Dr. Telisa Franklin is the embodiment of what it means to be innovative, passionate, exquisite, unique, inspirational, and loving. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, in a neighborhood riddled with poverty and drug addiction, she refused to let her circumstances define her future. She fought back with determination, grit, and faith, refusing to become a statistic and instead choosing to pave the way for her own success.
Despite facing adversity and the loss of her father, Dr. Franklin persevered, graduating from high school and earning multiple degrees, including a Doctorate in Divinity. Her faith and her grandparents’ guidance were the cornerstones of her success, teaching her to put God first, work hard, and never give up.
Dr. Franklin’s journey inspired her to create opportunities for herself and others. She became an entrepreneur, founded multiple successful businesses, and is now the president of Flowers and More, the Memphis Juneteenth Festival, and Telisa Franklin Ministries, as well as the owner of WAVN the Trend FM104|AM1240 Radio Station. She is also a licensed life coach, author, and community organizer, working with various organizations in the Mid-South and surrounding areas to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
Dr. Franklin has the heart and willingness to serve. She leads with love, always putting others first and striving to help them succeed. Her certifications in marketing, public speaking, mentoring and coaching skills, events management, life coaching, diversity equity, and inclusion, and her role as a State of Tennessee Mental Health (CPRS) Certified Peer Recovery Specialist demonstrate her commitment to excellence in everything she does.
In five years, Dr. Franklin sees herself making an even greater impact on the world, using her voice and service to change lives and make a difference. Her story is one of hope and resilience. “No matter where you start, just finish well!” she said. “You matter and make a difference with your seed of service and water it with your life.”
Dr. Telisa Franklin’s inspiring story should serve as a reminder that no matter the challenges we face, we have the power to overcome them and create a brighter future. With hard work, determination, and a commitment to serving others, we can all achieve greatness and make a positive impact on the world.
