Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Johnson.
Amy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Before I lived in Atlanta, I attended the University of Oklahoma where I obtained my Bachelors in Sports Medicine. I planned to attend Physical Therapy School but had a change of heart. I had danced and cheered for most of my childhood, so naturally I wanted to continue doing what I loved. My senior year had the honor of dancing for the NBA OKC Thunder dance team.
My first trip to Atlanta, I instantly fell in love with the culture and hustle of the city. So after graduating, I auditioned for the Atlanta Hawks dance team and landed a spot out of hundreds of hopefuls. I then decided to audition for one of the most well-known professional dance agencies in Atlanta. After being signed, I was able to perform with some of the top artists and actors in the industry. I then knew Atlanta was THE place to be!
I soon left my agency and started teaching for Fulton County Schools. Teaching was very rewarding, but it didn’t allow any time to still be creative. Needing some sort of creative outlet, I started a photography and videography company, Milani Visuals, in 2018. A lot of my friends work in entertainment and always needed professional photos and I had the eye for art so it only made sense. I enjoy shooting portrait and fashion photography. Though I typically shoot with a lot of dancers and models, anyone is welcome to get in front of my camera.
After the pandemic hit, I spent a lot of time studying new industries, talking with mentors, and exploring recession proof businesses. I then decided to become a Realtor and signed with PalmerHouse Properties. One of my goals as a Realtor is to help more people of color become homeowners. I am currently serving on the Atlanta Realtors Affordable & Equitable Housing Committee, so I may better serve my community and peers. While studying for my real estate exam, I was simultaneously building a transportation and logistics business. I had smashed two goals in a matter of months. I now have my own authority and trucking company. We are currently hiring experienced drivers for 2022.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There will always be challenges when you are trying new things. The biggest struggle was entering into a field I knew absolutely nothing about. I second-guessed myself many times, but the key was I never gave up. I did my research, made a plan and put it into action. I believe the biggest blessing is having a mentor. They have been there and already made the mistakes so you may have a smoother ride.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am currently a Realtor at PalmerHouse Properties. We have several offices in Atlanta, one most recently opened in Marietta. I specialize in residential, investment properties, relocation, and luxury properties. I am most excited to serve my community and peers in finding their dream home or investment property. I go above and beyond to make sure each experience is custom fit for each of my clients. I believe staying up to date and knowledgeable is imperative to stay proficient and better serve my clients. Whether you are looking to buy or sell your home, I have the best team and resources to help you find the perfect piece of real estate.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I firmly believe that you have to try something different to get to that place you really want to be. It may make you uncomfortable and may not happen overnight, but you have to try. It’s only when you stop trying that you fail. My biggest risk to date has been becoming full-time as an entrepreneur. I’ve always worked for an employer. It’s a safe bet and the check comes on time, but my growth was being stunted and my potential wasted. I always knew that it would be challenging stepping out on my own but worth it in the end. No risk-no reward!
Contact Info:
- Email: AmyJsellsGA@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bl4ck.amy/
- Other: www.instagram.com/milanivisuals/
Image Credits:
Milani Visuals
