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

Hi Mandisa, what is the most important factor behind your success?
An important factor behind the success of the Atlanta Film and TV brand is that we strive to be a beacon of light. Our goal is to point those who are serious about a career in the film and television industry in the right direction. Secondly, there is no other outlet in the Film and Television Industry here in Atlanta that share the same knowledge, industry tips, and insights that we do.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Atlanta Film and TV exists to serve, empower, engage, and educate those who are a part of (or looking to become involved in) the Atlanta Film and TV community. What sets us apart from other businesses is that we’re capable of pointing people in the right direction as well as sharing industry knowledge, tips, and insights to those who are looking to start or enhance their career in the Atlanta Film and Television industry. Secondly, we have an eBook titled How To Jumpstart Your Acting Career in Atlanta and we are preparing to launch our coaching program. And lastly, we want to build Atlanta’s brand as the hub for Atlanta’s Film and Television through our Hollywood of The South merchandise.

We first launched Atlanta Film and TV when I was at the tail end of my Creative Writing, MFA program in 2016. I purchased the name Atlanta Film and TV, and wrote a few blogs here and there eventually letting the blog and the name Atlanta Film and TV go. In January 2019 I re-purchased Atlanta Film and TV and since then it’s thrived through blogs and interviews. I will say, there have been a few bumps in the road, such as getting readers to read what we’ve written or by getting our users involved and excited about what we’re bringing to the table. However, we are constantly learning daily how to best bring information to our users through video content and interacting with followers on social media. One of the lessons I’ve learned along the way is, even when people don’t believe in your vision (or see it how you do) you still have to stay true to what you know is right.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend comes back to visit Atlanta, I would love for her to experience waiting in line at the SluttyVegan and tasting the deliciousness of their vegan burgers. Afterward, we’d do a little shopping at my favorite accessory boutique, Ink & Alloy, and hit up a few of the Atlanta historical sites. Then we’d drive up to Marietta to do a little more shopping and possibly catch a Braves game at the Battery.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I would recognize my mother, Deborah Garrett Embry, who passed away when I was seven-years-old. Growing up, she always pushed me to be creative by putting on performances and utilizing my gift and eye for fashion. A second person who deserves credit and recognition is my husband, Eddie Johnson, III, because he encouraged me to go back to school for both Entertainment Business and Creative Writing. And, he pushes me to be innovative in growing the Atlanta Film and TV platform.

Website: https://www.atlantafilmandtv.com/
Instagram: @atlantafilmandtv
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandisa-akilah-johnson-ms-mfa-20246349/
Twitter: @ATLFilmandTV
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlantafilmandtv

Image Credits
Tomeka Smith

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