, she has dedicated her career to helping families and businesses thrive.

Born and raised in Kenbridge, VA, Dr. DeShonda’s passion for education began early in life. However, it was the birth of her miracle baby that inspired her to build something greater—a childcare program that would not only nurture children but also create financial stability for her family. She founded DJ Shining Stars Childcare Program, a home-based childcare business designed to provide high-quality care for children from infancy to school age. Through her commitment to excellence, she has built a nurturing, educational environment that fosters growth and development in young learners.

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But Dr. DeShonda’s impact doesn’t stop there. She realized that many home-based childcare providers and mom entrepreneurs lacked the business knowledge and support needed to create a profitable and sustainable enterprise. She experienced these struggles firsthand—working long hours, balancing family life, and facing financial difficulties. Determined to break the cycle, she developed proven strategies to help other women turn their passion for childcare into thriving businesses.

As the founder of DJ It Takes A Village Childcare Association, Dr. DeShonda has built a supportive community for childcare providers, businesswomen, and community partners. Her coaching, educational programs, and self-care retreats help women gain financial freedom, avoid burnout, and achieve long-term success.

Dr. DeShonda’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, education, and entrepreneurial spirit. She believes that self-care is just as important as business success, which is why she hosts transformative retreats for women seeking renewal and balance.

Now, as a SWaM-certified business owner, Dr. DeShonda continues to expand her reach—offering mentorship, resources, and advocacy for women in childcare and business. Her mission is simple: helping women shift from surviving to thriving, creating legacies for generations to come.

From Passion to Purpose: The Birth of My Business

I started my business because I saw a major gap—so many childcare providers and mom entrepreneurs had the passion but lacked the business foundation to truly thrive. I’ve been there—working long hours, sacrificing family time, and still struggling financially.

For me, this wasn’t just about running a business; it was about building a legacy that provides financial stability, freedom, and a better future for my children. I wanted to create something that empowered women, not just with education but with the tools and support to succeed in business.

Through my coaching, association, and self-care retreats, I provide women with proven strategies to shift from surviving to thriving. I’m proud to share that I recently received my SWaM Certification for DJ It Takes A Village LLC and DJ Shining Stars, opening new doors for government contracts, grants, and growth opportunities.

And exciting news—membership is now open for DJ It Takes A Village Childcare Association, welcoming childcare providers, businesswomen, and community leaders looking for a supportive space to learn, grow, and connect.

In addition to business coaching, I also host Self-Care Retreats because women need a space to reset, refocus, and renew. You pour into others daily—it’s time to invest in YOU!

Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from My Journey

The journey to success wasn’t easy. When I started, I faced financial struggles, lack of support, and self-doubt. I was working nonstop, juggling childcare during the day, paperwork at night, and family in between. I had the heart for the work, but I didn’t have the business knowledge to make it sustainable.

Then came the hardest financial season of my life—I had to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy just to save my home. That was my wake-up call. I realized that I couldn’t just be passionate—I had to be strategic. That’s when I developed my L.A.U.N.C.H. framework, a system that helped me rise from financial hardship to a six-figure childcare business—all without sacrificing my health, time, or family.

Here’s how I overcame my struggles:

Investing in business education—learning about finances, marketing, and sustainable systems.
Creating multiple income streams—so I wasn’t relying on just one source of revenue.
Building a strong community—because doing it alone is hard.
Shifting my mindset—from simply running a daycare to building a lasting legacy.

Now, I teach other women how to do the same—without the years of struggle I endured. You don’t have to figure it out alone!

Expanding the Vision: What Makes My Business Unique?

So much has been happening in my business, and I’m beyond excited to share it with you!

First, receiving my SWaM Certification was a huge milestone. It opens new opportunities for funding, contracts, and partnerships, allowing me to serve even more childcare providers and mom entrepreneurs.

Next, membership is OPEN for DJ It Takes A Village Childcare Association! This is more than just networking—it’s a community of women dedicated to growth, collaboration, and success.

I’ve also introduced monthly co-working sessions, where women can step away from daily distractions and focus on their business goals. Even my high schooler joins in to complete her assignments—because success is a family affair!

Whether you need mentorship, business training, or a supportive tribe, I invite you to connect, collaborate, and build your legacy with us!

Upcoming Self-Care Retreats: Invest in YOU!

As women in business, childcare providers, and mothers, we spend so much time pouring into others—but who is pouring into us?

That’s why I’m hosting two upcoming Self-Care Retreats designed for women who need to step away, recharge, and refocus:

June 28, 2025 – A powerful, Self-Care Day Experience. A mini version of our Launch Your Legacy Retreat.
September 19-21, 2025 – A powerful, immersive retreat to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself.

These retreats focus on:

Mental and emotional renewal—so you can continue showing up fully in your life and business.
Business clarity and strategy—helping you return with a clear, focused plan.
A sisterhood of like-minded women—because you are never alone.

For details and registration, visit: www.deshondajennings.com/chat

You spend so much time giving to everyone else—now it’s time to invest in YOU. Let’s build legacies, take care of ourselves, and THRIVE together!