An Architect, A Journalist, An Entrepreneur and An Attorney Meet The Storytellers on CityBox Diary
Interviewed By Maryan Aiken
THE CITYBOX DIARY
The CityBox Diary is collection of mini-interviews spotlighting entrepreneurs + business professionals to help inspire, inform, & connect. It’s a quick glimpse of brief business stories direct from business owners, corporate professionals, and entrepreneurs. It’s a place where they collectively share their business journey, exciting projects, collabs, & experiences that sometime brought hard lessons & setbacks but loaded with electrifying & exhilarating aha moments & of course, those memorable game changers that catapulted their stories to a whole new height of dizzying triumphs. Welcome to the CityBox Diary, a place where you can instantly & meaningfully connect to expand your network.
Maryan Aiken. Founder. CEO. Publisher. CityBox Media LLC
CONNECT. SUPPORT. EXPAND
Shot on location by Maryan Aiken
William Joseph Carpenter, FAIA, PhD, LEED AP
Professor of Architecture and Urbanism Kennesaw State University College of Architecture and Construction Management
Founder & President of Lightroom In Atlanta and Brazil www.lightroom.tv www.designbuildstudio.com
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DIOR
Sauvage is an act of creation inspired by wide-open spaces. A composition marked by a raw freshness, powerful and noble all at once.
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ABOUT LIGHROOM
Architects, Graphic and Interior Designers
Lightroom is a multidisciplinary design and architecture practice with headquarters in Atlanta Georgia and a satellite studio in Sao Luis, Brazil. Our primary focus is modern, sustainable residential and commercial architecture. We also provide a range of professional services in interior design, landscape architecture, and branding, as well as website and graphic design. Lightroom is celebrated internationally for the quiet and restrained rigor of its designs and its creative accommodation of site demands and opportunities, particularly those inherent in the landscape, climate, and design vernaculars of the American South.
ABOUT DR. WILLIAM CARPENTER, PHD
Dr. William Carpenter FAIA has made a lasting, indelible and meaningful impact and contribution to international architectural pedagogies in education and practice through his influential writings, lectures, teaching, leadership and research on design-build education and multi-disciplinary practices. His nationally award-winning firm; Lightroom, has designed many projects in Atlanta and works in several disciplines including film production, graphic design, branding and websites and modern architecture. He is past president of AIA Atlanta and AIA Georgia and received its highest honor; the Rothschild Medal.
He was awarded the National Distinguished Professor Medal; one of the highest honors an educator can receive from the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture and served as Chancellor of the College of Distinguished Professors with this organization. He is currently serving as part of the editorial and curatorial team for the Biennale di Venezia Italian Pavilion, which opened in August 2020 in Venice, Italy. He recently delivered a keynote address at Ars Electronica in Linz, Austria; one of the most respected design conferences in Europe.
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LIGHTROOM
LIGHTROOM IS A MULTIDISCIPLINARY DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE WITH HEADQUARTERS IN ATLANTA GEORGIA AND A SATELLITE STUDIO IN SAO LUIS, BRAZIL.
Q: Give us a glimpse of what a typical day is like for you?
I begin my day waking at about 5 am where I will make a ginger and fennel tea (usually by yogi) light a candle and read a poem. Today’s poem is by Wendell Berry and I’ve used it many times lately as it makes me think of Lightroom 30a, my life and the world today. My favorite poems lately come from Berry, Collins, Dickenson, Gorman, Power and Faulkner.
The poem is a way to express gratitude and I will spend some time reflecting and praying (and positive energy) for people I know, and sometimes don’t know and then I will express gratitude for the day, and I’ll write out a list of what to do today. When I was writing my PhD dissertation and preparing for my VIVA in England, I would wake at 3 am and work until my daughters awoke which is where I discovered this still and inspirational time and way to work. I use a Mont Blanc Meisterstuck pen with dark blue-black indigo ink; my mentor (Norman Jaffe FAIA) gave me this pen. At about 7 am I will work out in a 100/20/20 workout; 100 sit-ups, 20 curls, 20 bench presses and then 10-20 squats. A walk of about 2-3 miles when the weather is good is also a good idea. (Before Corona I would replace this with 20 laps in the pool at the YMCA.) I make a tea for Celma & start her car to warm it up.
Q: What exciting projects are you currently working on?
I am working on a new painting exhibition, a chapter for a book in Italy, composing a musical piece for a major exhibition also in Italy and designing a project for clients I have been working with for over 20 years in Decatur and a new housing project in Brazil.
