Local Highlighter Series

We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way – we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.

Tony McCoy

If I could tell my younger self just one kind thing, it would be this: keep pushing, and never stop believing in yourself. You’re so much better than you realize. The setbacks you’re facing? They’re not failures—they’re lessons. Each one is shaping you, strengthening you, and preparing you for the next level of your life. Read more >>>

Dejon Brooks

Buy bitcoin. Trust me, we would all be rich if we could go back in time and hoard it. But on a serious note, I would tell my younger self to do everything that I’m doing sooner. I’ve already done a lot as a 24 year old but I’ve wasted so much time due to the fear of failing. Read more >>>

Sarah Barnett

I’ve always been a creative, but in the past I would have kept many of my ideas on the shelf, ‘waiting for the right time’ to act on them. The past year, though, has been different. Read more >>>

Kyra Mitchell Lewis

I am being called to embrace visibility in a new way. For a long time, I felt safer pouring my energy into corporate leadership roles while keeping my creative dreams in the background. I was proud of Glow Up, Gyrl and Whimsy & Wonder Collective, but I didn’t always give myself permission to treat them as the powerful businesses they are. Read more >>>

Jaszy Shavers

I’m being called to stop shrinking and start taking the space that was always mine. For too long, I worried about being labeled ‘too much’ – too opinionated, too raw, too different. Now I see that’s the exact fuel that sets me apart. Read more >>>

Malia Alvina

I’m proud of building my confidence as a creative. There were so many times where I was paralyzed creatively out of fear of failure and fear of judgement and imperfection. Read more >>>

Carol M. Rey

Right now, I am most proud of building The Elite Socialite Foundation – the official nonprofit of The Elite School of Etiquette! Our 501c3 educational nonprofit will be providing etiquette, social development and arts/cultural excursions that will provide opportunities for youth who are underserved and underrepresented in our community. Read more >>>

Kimmie Riley

When I was younger, I believed that beautiful things were simply beautiful things. However, as I’ve aged, I’ve come to realize how much a thoughtfully designed space can truly impact a person’s life. An intentionally curated room can bring a sense of joy, calmness, and comfort. Moreover, special and collected items can evoke cherished memories and serve as daily inspirations. Read more >>>

Neisha Leigh

As a child I have always stood out. I was the child that was unique. In my younger years I refrained from being different. A moment I recall being the only child in class to use green scissors. Green ment the child was left handed. I then would go home to train myself to be right handed, to be like the other kids. Read more >>>

Drumz & Rosez

I like to sit in complete silence for the first 30mins of my day. No phone, no electronics, no distractions. Just myself & God. After that I will eat/find me something to eat, & once I’m done with that I’ll either jump on the game for about 30mins-60mins & then jump into music Read more >>>

Lauren Watson

The fear that has held me back the most in life is the fear of success. Upon deeper reflection, I realized that fear itself has often been the dominant narrative shaping my experiences. As I’ve progressed in life, I discovered that I also fear letting go of the comforts and habits of my former self. Read more >>>

Leticia Santiago-Jones

I believe wounds can be powerful teachers. That doesn’t mean I welcome suffering, or that I haven’t faced challenges I wish I could have skipped—my trauma began early. But over time, I’ve learned that leaning into pain creates space for growth and transformation. My wounds became a catalyst to rewrite my story. Read more >>>

Rachel Corbett-Alford

This is a deep question. Relationships with people will inevitably lead to some form of disappointment, disagreement or detachment, This is the nature of relationships. Some of the wounds that sting the most come from familial situations or close relationships that dissolved for various reasons. I can also say that in my naivety and ego, the most painful wounds were unconsciously self-inflicted. Read more >>>

Kenna Porter

I know my friends would say that my family & friends really matter to me. And they’d be right… I care so much about my relationships with others. I am probably a people pleaser, to a fault. Read more >>>

Matt Fowler

I had a number of positive influences growing up. My mother was steadfast that I would be the first of her children to attend college. From a very young age she instilled that confidence in me. I also had a few great teachers that identified my passions and pointed me toward them. Physically, my father gave me confidence at a young age. Read more >>>

Tiffany Portis

Yes, when it comes to The Location ATL, I absolutely feel that level of excitement. Every time I have clients, bookings, or events at the studio, it brings me so much joy. I love knowing that people have chosen my space, trusted me to help them record their podcast, or create their content. Read more >>>

SuperbBeatmaker

Most definitely! My goal has always to look from the underdogs perspective creatively. When I first started making producing I remember not receiving the attention I thought I deserved. I believe every artist deserves a chance no matter the outcome. I’ve definitely rooted and risked opportunities for an up and coming artist. Read more >>>

