Nancy Ragonese is an entrepreneur, community advocate, and equestrian enthusiast based in Aiken, South Carolina. Growing up on a family-owned farm, she developed a deep appreciation for the region’s equestrian culture, small businesses, and tight-knit community. She channeled that passion into her professional life, founding Palmetto Pathways, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainable tourism and supporting local businesses. A lifelong advocate for community-driven initiatives, she believes in balancing professional ambition with personal fulfillment. In this interview, Nancy shares her insights on productivity, innovation, and what it takes to make a lasting impact.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
No two days are ever the same, but that’s part of what keeps things exciting. Mornings usually start early on the farm—I check in on the horses, take a few quiet moments outside, and then dive into my work. The first part of my day is spent strategizing—whether it’s planning upcoming initiatives for Palmetto Pathways, meeting with community partners, or working on projects that help local businesses grow. In the afternoons, I make time for hands-on work, whether it’s organizing an event, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or visiting local farms and businesses.
To stay productive, I prioritize what truly moves the needle—I focus on work that aligns with my goals rather than getting caught up in busywork. I also schedule breaks to reset, whether it’s a ride through the trails or a quick walk to clear my head.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I start by making sure an idea aligns with my core values. If it’s something that will positively impact the community, I dig deeper. I talk to people—business owners, local leaders, friends—because real insights always come from listening. From there, I create a simple but actionable plan and take the first small step. Even the best ideas will stall if you overthink them. You have to be willing to try, refine, and adapt as you go.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The rise of purpose-driven businesses excites me. More people are looking for ways to blend profitability with sustainability and community impact. Whether it’s regenerative farming, ethical tourism, or small businesses prioritizing local sourcing, I love seeing people redefine success in a way that benefits more than just their bottom line.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Setting non-negotiable boundaries around my time. I used to say yes to everything, but I’ve learned that saying no to what doesn’t serve my bigger vision allows me to say yes to what truly matters. If something isn’t aligned with my values or goals, I step back without guilt.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stop worrying about having a perfect plan. Just start. You’ll learn and adjust along the way. Also, invest in relationships—the people around you will be your greatest source of opportunities, support, and wisdom.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that slower growth is sometimes the best kind of growth. The world constantly tells us to move fast, scale quickly, and chase the next big thing. But real, sustainable success comes from deep roots, not fast expansion. I’d rather build something meaningful over time than rush and lose sight of why I started.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I make time for reflection and recalibration. Every month, I take a step back to assess what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change. It’s easy to get lost in the momentum of doing, but taking time to pause ensures you’re headed in the right direction.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I go outside. Nature resets me instantly. Whether it’s riding my horse, gardening, or just taking a few deep breaths in fresh air, stepping away from the noise helps me refocus with clarity and intention.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Leading with authenticity and generosity. Whether in business or community work, people are drawn to those who genuinely care. The more you give—without expecting immediate returns—the more opportunities naturally flow back to you.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my career, I launched an initiative without fully understanding my audience’s needs. It didn’t gain traction, and I had to pivot quickly. The lesson? Always listen before you act. Assumptions won’t get you far, but real conversations with real people will.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A community-driven agritourism experience that connects visitors directly with small farms. It would provide hands-on learning, farm-to-table dining, and interactive experiences that promote sustainability and local food systems. Aiken has the perfect backdrop for something like this!
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I love using Notion to organize my thoughts, track projects, and map out long-term goals. It keeps everything in one place, so I can easily reference ideas and progress without getting overwhelmed.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert. It’s a powerful reminder that creativity isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up and doing the work. It’s inspired me to trust the creative process, even when the outcome is uncertain.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently rewatched “Chef”—it’s a great reminder of why passion, resilience, and staying true to your vision matter. It’s also a love letter to food, culture, and community—three things I deeply care about.
Key learnings
- Sustainable success takes time. Instead of chasing rapid growth, focus on building strong foundations and lasting relationships.
- Authenticity and generosity lead to opportunities. The more you invest in people and purpose, the more opportunities naturally come your way.
- Balance requires intention. Productivity isn’t just about working harder; it’s about knowing when to pause, realign, and refocus on what truly matters.