Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Shuman.
Hi Shawn, 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?
I have always made a path and trusted that good things would happen if I worked hard and persevered. I remember thinking so many times that I had a steeper hill to climb, and my objective for much of my life was to survive. To this day, I sometimes question my own success because I never dreamed that I would be so fortunate. One of the things that might surprise people is that one of my early careers was working in the juvenile detention system as a probation officer. I often reflect on that period of time and how helping people find “the right path” has been a personal passion of mine. In my early 20s, I eventually began a career in retail banking. My early success was in part the result of fear of failure and never wanting to let anyone down, my boss, my clients, myself. Reflecting on that time, it cemented my love of being part of a team and understanding that my work ethic was something that could propel my success. I stayed in Retail banking even after moving to Georgia. Several years ago, I took a chance at moving into a business banking role, helping small businesses succeed. I never imagined my experience as a business banker would not only prepare me for but also lead me to being a small business owner myself.
My passion for animals started at a young age. I found an escape from the chaos around me through animals. The unconditional love they have is unmatched and I would spend hours loving on, playing with or trying to help homeless animals in my neighborhood. As I got older, I volunteered at local shelters and fostered animals in need of homes.
Beyond my grit, the other thing that defines me is my genuine caring for people. I think the challenges in my life have given me an extra level of empathy for those who don’t have an easy road. Ironically it was that level of empathy that introduced me to the previous owner of Bark Avenue who needed help with her PPP loan during the pandemic. I just wanted to be helpful, but that act of kindness resulted in a relationship that later would give me an opportunity to purchase the business I own today.
One of my greatest joys is naming my company’s legal name after my dad. He passed away in 2020 and I credit him for my exterior toughness and internal kindness. Once you got past his gruff and not always politically correct exterior, he was deeply committed to helping less fortunate people find their way. As an ironworker, he mentored and coached countless young men and women, helping them find a better path. He believed in helping people. He was my hero and I know he is watching over me with a great sense of pride.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have had numerous challenges in my life. For example my parents were not always in a position to help me understand how to be successful. They were mostly busy working themselves. Along the way, I have made all the mistakes that a young person could make but somehow stayed away from those mistakes that could have taken me down more disastrous dead ends.
Like many people, I doubt myself and question my own success. It is both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because I have never take my success for granted and constantly look to improve myself and my business. There are times, however that I wish I felt the level of success and satisfaction that others see in me. I have grown to understand that many people struggle with embracing their own success. I believe that people who have success in their lives should help others understand that perfection is not obtainable. Everyone has their own challenges, and success is reaching a point of appreciation for your god given gifts and accepting our flaws as a part of being our unique self.
We’ve been impressed with Bark Avenue Pet Resort, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Just like humans, some pups like to stick to themselves. This is why Bark Avenue provides both social and non-social daycare! If your dog prefers human interaction, they will receive a minimum of 5 walks per day or playtime in our spacious outdoor areas! For the pups who like to play with others, we create small playgroups tailor-made to your dog’s size and personality. In addition, we board and provide daycare for dogs intact.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to build on my success. I am an idea person and a person who follows their passions. Owning a business gives me the freedom to explore my ideas and decide to chase those that I feel strongly about. It’s also such a privilege to be in a position to employ people and provide them with a chance at a better life and at the same time work everyday in an environment where I am around animals all day. Over time I hope to expand what I am doing currently and perhaps even branch out in different facets of pet care. Dog parks, veterinary clinics, etc. who knows!
Contact Info:
- Email: barkavenuepetresortatl@gmail.om
- Website: www.barkavenuepetresort.com
- Instagram: barkave_atlanta
Image Credits:
Jaxon Photogroup jaxonmanning@jaxonphotogroup.com
