Today we’d like to introduce you to Takiyah Watkins.
Hi Takiyah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started after my grandmother passed away in 2018. I fell into a deep depression and was searching for an outlet to cope with the grief. Not long after, COVID hit and like many, my world turned completely upside down. I was working on the front lines in the medical field, serving underserved communities, while also holding down a job at Lowe’s, another essential front-line environment( believe it or not) . The stress, anxiety, and emotional weight were at an all-time high. I needed a release that was something beyond words.
Years prior, my daughter had introduced me to the concept of rage rooms after seeing them online and said how we needed one in Athens. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. But during those dark, heavy days, the idea came back to me and it made perfect sense. The idea of having a space where people could experience “controlled chaos” as a form of release and healing really resonated with us.
That’s when Insanity Rage Room Athens was born. All from pain, pressure, and the real need for a space that encourages emotional expression in a safe and healthy way. It’s more than just smashing things. It’s therapy for those who may not have the words but still need to be heard.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There were definitely struggles when it came to finding a location. It took me a couple of years and a lot of persistence but by the grace of God, I was able to secure the amazing space we have now. I truly owe it all to the Most High.
During the search, I ran into a lot of hesitation from landlords. Many were uncomfortable with the concept of a rage room, especially when they learned it involved intentionally breaking items and throwing them against walls. The nature of the business made some property owners nervous, and I was told “no” multiple times . But I kept the faith and stayed committed to the vision and eventually, the right space aligned at the right time.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Insanity Rage Room Athens, we strive to serve our community one rage session at a time. Our mission is rooted in helping people navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress in a way that’s healthy, safe, and even empowering.
What sets us apart is the level of care and intentionality we pour into every guest experience. This isn’t just a place to break things but a space to release emotions, reset your mindset, and reclaim your peace. We take the time to listen to our customers, understand what they may be going through, and tailor their session to create a safe, judgment-free environment that feels meaningful and personal.
We specialize in what you could call “controlled chaos with compassion.” Whether you’re coming to celebrate, decompress, or cope with something heavy, we want you to walk away feeling lighter and more in control than when you came in.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that we’ve built something that’s more than a business . It’s a form of emotional therapy for the community. We want readers to know that Insanity Rage Room Athens isn’t just about destruction – it’s about healing, transformation, and creating space for emotions that are often hard to express.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
To be honest, we didn’t have a mentor or a network to lean on when we started . It was truly just a leap of faith. Sometimes, you have to trust your vision, believe in your purpose, and just start. That’s what worked for us: having an idea, staying committed, and executing with everything we had.
What’s also helped is our location. We’re right on West Broad Street in Athens, GA, and our little black building definitely catches people’s attention. A lot of our bookings come from people who just happen to drive by and get curious enough to stop in or look us up. So visibility and presence matter, especially for local businesses.
If I had to give advice, it would be: don’t wait for the perfect mentor or connection to make a move. Start where you are with what you have. The right people, resources, and opportunities will begin to align once you take that first step.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.insanityrageroomathens.com/
- Instagram: Insanity rageroom
- Email: Insanityrageroomathens@gmail.com
Image Credits
Tatyana Watkins-Hudson
