Ever wonder how someone manages to run a successful business for 20 years, raise eight kids, AND lead community revitalization efforts? We sat down with Julie Amy, owner of For Kids’ Sake Early Learning Center in Pinckney, to find out. Here are some highlights from our conversation:
How do you balance motherhood, business ownership, and community leadership?
Julie: “You know, right now we ‘only’ have three kids at home, which definitely helps the pace. My husband is also self-employed, and he’s a beast at managing the intricacies of our businesses and all the moving parts of family life. At the end of the day, it’s been about teamwork, grace, and recognizing that balance isn’t a static thing—it shifts with the seasons of life.
You have to give yourself permission to adjust. Some seasons you’re all-in on family, other times business needs more attention. The key is being intentional about where you’re putting your energy.”
What’s been your biggest game-changer in managing everything?
Julie: “The strongest support has been my staff—many of whom have been with me for 10+ years. Those long-term relationships are the foundation we all stand firmly on. More recently, investing in CliftonStrengths coaching to align our team roles has been transformative.
I think when people feel valued and see their strengths being used, they want to stay. It’s not just about the paycheck – it’s about being part of something meaningful.”
What advice would you give to new business owners about community involvement?
Julie: “The community will reward you to the degree that you give to it. Match effort with effort, energy with energy. Our group rallies around businesses—especially new ones. When you invest in your community, it always finds a way to invest back in you.”
Want to hear the full conversation? Julie shares so much more about Pinckney’s transformation, heart-led leadership, and what makes the Pinckney Business Owners Group special. Listen to the complete Comfy Coffee Chat episode here: