Tonya B. Ratliff better know as the “The Purpose Midwife,” is a prophet, author, entrepreneur, retired educator, purpose coach, spiritual mentor, and life strategist. She is a native of Bogalusa, La. She resides in Hammond, La with her husband Allan and son Nicholas. She has been given a mandate by God to reach hurting women through prayer, ministering the Word of God, writing daily inspirations, and mentoring. Her greatest fulfillment in life comes through helping young women tap into their God-given destiny and purpose. Anointed by God for such a times as this Tonya is the founder of W.A.M. (Women Advancing in Ministry) which meets bi-weekly in her hometown to train and equip female leaders in ministry.
In 2017 Tonya instituted her first master class entitled “Queen Work Your Gift “which empowers women to walk into their ordained purpose in ministry or in business. Earlier this year she published her fourth book entitled Coffee with the King which is a daily devotional which uses every day practical scenarios to minister to the believer as well as the unbeliever. Coffee with My King is a household brand which will transform the lives of millions on weekly basis through the syndicated talk show “Wake Up with the King.”
On January 6, 2018 The Redemption Center of Bogalusa, La., was launched where Pastor Allan and Tonya Ratliff are the Overseers. Armed with her microphone in her right hand and her pen in the left hand, she is ready to set the world ablaze for the kingdom.
What is a day in the life of you like as a purpose coach?
My day normally begins around 8:00am with prayer, meditation, and biblical studies. After I complete my morning devotion the next task on my agenda is writing for my blog or my current book. On an average day I normally schedule at least two coaching/mentoring sessions along with discovery calls. Coaching and mentoring is usually one fourth of my day which is about one to three hours.
How did you launch your business?
In 2012 God sent me back to my hometown of Bogalusa, La to begin working with women who were broken and bound. I would meet with them monthly or prayer and a bible based teaching. From the monthly meetings the Holy Spirit led me to begin a nightly prayerline and write daily devotionals to encourage and empower the women. As I continued to work with the women my passion begin to grow as their lives were transformed. In 2014 I began working with a young lady I met during a prayer symposium where I was the guest speaker. God allowed me to speak into her life concerning her call and days later she reached out to me to help her in her walk. As I continued to work with her other ladies in the church we attended during this time reached out to me for help.
It was in December of 2015 when the Holy Spirit spoke to me and told me I would not return to my career as an educator during the 2016-2017 school term because he was calling me to fulltime ministry. Once I retired in July of 2016 the blueprint for the next season of my life was revealed. I launched I.M.E. Consulting through releasing ‘The Treasure Within Me Purpose Journal’ and E-Course in August of 2016.
Can you tell us how you are helping your clients as a spiritual mentor through the method and tactics you use?
Prior to each client entering the coaching or mentoring process an assessment is administered which will determine the course of action which is needed to ensure success is paramount. Most clients begin with The Treasure Within Me Course which focuses on identity, purpose, vision, mission, and an action plan. Once the client has mastered the critical components addressed within the course we move to an individualiSed plan which address their specific calling/assignment from God. I provide instruction and guidance on understanding how to study the bible, sermon preparation, prophetic instruction, and evangelism.
Who does the team involve behind you?
My team includes two people. My spiritual daughter who assist me with planning, organising, and marketing along with my assistant who travels with me.
Where can you see yourself within the next 3-5 years?
In the next three to five years I will be traveling globally training and equipping women to dominate in ministry and business. I will also produce my own radio and television nationally as well as internationally. I will also own my publishing company.
How are you planning to expand?
I will begin in 2019 I will begin A Queen Work Your Gift Masterclass Tour which will travel to five major cities. I will also relaunch ‘The Treasure Within Me E-Course’ and begin small intimate cell groups entitled ‘Coffee Talks’ which will allow women to meet and share around coffee and conversation.
Can you tell us what areas you have struggled in professionally?
I have struggled financially and also with support from mentors.
Have you ever had any other mentor? If so how has this benefitted you to grow?
I had a mentor when I first began coaching and I have always had spiritual mentors. Each mentor I God has connected me with in various seasons of my life have pushed me to the my next place of purpose.
What outlets do use to market yourself?
I utilise all social media outlets, an email subscribers list, and testimonials from previous clients.
Which methods are you using to build your own support network?
I utilise my spiritual daughters, individuals who I have previously worked with, and I am currently seeking to hire a virtual assistant.
What do you believe are the common misconceptions of being a life coach?
I believe the most common misconception is life coaches should not charge astronomical prices. Also life coaches can work miracles.
What would you like to see changed for millennials in business?
I honestly think millennials do not receive the respect deserved from seasoned entrepreneurs due to their age.
What is the best piece of advice you have received to date?
Focus on your current goals, faithfully work towards completion, and continually evaluate your progress and make the necessary changes to forge ahead.
What is the number 1 critical lesson you have learned in your career so far?
Do not be afraid to take a risk even if you fail, you will learn from your mistakes and launch out again.
How do you create an evenly balanced work and personal life?
I plan my week on Sunday evening based on the goals I have set for the month. Each night I create an agenda for the following day to drive my day. My agenda also includes down time to take a break and recalibrate every few hours. I also only work three days a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
The highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my career has been releasing my purpose journal and e-course The ‘Treasure Within Me.’
What gives you ultimate career satisfaction?
My ultimate satisfaction comes from observing the clients I assist undergo their metamorphosis.
What barriers have you faced whilst building your business?
The barriers I have faced include clients being consistent in completing their prescribed program, perspective clients are unable to afford the cost of the program, and personally attempting to tackle to many projects at one time.
Which other leading entrepreneurs and pioneering game changers do you also admire and why?
I admire Dr. Marilyn Porter, Stevie Mills, Nella Chickwe, and my uncle Gregory Brumfield.
How would you say you are intending to use your voice to educate others in the world of coaching?
I will use my voice to edify, exhort, and empower others to tap into the creative power God has placed on the inside of them to change the world.
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
‘Jump’ by Steve Harvey was the catalyst which pushed me to retire and enter into full time ministry and launch my consulting business.
What does your Podcast playlist look like?
I do not have a podcast playlist.
How do you measure your own terms of success?
I measure success based on my ability to complete those short term goals which lead to achieving the long term goals. Mastering the level you are currently pursuing. It does not happen overnight, but little by little.
What does #BEYOUROWN mean to you?
According to Jeremiah 1:5 before I was formed in my mother’s womb, there was a preordained assignment for my life. #BEYOUROWN to me simply means being the best version of me God created.
Lastly what is next for you?
I will be releasing the second book in my ‘Coffee With The King’ series. I will also launch a line of products which are directly linked to my new book series. I will be implementing a five city book tour for my purpose journal and launching a Blog Talk Radio Show. Finally, I will host a Women In Leadership summit in early 2019.
Twitter: @Tonyaaka
Instagram: @thepurposemidwife
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepurposemidwife/
Website: http://www.thepurposemidwife.com
