Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracie Howard Dickerson.
Hi Tracie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hi there! It’s an honor to be on this platform, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story with you all. After graduating from Georgia State University, I landed my first adult job in Sales with Xerox Corporation. I worked hard and eventually earned the distinction of being a President’s Club recipient on multiple occasions. But, I was hungry for more, so I joined Johnson & Johnson, where I sold neurosurgical instruments. My hard work and dedication paid off, and I was eventually promoted to Director of Sales at American Express.
During my career, I was granted a leave of absence to work with the Atlanta Committee for The Olympic Games in Marketing. It was an exhilarating period for my hometown, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. Afterward, I returned to American Express in New York, where I began to explore my creative side. I wrote my first novel, “Revenge Is Best Served Cold,” which led to a multi-book publishing deal with Penguin Putnam and opened up a new chapter in my life as a novelist.
My love for travel and passion for writing eventually led me to become the Travel & Lifestyle Editor and Columnist for Savoy Magazine. On trips to the South of France and Senegal, I discovered an artist whose work inspired my company, Ethos. We sold wearable artifacts primarily at auction, and I fell in love with the African continent. In fact, I later taught a Western Culture course at one of the premiere business schools in West Africa, Institut Superieur de Management.
After my adventures abroad, I returned to my hometown of Atlanta and became the publisher for The Atlanta Tribune, The Atlanta Daily World, and Who’s Who in Black Atlanta. But, I was not done yet. My husband and I built and designed Trinity Treehouse (www.trinitytreehouse.com), which has become a travel destination for many throughout the nation and the world. With 186 amazing reviews (4.98 out of 5!), I see it as my magnum opus, a culmination of my love of art, travel, and marketing.
Throughout my career and life, I have sought evolution, experiences, and a thirst for all that life has to offer. I can’t wait to see what other incredible adventures lie ahead!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
During my career journey, I faced several challenges that tested my resilience and adaptability. One such challenge was the 2008 recession, which had a significant impact on my company, Ethos. As a high-end African artifact seller, our sales dwindled as customers were less willing to invest in luxury items.
However, instead of letting this obstacle define me, I decided to pivot and explore new opportunities. I accepted a position as a visiting professor in Dakar, Senegal. Although teaching was a new experience for me, I embraced it as an opportunity to expand my skillset and broaden my horizons and impact young minds.
Looking back, I wouldn’t describe my career journey as a smooth road. However, these challenges have helped me develop a growth mindset and taught me to remain flexible and adaptable in the face of adversity.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an accomplished author, fashionista, and political junkie, and have demonstrated passion and success in each area . My fiction writing was groundbreaking, depicting African American characters living upscale and professional lifestyles in a genre that was previously under-charted territory. The seven novels I have published have received critical acclaim and have helped to diversify the literary landscape.
In the world of fashion, I am known as a trendsetter and style icon, gracing several best-dressed lists, including Vanity Fair’s International Best Dressed list. My keen eye for fashion and classic taste have made me a role model for many.
When it comes to politics, I have made history as part of Barack Obama’s 2008 Finance Committee, contributing to one of the most groundbreaking presidential campaigns in American history. My unwavering belief in his ability to win was not unlike his own, and I am proud to have played a part in that historical achievement.
What sets me apart is my relentless drive to succeed in every endeavor I undertake. I firmly believe that, barring physical limitations, there is very little that cannot be accomplished with hard work and focus. My accomplishments in the literary world, fashion, and politics have inspired others, and I continue to strive for excellence in all that I do.
What matters most to you? Why?
When it comes to what matters most to me, I would say that being secure in the love and support of my husband, family, and friends is invaluable. This is because having a strong support system allows me to be my best self and face any challenge with confidence.
Winning or losing is not the defining factor for me. Instead, I feel blessed to have a circle of loving and positive people in my life who I can count on to celebrate my victories, lift me up during my defeats, and offer guidance and encouragement when I need it most.
Furthermore, I believe that the love and support of family and friends are vital for maintaining good mental and emotional health. When I am feeling down or uncertain, I know that I can turn to those closest to me for comfort and reassurance. This gives me the courage and strength to face any obstacle that comes my way.
In conclusion, what matters most to me is having a strong support system of loving and positive people who believe in me and my dreams. They provide a sense of security and belonging that is priceless, and I am truly grateful for their presence in my life.
Pricing:
- Nightly Treehouse Rate: $325.00
Contact Info:
- Website: TrinityTreehouse.com
- https://www.airbnb.com/h/trinitytreehouse
- Instagram: @TracieHowardDickerson
Image Credits
Donna Permed
