Jannie Williams' impoverished childhood, her tragic life experiences, and the business lessons and strategies she learned provide practical applications for anyone whose goals are to become successful in real estate, especially those who are starting like she did - with little money, but plenty of desire and ambition.

As a youngster growing up on a Tennessee cotton farm, Jannie made a pact with herself: she would one day overcome her family's poverty and become financially independent. It was a bold idea without a plan. What mattered, though, was her strong desire and belief that she would somehow eventually succeed.

Her poor life choices - in her teenage years and as a young adult - exacerbated her hardships. In marriage, her husband controlled her money. At the beginning of her professional career in public health, she was denied her first job because no one wanted to hire a Black dental hygienist. Racism thwarted other opportunities in subsequent years.

In real estate, Jannie found her path to financial freedom. Along the way, she discovered herself and a newfound joy in family life.