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La’Tasha Givens
Emmy Award Winning Reporter/ Anchor
WXIA 11Alive News (NBC Atlanta)
Hits 92.3 The Business Brief Radio Show, Host
Instagram @latashagivens1 @latashagivens1 Facebook LinkedIn La’Tasha Givens
Charity Involvement
Permission To F.L.Y. (Fully Love Yourself) favorite charity, an Atlanta-based nonprofit supporting women and girls with visible, rare medical conditions.
ABOUT LA’TASHA GIVENS
La’Tasha Givens is a two-time Emmy Award-winning television news Reporter/ Anchor who has worked in multiple news markets across the country. La’Tasha has been a reporter at 11Alive News in Atlanta since 2015, covering everything from crime to severe weather, to politics. She is also the host of The Business Brief radio show on Hit s 92.3. The live show takes listeners behind the scenes of emerging careers and top industries around Georgia. The show has earned accolades for its focus on local entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations.
Q: If you can redo something in the past, what will it be and why?
I’m grateful to have a successful career in television news and (previously) public relations, if I had the opportunity to do it over, I would be more strategic when it comes to planning, timing, and salaries. There are times in my career when I stayed in positions longer than I should have out of loyalty to the company or team even after it no longer benefited me. I also accepted positions with salaries below my skill set and experience out of obligation not realizing how it could affect the trajectory of my career.
Q: Three things that we need to know about you.
The three most important things to know about me are how much my faith, family, and purpose are integral to my personal and professional life choices. My faith and commitment to continued spiritual growth is my top priority. It’s the foundation for everything. Being a wife of 18 years and a mother of three is how I spend most of my time and intentions. I also believe I’m here to serve a greater purpose. I believe any opportunity I have, is because I should make that situation better than before I came.
Q: What are the most satisfying moments in your career?
As a journalist, each day is an adventure. I never know whom I will meet and what my story will be for the day. The most rewarding times are when I’m able to be a catalyst for change. Whether it’s being a voice to others and sharing their life story, capturing local history for the day, or helping members of my community seek justice, I like ending the day knowing my work meant something valuable to someone else.
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Sauvage is an act of creation inspired by wide-open spaces. A composition marked by a raw freshness, powerful and noble all at once.
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UNIVERSITY KIA
Premier Alabama Kia Dealer, we have a huge selection of new and used vehicles from which to choose. University Kia online and offline customers enjoy vehicle specials every day. We offer Kia service & parts, an online inventory, and outstanding financing options, making University Kia a preferred dealer serving Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Athens, Scottsboro, Gurley, Brownsboro, Cullman, Fayetteville, Harvest, Lacey Springs, New Hope, Normal, Owens Cross Road and Valhermoso Springs area Kia buyers. Ready to set up a test drive? Visit our Madison area Kia dealership in Huntsville, AL today!
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PARTS: 256-217-1700
(800) 542-3325
Eric Williams Photography
Arthur G. Seaton ll
Alabama A&M University
Managing Partner. University Kia
Established 2009 Number of employees: 75
6519 University Drive NW. Huntsville, Al 25806
256-217-1700 www.univeristykia.com
Charity Involvement:
s.t.a.r.s (students that are reaching success) Christian Job Corps . Tim Tebow Night to Shine. Many local schools and churches. Team Freeze- Suporting local families. The Life Family Christian Center. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
ABOUT UNIVERSITY KIA
As a premier Alabama Kia Dealer, we have a huge selection of new and used vehicles from which to choose. University Kia online and offline customers enjoy vehicle specials every day. We offer Kia service & parts, an online inventory, and outstanding financing options, making University Kia a preferred dealer serving Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Athens, Scottsboro, Gurley, Brownsboro, Cullman, Fayetteville, Harvest, Lacey Springs, New Hope, Normal, Owens Cross Road and Valhermoso Springs area Kia buyers. Ready to set up a test drive? Visit our Madison area Kia dealership in Huntsville, AL today!
Q: University Kia has been named the #1 Kia Dealership in the State of Alabama for a decade. Congratulations! What lessons have you learned that shifted your mindset to optimize your leadership?