Courtney Ryan

Easy— if immortality were real, I would build an artist residency. Not just any residency, but a full-service creative hub with private studios drenched in natural light, access to every kind of facility— ceramics, print, sculpture, painting, photo, fibers, you name it— and resources like large-format color printers and a fully stocked supply studio with discounted materials for residents and the public. Read more >>>

Dedre Wilson, MBA. EA

If I laid down my name, my role, and every possession I own, what would remain is my ability to be a mother to my son. That, to me, is everything. Being Teagan’s mom is my greatest role and my greatest joy. Long after titles and material things fade, the legacy I leave through him will carry on. Read more >>>

Seven Chan

I’ve been working on the business for years but only recently I’ve decided its time to work on myself and my personal development. This year I’ve gone on a personal transformation, I’ve lost 30 lbs and visited 5 new countries and I’ve both been able to grow personally and professionally. Read more >>>

Courtney Rushing 

Right now, I’m really investing in my health with the long game in mind. Strength training, prioritizing protein, managing stress, and supporting my hormones aren’t just about how I look or feel today — they’re about setting myself up for tomorrow. Read more >>>

Kailey Hood

Bonds break when trust is lost whether through dishonesty, lack of communication, or when people stop truly listening to each other. Sometimes it isn’t one big event but small moments of neglect or unspoken assumptions that slowly create distance. What restores those bonds is often vulnerability being willing to admit fault, to share honestly, and to show up with empathy. Read more >>>

Kala Lewis

what often breaks the bonds between people is disconnection. When our environments don’t support gathering, communication, a sense of belonging or peace. Spaces that are cluttered, poorly designed, or lacking intention can create barriers and instability rather than connectivity. For example, a home without comfortable communal areas may unintentionally encourage isolation, while a workplace without thoughtful flow can make collaboration feel forced. Read more >>>

Brandi Holmes

I think what breaks bonds between people are lack of communication, broken trust, disrespect and growing apart. Sometimes, bonds don’t break all at once—they slowly fade due to little things adding up over time. Time can help heal, and if it’s meant to be, it will be. Read more >>>

Maureen Kornowa

Nonprofits are largely misunderstood. They are not perceived as ‘businesses’ since we are not looking to generate a ‘profit’. I beg to differ, nonprofit businesses have annual budgets, strategic plans, HR departments, employ members of our communities and our profits are measured in impact to others. Read more >>>

Justin Douglas

Honestly, what’s misunderstood is that people especially men often assume my life is one big glam session. They think because I work in beauty, I must be in full makeup 24/7, always “on.” But the truth is, this is my career, not my lifestyle. My media persona is about creating luxury moments and making clients camera-ready, but my personal life is much simpler. Read more >>>

Wileen Johnson

I believe one of the biggest struggles people carry quietly is their mental health. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are more common than most of us realize, yet they’re often hidden behind smiles, achievements, or busy schedules. Many people feel pressure to appear strong, so they mask their pain instead of admitting they’re overwhelmed. Read more >>>

Aleasa Word

I think the average person is struggling with self-forgiveness. Self-forgiveness requires us to take an honest look at ourselves and our behaviors. It means that we have to be authentic in the mirror and that’s not always fun. Because we are humans, we are naturally flawed. Read more >>>

Lotunja Wright

I think the biggest misunderstanding about my legacy will be the idea that I’m a “Jill of all trades.” That’s not who I am. I’m a skill stacker. Read more >>>

Efua class-peters

I think one thing people might misunderstand about me is that because the love of Christ shines so clearly through my life, they sometimes put me on a pedestal. They see the beauty, the talent, and the grace that God has placed in my heart and can idolize that as if it is mine alone. Read more >>>

Anthony Mobley Jr.

I believe that people often confuse confidence with arrogance. As one of the most humble individuals you will ever encounter, I would like to dedicate this article to the memory of Quiana Morton, a dear friend who passed away in 2017. Read more >>>

brian chandler

I think sometimes my musical sound can change quite a bit. But I release what I feel. I think some people get confused on whether I’m an alternative rock, singer, songwriter or a DJ. Those two options are certainly different but I feel like both. I think people get too fixated on labels. My music is what it is. Read more >>>

Tarisha Williams

That my legacy didn’t happen overnight. It was built on struggle, sacrifice, setbacks, and the kind of dedication that requires you to keep showing up even when it hurts. Every image I’ve created, every story I’ve told through my lens, comes from a place of lived experience; pain, resilience, faith, and perseverance. My vision has always been bigger than just taking beautiful photographs. Read more >>>

Dr. Tarryn Hoff, PhD

I think the biggest misunderstanding about my legacy might be that it’s about me. On the surface, people may see the personal training brand, the presentations, the PhD title, or the years of coaching and think my story is about individual achievement. But my legacy has never been about building a name—it’s about building people. Read more >>>

