We had the good fortune of connecting with Aatara Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aatara, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
In my mind, you should never give up on your dreams. Choosing to embark on a creative path can be extremely hard and many times the goal of success, however you define it, may seem impossible but it is obtainable. For me, I knew to keep going with my podcast because of the feedback I received from my audience. If you gained the attention and support of one person then you are doing something worth fighting for. Plus, if you gained one supporter you know you can gain more whether it is locally, nationally or internationally. I encourage people who are thinking about giving up to sit down and rethink their idea. Stop viewing your idea as a hobby and re-visualize it as a business. From there figure out what you are doing great, what areas need adjustments and create SMART goals for yourself. For additional inspiration, I suggest reading success stories because you will realize that many individuals had a similar start.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community? What sets you apart from others?
I’m the proud Producer and Host of the podcast, Tarascope. What sets the Tarascope Podcast apart from all other relationship based podcasts is that I’m not coming as an expert. So look at me as a friend having open, judgement free conversations about what you might have experienced while dating in this generation. You’ll hear me, and occasionally special guests, as we share our blunt opinions on everything from colorism, overcoming insecurities, dating someone with kids, to scandalous celebrity drama. But to be honest, it hasn’t always been easy being a solo podcast producer. I’m adjusting to the responsibilities and learning to trust the process as well as myself. I have learned to ask for advice more, outsource tasks to create a cohesive brand image and BREATHE! It’s so cliche but things worth having does not come easy. I am proud that I did not quit and that I am recording episodes for Season Three – so keep an eye out! Overall, when you listen to my podcast, Tarascope, know that you are getting real stories of love and love lost.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As a low-key homebody and a certified chiller, I have found a few keys spots I love in Atlanta, GA. I love going to the Beltline to relax and drink, especially the Beltline near Edgewood Ave. My favorite three restaurants over there is Playa Bowl, Bell Street Burritos and Hawkers Asian Street Fare. Another area I frequent is Downtown Decatur. I like vibing in The Square, getting a coffee and a scone from B-Side or grabbing food from The Square Pub. For brunch I love going to Folk Art (Iman Park location) or Rise-n-Dine. If you want a more day party vibe I suggest going to Ms. Iceys Kitchen & Bar, the food is A-1. Some of my other go-to places are Cru Hookah Lounge, Tin Lizzy Grant Park for the rooftop, the Buckhead Bars, Buckhead Saloon on a Sunday and any Jeni’s Ice Cream location.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest support system has been my immediate family which consist of my three sisters and my mother. When I am beating myself up about the progress of my podcast they remind me that the content I am creating is good and things do not happen overnight. My sister, Fatiyha Johnson – Fashion Stylist of Style Provoking, has become a true rock and has reminded me several times that I am worthy of the success I am working to achieve. I go to her with topic ideas, marketing ideas, etc… and she always gives me honest feedback which is invaluable. I also have to acknowledge Danielle Hairston, Founder and Creative Director of Poised Studios who has handled my Public Relations and Corey Jones who has created my graphic designs. Some additional people I would like to shout out are my friends – Terriana, Rebecca and Qua. When I need them they are always there and cheering for me on the sidelines!

Website: tarascope.com
Instagram: @tarascope_
Twitter: @tarascope_

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