I have had many lessons that shifted my mindset. One being to never judge a book by its cover. I have 78 employees and I’m constantly growing my business, so I’ve learned that it isn’t always what is on someone’s resume that defines them. There are a lot of great people that haven’t been given the opportunity to excel in their career due to being judged on their appearance not on their character. I learned how important it is to meet someone and look them in the eyes before placing any judgement on them. I have gained some incredible employees due to this shift in mindset. The most important lesson I have learned is to be a cheerful giver. There is nothing better than giving back to the community. When your city sees your commitment to giving back, you gain their respect and support. At University Kia, we donate every month to help support organizations.
Q: What was the game changer for you that catapulted the direction of your leadership?
I believe before you can become a great leader you must become a great follower, so I learned everything I possibly could about University Kia and started coming up with creative ways to grow the dealership. The game changer that catapulted my leadership role was when I was given the opportunity to star in University Kia’s TV commercials. I quickly became the face of the dealership and from there my brand exploded. Since then, we have shot over 100 commercials and we were just awarded Dealer of the Decade, which was a dream to accomplish.
Q: Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
Yes, my motto is hard work always pays off. The formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur is having goals and habits. Goals will provide a sense of direction and help you focus. Having effective habits give you the mental discipline to reach your goals. Another key factor is setting the right attitude – bringing a smile to work every day and always having positive energy.
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MERCEDES BENZ EXPERIENCE CENTER BY RBM OF ALPHARETTA LOCATED AT HALCYON FORSYTH
This experience center is the first of its kind in the U.S. It will echo the layout of successful Mercedes-Benz pop-up stores like the one that debuted in Atlanta in 2017, and will allow customers to interact with Mercedes-Benz technology and vehicle features for the ultimate user experience. What to look forward to at the RBM Mercedes-Benz HALCYON store.
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A place to celebrate, to unwind, to step away from the noise of life. An unexpected escape from the routine. Lush florals and innovative cocktails filled with whimsies warmly welcome you, while the sense of community and euphoria captivate one’s sense of belongingness. Welcome to The Garden Room.
88 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
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gardenroom@thegardenroomatlanta.com
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PALM 78
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5325 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004
Photo Credits: Kong Studios
Stephanie P. Graham, Attorney at Law
Wills, Trusts, Probate & Litigation, Graham Estate Planning
1-(888) 41WILLS | 1-888-419-4557
By Appointment: 6075 Barfield Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Instagram @spgraham Facebook @Stephanie P. Graham
ABOUT GRAHAM ESTATE PLANNING
Graham Estate Planning, a division of the Law Office of Stephanie P. Graham, LLC, is prepared to help you plan for tomorrow and prepare for the future. Graham Estate Planning specializes in all Estate Planning matters, from an initial Last Will and Testament to Administration to Probate and Litigation of an Estate. We work with family-oriented, forward thinkers, business owners and retired corporate executives who have families they love and a lot to lose.
The unfortunate reality is that death is an inevitability whether you are wealthy or not, young or old, sit at a desk or have a high risk job, are an employee or business owner, have a family or are single – you name it. No matter your circumstance, you need to plan for tomorrow and prepare for the future by protecting your family and preserving your assets for those you leave behind. The Law Office of Stephanie P. Graham, LLC, doing business as Graham Estate Planning, is specialized in all estate planning matters from Last Will & Testaments to Probate of an Estate, and we stand ready to not only help you protect your legacy, but to face the future with peace of mind.
ABOUT STEPHANIE GRAHAM
Stephanie P. Graham, LLC, is prepared to help you plan for tomorrow and prepare for the future. Graham Estate Planning specializes in all Estate Planning matters, from an initial Last Will and Testament to Administration to Probate and Litigation of an Estate. Attorney Graham have been practicing law for 21 years and, as a former prosecutor and business litigation attorney.
Q: What is the one thing that makes you most proud?
I walked away from a picture-perfect life 18 years ago. Materially, financially, I had everything I wanted including an inground pool and I walked away with nothing. 18 months later, I was an unemployed, brand new single mom and my divorce took two years. I didn't know if I was coming or going. I was in survival mode and famine for 14 years trying to recover and find myself. When I was married, I shared with my husband at the time that I wanted to be home with my kids when we had them and work for myself. He said that was the dumbest thing he ever heard because I had a law degree. Today, I have a daughter whom I've been home with for 9 of her 16 years and I have never missed any of her performances, activities, or awards. And I work for myself. I am doing exactly what I believe God called me to do and I didn't even know I wanted it. I am running a business while staying home with my daughter and making a difference in other people’s lives.
