Meet Christopher Smith | Mogul

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

Hi Christopher, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, the youngest of five brothers, and raised in a single-parent home. My background is shaped by resilience, determination, and a refusal to let my circumstances define who I am or where I can go in life. Growing up in poverty without the resources or connections that others may have had, I was always taught to be self-sufficient. I started working at 12, juggling multiple jobs not because I had to, but because I felt the need to mature quickly due to my environment. At the time, I didn’t fully understand why, but looking back, I see that it was all about building discipline and independence.

Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Despite my tough upbringing, most people wouldn’t guess my background, and I’m grateful to say that I don’t look like where I came from. It’s made me a realist—someone who understands life deeply and genuinely.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is unique because it is created with deep intentionality. I believe that when we were placed on this earth, God made each of us distinct and different, right down to the smallest detail. No two people are the same, and that individuality is something I carry into my art. The gifts I’ve been blessed with have given me a heart full of compassion for humankind, and in today’s world, I feel that love is exactly what we need.

My work is a reflection of this love—my way of contributing to the healing and connection that we so desperately need right now. I pour my soul into every piece. What excites me most is the ability to create art that resonates with others on a deeper level, not just as something beautiful to look at, but as a source of healing, hope, and understanding.

Getting to where I am today professionally has not been easy. There have been numerous challenges along the way, but each one has taught me invaluable lessons. I’ve learned that persistence, faith, and the willingness to embrace my uniqueness are what drive me forward. I’ve also learned the importance of staying true to my vision and trusting that my art has a purpose beyond just being seen—it’s meant to be felt.

I WANT YOU TO KNOW YOU HAVE TO LOVE YOU MORE THAN ANYONE ELSE.

What I want the world to know about me is that my art is not just about technique or aesthetics; it’s about sharing love and creating a space for others to feel seen, heard, and valued. My brand is about authenticity and heart—using the gifts I’ve been given to contribute to the greater good. I want people to walk away from my work feeling a little more hopeful, a little more connected, and a little more in tune with the love that unites us all.

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.
### **Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta!**
– **Morning:** Start with breakfast at *The Flying Biscuit Café* in the Midtown area, a beloved spot known for its Southern-style breakfasts and the famous “flying biscuit.”
– **Midday:** Take a relaxing walk through **Piedmont Park**—right in the heart of the city. It’s an urban oasis with beautiful views of the Atlanta skyline, perfect for a light stroll or picnic.
– **Lunch:** Head to **Ponce City Market**, a restored historic building that’s now a food hall, shopping center, and entertainment spot. Have lunch at *Farm Burger*, known for its locally-sourced burgers and farm-to-table vibes.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the **Atlanta BeltLine**, a former railway corridor transformed into walking and biking trails, with art installations, parks, and vibrant murals along the way. Stop by the Krog Street Tunnel to see the street art.
– **Evening:** Head to **Skyline Park** on top of *Ponce City Market* for rooftop games, mini-golf, and panoramic views of the city. Then, for dinner, visit *Hosea & 45th*, offering a modern twist on Southern comfort food.

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### **Day 2: Arts, History & Culture**
– **Morning:** Visit the **Atlanta Botanical Garden** for a peaceful and beautiful start to the day. The garden offers seasonal displays and unique exhibits like the orchid collection and tropical conservatory.
– **Lunch:** Have lunch at *The Optimist*, one of Atlanta’s top seafood restaurants, located in West Midtown. It’s known for its raw bar and fresh seafood dishes.
– **Afternoon:** Spend the afternoon at the **High Museum of Art**, one of the premier art museums in the Southeastern U.S. It’s home to a wide range of art, including European, American, and African art, as well as contemporary exhibitions.
– **Evening:** Enjoy dinner in **Virginia-Highland** at *The Iberian Pig*, known for its Spanish-inspired tapas. Afterward, explore the local nightlife—perhaps a craft cocktail at *Pinewood Tippling Room*.

—

### **Day 3: Southern History & Comfort**
– **Morning:** Start with breakfast at *Rising Son*, a great spot for waffles, grits, and other Southern breakfast favorites in the charming West End neighborhood.
– **Midday:** Visit the **Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site**, which includes Dr. King’s birth home, the church where he preached, and the **Ebenezer Baptist Church**. It’s a powerful experience that reflects on Atlanta’s deep civil rights history.
– **Lunch:** Grab lunch at **Busy Bee Cafe**, a historic soul food spot serving up fried chicken, collard greens, and other Southern staples.
– **Afternoon:** After lunch, head to **The Atlanta History Center**, a large museum complex in Buckhead that covers everything from Civil War history to Southern culture. You can also visit the **Swan House** and the surrounding gardens for a beautiful experience.
– **Evening:** Dinner at *King + Duke* in Buckhead—a refined yet relaxed dining experience known for its wood-fired meats and cozy atmosphere. Finish the night with a drink at *The Roof at Ponce City Market*, which offers a stunning view of the city skyline.