Rashod Stanley

The false labels I still carry are the ones tied to my past—felon, criminal, lost cause. Those words were stamped on me long before I had the chance to prove who I really was. And even now, sometimes people look at me and see my mistakes before they see my growth. The truth is, those labels cut deep. They follow you, they weigh on you. Read more >>>

Rob Malloy

That’s a fantastic question, and the truth I hold is one that can be difficult for many people to accept, especially in the context of dating. The truth is: Purpose must come before relationship. Very few people truly agree with this because our society has conditioned us to believe that finding a partner is the ultimate goal, the thing that completes you. Read more >>>

Christina Gault

No two days look the same here, and that’s what keeps it exciting. We usually kick things off by checking in on customer requests and updating designs — a lot of our projects are custom, so making sure clients are happy with their “version” before we start cutting is important. From there, the shop comes alive. Read more >>>

Victoria Nielson

My weekday alarm is set for 7:15am so that I can get my daughter up in time for school, but my internal clock usually wakes me around 6am. I choose that time to reflect on the day before, the day at hand and the day to come. That sounds a lot more poetic than it should but actually sometimes it is. Read more >>>

DJ Ms. Eclectic

Waking up with Music, Because what’s a day without music as a DJ. I have to start out with Gospel/Inspirational Music to get the day going! Prayer and then on to answering emails, calls and texts and prepping to-do lists. Preparation starts the day because being strategic is the key from interview questions for my show, Good Vibes with Ms. Read more >>>

Carlos Burke

A normal day for me is waking up at 6am. Starting my morning off with a quick meditation, 30 minute workout and coffee. (Without it I’m not nice). I begin checking emails, lost text messages and follow ups with clients that probably thinks I have a secretary on standby. Read more >>>

N’ova J

Right now there’s no such thing as a ‘normal day’ for me, and that’s the way I like it! My schedule is a wonderful mix of time in the studio creating new music, traveling the country with friends on tour, and constantly creating content. Read more >>>

Angel Simone

My potential. I’ve been sleeping on myself for a while — playing small, second-guessing my gifts, and holding back when I should’ve been shining. But I’m waking up now. That light is still there, and it’s time to let it shine unapologetically. Read more >>>

Sydney Warren

Without a second thought — my mother. She has been an unwavering force throughout my life. Through every twist in my story, she was there — cheering me on, offering advice, helping me celebrate both the quiet and loud wins. She helped me navigate loss and uncertainty, and she showed me the power of faith, grace, and perseverance. Read more >>>

Carolyn Duncan

I would say that over the years I’ve had many relationships that have helped guide me to where I am now, and I feel very blessed to have friends in the industry that I can call on for help and advice. But the person who has shaped me the most is my friend and mentor, Robert Crandall. Read more >>>

Brittney Pippins

My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I realized I could create something with my own two hands that people actually loved and wanted. I remember customizing sneakers and jean jackets right after high school—adding spikes, studs, and designs—and seeing people light up when they wore them. Read more >>>

Avonne Hogan

I would regret not following that inner voice that tells me there’s more, not pursuing my dreams, and the vision I’m bringing to life. Seeing it through is everything to me. Read more >>>

Daisy Godwin

I regret not starting creative jewelry work earlier in life. Eyes and hands are not failing yet but I can see the writing on the wall. Too many ideas and perhaps not enough time to complete them all. Read more >>>

Gergely Maklari-Kis

One of the most surprising things I’ve learned is how differently customers approach the same experience. Some groups come in laser-focused and methodical, while others are playful and chaotic but still manage to solve the puzzles. It showed me that people value the experience in very different ways—sometimes it’s about winning, and sometimes it’s about laughing together and making memories. Read more >>>

Willie D Davis

When have I felt most loved? Recently. within the past 5 months. After so many one way and dead end relationships, I finally found someone that not only brings me joy but makes me happy. We met officially at an acting class. We had been seeing each other in passing and at various events but never really introduced ourselves. Read more >>>

Angelle Morris

During this current season of my life I’ve felt loved the most. While before this time, I’ve never felt like I’ve deserved it but during this season after 40, I deserve all the love and some. Read more >>>

Najeedah Suber

I’m Najeedah and I’m currently learning from Emir. My 4-year-old son is teaching me some of life’s biggest lessons—like slowing down to think before I respond and learning to truly process my feelings. As parents, we all face “big emotions,” but the real question is: what are they trying to tell us? Read more >>>

LaTonya Holston

Every day, I have the chance to learn from the most valuable source I have, ME. By tuning into my own thoughts, feelings, and experiences, I have better understanding of my motivations and what truly matters to me. This kind of self-reflection helps me stay on my own path, rather than being pulled in different directions by outside influences or the expectations of others. Read more >>>

Tammy Thomas

Of course I would hire me! I have a rock solid work ethic. I get the job done, WITHOUT excuses Read more >>>