Shae Carter shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Shae, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
What I’m most proud of building, though it often goes unseen, is my resilience and faith. On the surface, people might see the roles I book, the projects I’ve managed, or the achievements I post about, but what they don’t see are the countless moments of rejection, self-doubt, or obstacles that could have easily stopped me. Behind the scenes, I’ve worked hard to build a mindset and spiritual foundation that allows me to keep moving forward, stay grounded, and continue creating opportunities even when things aren’t perfect. That inner strength doesn’t show up in a résumé or a headshot, but it’s what sustains me and fuels everything else I do.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Shawana, and I’m the founder of a growing trucking business that I built from scratch with grit, faith, and consistency. I had to teach myself how to navigate everything from securing loads to compliance, and I did it with nothing but determination, faith, and a vision for creating something lasting.
For me, trucking is more than just moving goods from one place to another. It’s about reliability, responsibility, and opening doors for growth, not only for myself, but for my family and the people I work with. I’ve learned that consistency and discipline are just as important as the wheels on the truck, and that’s the foundation my company is built on.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my business, building stronger systems, and positioning it for long-term sustainability. What excites me most is knowing that I’m creating a brand that represents perseverance and possibility and showing others, especially women stepping into male-dominated industries, that it’s possible to start small and build something meaningful.
At the same time, I’ve also been training in the voice over world, from commercials to animation and video games, which keeps me just as busy and creatively fulfilled. What makes my story unique is that I’m not afraid to step into new spaces, learn from the ground up, and prove that you can build something meaningful, no matter the industry.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The people who taught me the most about work were my parents. They led by example, showing me that hard work isn’t just about punching a clock, it’s about taking pride in what you do, showing up with integrity, and being consistent even when no one’s watching. Their work ethic shaped me into someone who doesn’t shy away from challenges but instead sees them as opportunities to grow and prove myself.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “You are stronger than you think, and everything you’re going through now is preparing you for the doors that will open later.” There were times when I doubted myself or felt like I was behind, but I’d remind my younger self that resilience isn’t about never falling, it’s about always getting back up. Trust the process, stay the course, and know that the seeds you’re planting will grow into something bigger than you can imagine.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire people like Viola Davis, not for their fame or power, but for their integrity and heart. She speaks honestly, stands up for others, and lives her values every day. Her character reminds me that true influence comes from kindness, courage, and how we lift people up, not from titles or recognition.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, my roles, and all my possessions, what would remain is the impact I’ve had on others, the love I’ve shared, the encouragement I’ve given, and the ways I’ve helped people feel seen, valued, and empowered. At the core, what remains is the essence of who I am: my integrity, compassion, and the footprints of kindness I leave behind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shawanacarter.com
- Instagram: @shawanasworld
Image Credits
Libra Trucking Services