Q: How do you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I pray and script daily, meet new people I have nothing in common with, read and study everything about myself as an ENJZ, a business owner, a mom and I take classes to hone my practice on a regular basis as well as participate as a member with a few boards.
Q: How do you align your organization with your vision and mission?
Your Legacy. Our Mission. We believe estate planning is more than just wills or trusts. It is an act of love taken by those who care deeply about their families and desire to leave a legacy for them. Our mission is to help our clients plan for and protect the two most important things in their lives: the people they love and the assets they worked hard for. If your goal is to wreak havoc rather than harmony, we will not engage and will be happy to return your retainer. In doing so, we provide top quality holistic estate planning and related services delivered with personalized care.
I align my organization with my vision and my mission by educating, working with and supporting people and businesses who care about other people and businesses. I don't do what I do for the money. I do it because it's my purpose and it feels good.
Q: What is unique about your company and its services?
I started my business after my own grandmother passed away without a will. I have first-hand knowledge on how failing to plan for your loved ones affects your family. I also don’t ignore the client’s calls after services have been rendered. People who have retained other estate planning attorneys for probate end up calling my office to ask for guidance because the attorney they paid to handle probate stops answering their calls once the client is sworn in as the fiduciary. I also don’t require my clients to go through a receptionist to speak with me as long as they schedule a call-in advance.
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GRAHAM ESTATE PLANNING
PLAN FOR TOMORROW, PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE, PROTECT YOUR LEGACY. ATTORNEY STEPHANIE GRAHAM IS HELPING WOMEN & FAMILIES AVOID PROBATE. REACH OUT TO HER TODAY TO SEE HOW SHE CAN HELP YOU.
(888) 41WILLS Or (888) 419-4557
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Upscale, light-filled cafe & white-tablecloth restaurant featuring traditional French cuisine.
3027 Bolling Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
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PRINTSBURY
One-stop printing solutions company located in Dallas, TX, ships to your door, worldwide. We specialize in working with businesses and professionals. We keep the process simple and strive to have your product to you “by yesterday.”
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(214) 466-2982 (800) 697-7082
www.printsbury.com
Instagram: @printsbury Facebook @printsbury
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LADIES TURN
A world class professional Social Networking platform that is open to women seeking new methods for prosperity though innovation, leadership and digital transformation.
1-866-530-5858
Social Media Handles @ladiesturnglobal
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MOBU ENTERPRISES
We provide residential and commercial structures out of shipping containers in “real” life and “virtually.”
1700 Northside Drive Northwest, A7 #1118, Atlanta, Georgia [30318]
Company Phone Number: 888-412-8362 x 3
www.shippingliving.com www.shippingliving.net
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COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SOURCE AND INSTALLATION OF ATLANTA’S FINEST FLOORS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. CARPET. TILE
4365 Lynwood Ct, Douglasville, GA 30134
(678) 973-1572
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CityBox diary is a shared article feature. it’s a Quick Glimpse of Mini Business Stories Of Corporate Professionals, Business Owners, and Entrepreneurs
ABOUT CITYBOX DIARY
The CityBox Diary is a collection of mini-interviews spotlighting entrepreneurs + business professionals to help inspire, inform, & connect. It’s a quick glimpse of brief business stories direct from business owners, corporate professionals, and entrepreneurs. It’s a place where they collectively share their business journey, exciting projects, collabs, & experiences that sometime brought hard lessons & setbacks but loaded with electrifying & exhilarating aha moments & of course, those memorable game changers that catapulted their stories to a whole new height of dizzying triumphs. Welcome to the CityBox Diary, a place where you can instantly & meaningfully connect to expand your network.
Maryan Aiken. Founder. CEO. Publisher. CityBox Media LLC
CONNECT. SUPPORT. EXPAND
Elevate + Amplify Your Brand. Be the NEXT Interview on CityBox
For details email cityboxdaily@gmail.com
Listening to Spotify Every Step D.o.D
Executed on a grand scale the likes that Atlanta has never seen, Little Alley Steak Buckhead welcomes you to 9000-square-feet of understated, intimate opulence, boasting a seductive lounge and bar with over 400 bottles of the finest bourbon, whiskey and Scotch, multiple dining rooms, an outdoor climate-controlled bar and sprawling terrace as well as a secluded private dining room. Menu highlights include a wide variety of wet-aged, dry-aged and USDA prime steaks as well as the freshest hot and cold seafood in the southeast.