We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rachel Johnson. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Rachel, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity, hands down. That shows me who you really are at your core and how you move when nobody’s watching. If I can’t trust your character, I don’t care how smart or high-energy you are, you won’t be in my circle. Integrity earns you access….it’s the foundation for everything: trust, collaboration, and real connection. Without it, nothing else matters.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Rachel “Rae Denise” Johnson a Baltimore-born visionary, creative strategist, and community builder passionate about helping purpose-driven people turn ideas into impact. I lead Limitless Strategies, where I partner with faith-based organizations, entrepreneurs, non-profits and civic leaders to build brands that are rooted in culture, clarity, and community.
Whether I’m managing social media for clients like #MyBmore Project or Marley’s Bar & Grill, working on my upcoming podcast (@prayerpurposeprosecco), curating corporate events for clients like Howard Community College or helping others bring their visions to life—I don’t just design brands, I build movements. My work lives at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and spiritual alignment. It’s never surface-level. Every message, campaign, or moment I touch is built to feel like home.
I’m Morgan Made, legacy-minded, and committed to elevating Black voices, faith-fueled ideas, and stories that deserve to be seen. At the core of everything I do is purpose and I let that lead me every step of the way.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother, Denise. She’s always seen me clearly, fully, and without hesitation. She’s believed in every vision, every dream, even the ones I was too scared to believe in myself. Even when I played small, she never let me be small. She’d always remind me, especially in moments of doubt, “Rachel, you’re a BIG FISH. You’re doing great things.” That’s my girl. Her words echo in every room I walk into.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
ABSOLUTELY. I’m in my sixth year of entrepreneurship, but in 2023 I almost walked away from it all. That year came in heavy and left even heavier. It felt like it had its foot on my neck the entire time. Nothing was flowing, doors were closing, and I questioned everything.
But 2023 was also the year God reminded me loud and clear to trust Him no matter what it looks like. To keep the faith even when it felt like I had nothing left. Now, in 2025, I’m so grateful I didn’t quit. But even more than that, I’m thankful that God continues to show me there’s so much more ahead. That life really does shift when you stop trying to control everything and surrender it all back to Him.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
The people closest to me would probably say I’ve got a heart for helping people win, and they’d be right. I care deeply about making sure the people connected to me feel seen, celebrated, and fully supported. Whether it’s business or life, I want you to know “your dream is possible, you matter, and I’m in your corner.” Always.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Truthfully… I believe I’m doing exactly what I was born to do. There are a few reasons I know this for sure. First, God keeps putting me in rooms I never imagined I’d be in. I’ve seen doors open not because of who I know, but because of whose I am.
Before I stepped into full-time entrepreneurship, I prayed to be out of my 9–5 at the NAACP National Headquarters and fully operating in my purpose by the end of the following year. God moved me out in less than three months. And every time I let fear convince me to consider going back to a 9–5, He made it so uncomfortable that I had no choice but to trust what I prayed for.
So no, I’m not doing what I was told to do. I’m walking in what I was CALLED to do. I’ve learned that when it’s a God move, you don’t need a fallback plan…you just need faith.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @itsraedenise
Image Credits
Professional Headshots by Terrell Anderson @tdapro_