—

### **Day 4: Fun, Food & Entertainment**
– **Morning:** Begin the day with breakfast at *Brockett* in Decatur—famous for their delicious pastries and hearty dishes.
– **Midday:** Spend the morning at **Zoo Atlanta**, home to a variety of animals, including giant pandas and gorillas. It’s one of the most popular attractions in the city.
– **Lunch:** After the zoo, stop by *Superica*, a vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant in the Krog Street Market. Their fajitas and margaritas are a hit!
– **Afternoon:** Explore **Ponce City Market** for shopping and entertainment. You can rent a bike or walk along the BeltLine to check out even more art murals and local spots. If you’re in the mood for more fun, head to **Atlanta’s Topgolf** or the **Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park** (depending on the season).
– **Evening:** Head to *STK Atlanta* for dinner—a sleek and stylish steakhouse in Midtown. Then, spend the evening enjoying drinks at *The Sound Table* in Inman Park, a hip spot for craft cocktails.

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### **Day 5: Hidden Gems & Local Culture**
– **Morning:** Start your day with breakfast at *Jungle Café* in Midtown—known for its fresh smoothies and creative brunch options.
– **Midday:** Explore **Little Five Points**, a quirky, eclectic neighborhood full of independent shops, vintage stores, record shops, and street art. This area has a unique, alternative vibe.
– **Lunch:** Stop for lunch at *The Vortex* in Little Five Points, a legendary Atlanta burger joint famous for its giant burgers and fun atmosphere.
– **Afternoon:** Head over to **Grant Park** to relax or visit the **Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail** for a more scenic walk. Stop by the **Atlanta Contemporary Art Center**, a hidden gem offering rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.
– **Evening:** For dinner, enjoy Southern classics at *Southern Gentleman* in Buckhead, offering upscale Southern fare. Afterward, explore the nightlife in **Midtown** or grab a craft beer at *Orpheus Brewing*.

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### **Day 6: Day Trip Adventure**
– **Option 1: Explore the North Georgia Mountains:** Take a scenic drive to the North Georgia mountains and hike the **Appalachian Trail**, visit **Amicalola Falls**, or spend time in the charming town of Dahlonega, known for its historic gold mines and local wineries.
– **Option 2: Visit Savannah (Optional):** If you’re feeling adventurous, head down to **Savannah** (a 4-hour drive). The city offers a beautiful, historic experience with cobblestone streets, charming squares, and riverside views.
– **Lunch:** In Dahlonega or Savannah, enjoy local food—try Southern classics like shrimp and grits, or visit a quaint café for a light meal.
– **Evening:** On your way back from your day trip, stop at a local BBQ joint or return to Atlanta for a low-key dinner at *The Varsity*, a local institution serving chili dogs and fries.

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### **Day 7: Relax & Unwind**
– **Morning:** Have a relaxed breakfast at *Café Sundown*, an underrated gem offering delicious Southern dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients.
– **Midday:** Spend your last day exploring **Lenox Square** or **Phipps Plaza**, two upscale shopping centers in Buckhead, perfect for some final shopping or just browsing.
– **Lunch:** Have a casual lunch at *The Atlanta Breakfast Club*, known for its comforting breakfast foods like chicken and waffles.
– **Afternoon:** Spend the afternoon at **Lake Lanier** or **Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area** for a peaceful outdoor experience—perfect for a leisurely hike or renting a kayak.
– **Evening:** For a final dinner, enjoy a scenic meal at **9 Mile Station**, an outdoor beer garden in Midtown, where you can grab some food, enjoy craft brews, and take in the views.

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?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my family—my mother, brothers, nieces, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, and my father—and to my friends. This is for those who genuinely care for me and love me for who I am, not for what I can do for them. It’s for those who see me as more than just what I can give, who remind me that I’m still human, and who love me unconditionally. This is for all of you. Thank you for being my support and my strength.

Website: https://www.2benjiient.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2benjii/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-smith-ab9918224/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/2benjii?s=21

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2Benjii/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UComaFQYer755iJ4Gx0cylBg

Image Credits
Tym.WitA.Y, 2Benjii ENT