Meet Tracey Kennedy | Author, Entrepreneur, pint-sized modern day cavewoman, promoter of Self Love.

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

Hi Tracey, what do you want people to remember about you?

This is such a thought provoking question. My legacy. I remember being in my late 20’s at a weekend BBQ. I was in New Jersey at my grandfather’s brothers’ home. There were a bunch of wealthy white folks, some business casual in vibration, some on that Celtic fairy angel type shit. My grand uncle wanted me there in hopes of me shining to these people. Money will always bring some more money, ya dig?

Someone asked, “So, what do you want to do with your life?” I don’t know what jackass asks that kind of question at a BBQ with a more alcohol than a juke joint serving moonshine out the back door! But, there I was, being put on the spot. I said, “Travel the world cooking and eating good food and living a life of philanthropy.” I promise, I said it with the most confident smile too!

Everyone looked at me like I was, clearly, raised by little brown skinned pixie faires with mini afros, all nomadic through the lands.

Now, at 42? I still feel that way! I still want to travel the world cooking and eating AMAZING food. I want to drink the best wines. I need to emerse myself into cultures other than my own and further learn a deeper level of humanity. I need everyone to know while I care for the progression of the human race as a whole, my priority will always be the progression of the Black American.

When you think of me, know that I firmly know Blackness will always be the foundation of humanity, and until we value Blackness, there will never be peace.

When I cross your mind I want you to remember I actively work every single day to promote the genuine joy and peace I have found within my humility.

I need my children to be unshakeable and grounded in the reality that their mother always moved to ensure they were better humans than I can be.

I need everyone to know I always want to find God’s love, and the only way to get there is by genuinely learning how to love all of who you are. Self love is God’s love.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Life is such a whirlwind, you know? One minute you’re the founder of one of the first Black owned organic body care companies in the state of Alabama, to writing a book and rebuilding, yet a new phase in your life!

And, that’s what happened to me! LOL

Since I last spoke with Shoutout ATL, is California Country Organics Body Care still going? Yes. Unfortunately, it is no longer my primary focus. After the reality of a bad business move started tapping dance across my brain, I decided to pull back, take my slogan, “Love Yourself Organically”, seriously, and that’s what I did! I began turning my land into the garden of Eden, talking to the ancestors, getting me right, and actively going back to church, after 20 years of being estranged!

I also took a major career pivot and wrote my first book, Tender Nights With Tracey: Swiping During The Age of The Rona. It is a memoir of the chaos that was my life, going through divorce and online dating during the pandemic! It’s definitely 18 yrs and older, and definitely not for the faint of heart! There are twists and turns and every emotion you can think of. Then, the ending will leave you like, “Who shot JR?”

I don’t know how many times I have asked the question, “Who knew a body care company could genuinely help you love yourself?” But, I keep asking because I continuously learn from unicorn magic in small jars that I created out of the love I had for my family. It was never about the money. It was always about the love and integrity behind the brand and the woman.

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?

My house is the BEST spot in the city! I grow 1000’s flowers and produce in my yard. Everywhere you turn, you will find something edible and or colorful. There’s a man made creek and pond, outdoor shower, with a pool and all natural hot tub to come! I’m a classically trained chef by trade and education with a Bertazonni stove/oven named Valentina Vageena. My home is a space of healing, and comfort.

If I go out, it’s usually in ATL. You can definitely catch me off Buford Ave., hopping around the Asian restaurants or at IKEA because. IKEA.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

This goes out to, Black King!

I’m a better woman because you saw the best in me even in my darkest hours. You offered a hand up, even when I beat you down. You were my emotional rehabilitation center. Thank you for helping me get clean and stay that way!

Website: https://calibamaorganics.com/

Instagram: @Traceykennedy

Twitter: @FuckingTracey

Facebook: California Country Organics Body Care

Other: TikTok: @Traceykennedywithlove

Image Credits
Sanjay Kumar Bennie Mac Waterbear Photography