Cheryl Williams, M.D.

I was introduced to Dr. Williams in the Goldman Sach’s 10k Small Businesses course in the Fall 2019. I was immediately interested in how she persevered for 20 years in her business. I often have a hard time understanding how I’ve stayed in business for 7 years. It’s nearly impossible for me to think through how to stay in business for 20! What I learned from Dr. Williams was to stay flexible and know your purpose. 

Dr Williams is an allergist in New Orleans East. I admire how flexible Dr. Williams has been throughout her career depending on her goals and the needs of her family. When I met her, she was hoping to create a business plan to update the services she offers her clients as her family changed. Her sons are all out of the house and she has  more time to give to the business. She is now facing different challenges then when she first opened.

In the interview below I also admire her honesty. She mentions the impact a miscarriage had on her career. When I suffered an ectopic pregnancy last year, it impact my business and personal life unexpectedly. I couldn’t take shifts, had to close the shop early a few times, and I had to make quick decisions I felt very unprepared to make. It’s an incredibly painful life event that is unfortunately common and rarely spoken about.

Hearing about the different types of events, painful or otherwise, that impact our business, helps us feel less alone. This is why I created Bossy Like Me to share the good and the hard moments and how we make tough decisions in our businesses. I’m proud to share with you Dr. Williams’ words below. 

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 How did you know you wanted to open your own business? 

I always enjoyed science and math classes in high school. To get an insight into my ideal career, I attended 3 summer engineering programs for high school students--at LSU, Georgia Tech and Southern U. in BR.  The experiences were enjoyable but I soon realized that I did not want to pursue a career in engineering. Fortunately a high school recruiter from Xavier U. of La. visited my high school in Baton Rouge and encouraged me to take a look at their Pre-Med Program.  I looked at it and loved what I saw. I finished Xavier and then LSU Medical School. After medical school, I moved to Los Angeles where I trained in Pediatrics at Drew/ UCLA Med. Center and Allergy/ Immunology at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center.

Upon completion of all of my training, I was recruited to practice in Lutcher, La. and I eventually ended up in New Orleans, La. where I have had a private practice for 20 years. 

How do you start your day? What are the things you do to ensure you have a successful day? 

I start my day with meditation and a strong cup of coffee.  I also relax with my husband of 38 years before we start our day.  We have an empty nest now. We have 3 sons--one son is a mechanical engineer, one at Xavier U. of La., one at Howard University.

What are you most excited about that you get to do in your work? 

I get excited about successful outcomes seen when my patients follow their treatment regimens. When someone suffers for months or even years sometimes and I am able to help alleviate their or improve their problems, I get excited.  Just listening to their problems asking the appropriate questions is of utmost importance. As a specialist, I am able to spend more time with my patients and get an in depth history and pertinent physical. My joy comes from alleviating their pains. 

What is your hardest fought win? 

My hardest fought win was to graduate from medical school.  My 2nd year was extremely hard dealing with the lost of my unborn child.  With prayers and support, I was able to graduate on time.

What was your most successful failure in business? 

My most successful failure was to not be accepted into The National Guard.  I did not pass the weight guidelines. However, I feel that I would not have been a good soldier!

What are you reading and listening to right now? Any books or albums?

The books that I read are Allergy Journals.  I enjoy listening to Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, and various jazz artists.