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

Hi Dett, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
A BLACK MAN IS NOT MY OPP was born out of an urgent need for conflict resolution within the black community in a time when young black men are being heavily influenced to handle issues/conflict with their own reflection with violence. A BLACK MAN IS NOT MY OPP champions black male conflict resolution and aims to shift the narrative away from viewing black males as your opps, and towards comradery, collaboration and unity within the culture.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey has had lots of ups and downs. I’ve worked with several celebs and companies including Nelly, Snoop, Waka Flocka, NASCAR, Diadora, Reebok, G-III Sports, to name a few. The biggest lesson learned along the way is the importance of having my business in order from the jump. I’m a huge risk taker, and though a lot of reward came from those risks, so did a lot of failures and lessons. But I wouldn’t change a thing because those risks walked me into doors I never dreamed of walking through.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spot in the ATL might be the Beltine. It’s dope seeing all the people from different walks of life, vibing, enjoying the atmosphere, selling, networking, etc. The West End is also one of my favorite areas, mainly because of plant-based/vegan spots Tassili’s Raw and the Wadada Mart.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I credit my parents and several mentors for shaping my mindset and pushing me to pursue my vision at the highest level possible.

Website: www.nooppgang.com

Instagram: @nooppgang

Image Credits
Maude Images

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.