Meet Cortlan White | Son, Brother, Uncle, Entrepreneur, & Servant Leader

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

Hi Cortlan, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe risk-taking is essential for growth and success. Like investments, there is often a positive correlation between risk and reward. However, taking risks shouldn’t be reckless; it requires careful planning to minimize unnecessary exposure.

Three strategies to minimize unnecessary exposure include:

1. Conduct a Risk Assessment

– Evaluate potential outcomes, identifying risks and their possible impact.
– Use tools like SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to gain clarity.
– Prioritize which risks are worth taking based on their potential rewards.

2. Build a Contingency Plan

– Develop backup strategies to manage negative outcomes.
– Allocate resources, such as time, money, or personnel, to prepare for unforeseen challenges.
– Maintain an emergency fund or reserve to address setbacks without compromising progress.

3. Seek Knowledge and Expertise

– Learn from those who have successfully navigated similar risks.
– Consult mentors, advisors, or industry experts for informed guidance.
– Stay updated on trends, regulations, and external factors that may influence the outcome.

In my life and career, risk-taking has consistently driven progress. Whether stepping into unfamiliar roles, pursuing ambitious goals, or making pivotal decisions, each risk has stretched me beyond my comfort zone and created significant opportunities for growth.

By carefully evaluating potential outcomes, preparing contingency plans, and seeking wise counsel, I have learned to approach risks with confidence and resilience, ensuring they lead to meaningful rewards.

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?
My journey began in Detroit, where I developed a strong sense of community and a desire to uplift others. I earned a BBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, which laid the foundation for my business career.

After graduation, I spent six years at Target in various roles, including Inventory Management, Property Management, and Procurement. These experiences provided me with a comprehensive understanding of brands, from conception to store shelves. Eager to expand my horizons, I pursued an MBA at Duke University.

Upon earning my MBA, I became a business operations manager at Honeywell, where I honed my leadership skills and learned the intricacies of running a business. I then returned to Target as a sourcing manager, focusing on developing private label brands (Threshold) and design partnerships (Studio McGee and Hearth & Hand with Magnolia). Leveraging my corporate experiences and fueled by my passion for entrepreneurship and community service, I launched my real estate business and my clothing brand, Crown and Cross Apparel. Each step of my journey has been dedicated to bringing people together and fostering growth—both personally and professionally—rooted in my faith and commitment to serving others.

It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like many others, I’ve faced significant challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles has been managing the demands of working full-time while finding time to grow my businesses. Balancing these responsibilities often felt overwhelming, requiring careful time management and commitment.

Transitioning from corporate environments to entrepreneurship also brought its own difficulties, including navigating uncertainty and adapting quickly to changing circumstances. There were moments of self-doubt, especially when launching my clothing brand and real estate business. However, each struggle has been a valuable learning experience, strengthening my resilience and deepening my commitment to my faith.

Through it all, my relationship with Christ has kept me grounded and helped me overcome any challenges.

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.
Places to Eat
1. Old Lady Gang (OLG)
– A Southern soul food restaurant owned by Kandi Burruss of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
– Known for comfort dishes like fried chicken and collard greens.
2. Busy Bee Cafe
– An Atlanta institution since 1947, serving classic soul food.
– Don’t miss the fried chicken and peach cobbler.
3. Slutty Vegan
– A must-visit for plant-based comfort food.
– Famous for its vegan burgers with bold flavors and names.
4. Mary Mac’s Tea Room
– Known as “Atlanta’s Dining Room,” this spot serves traditional Southern favorites.
– Great for fried catfish and sweet tea.
5. Sweet Auburn Seafood
– Combines seafood with Southern charm.
– Great vibes and a menu that includes lobster mac and cheese.

Places to Drink
1. The Sound Table
– A stylish lounge with great music and craft cocktails.
– Located in the historic Edgewood Avenue district.
2. Parlor Cocktail Den
– An upscale, speakeasy-style bar perfect for sipping well-crafted drinks.
3. The James Room
– A trendy spot on the BeltLine serving coffee, cocktails, and a chill atmosphere.
4. Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar
– A fun combo of great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere with a DJ.

Places to Hang Out
1. Piedmont Park
– Great for picnics, people-watching, or catching events like the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
2. Atlanta BeltLine
– Walk, bike, or just explore the art installations, restaurants, and bars along this urban trail.
3. Trap Music Museum
– Celebrate Atlanta’s contributions to trap music in this interactive, Black-owned museum.
4. The Gathering Spot
– A private membership club with networking events and a space for Black professionals.
5. Auburn Avenue District
– Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, then explore bars, eateries, and live music venues nearby.
6. The High Museum of Art
– Check out exhibitions featuring Black artists or community-focused programming.
7. City Winery
– A great mix of live music, wine, and small bites.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a special shoutout to Danie B. Mathis and her amazing non-profit organization, Caterpillar’s Promise! This impactful organization motivates others, especially youth, to use their talents in STEM and the Arts for the greater good through meaningful service, engaging seminars, and inspiring showcases.

Caterpillar’s Promise serves Middle Georgia and the Greater Atlanta area, with one collegiate chapter, CP@GT. Their incredible programs and events include:

1. E-STEAM Programming (bridging Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
2. WGO Concerts and Productions
3. The annual E-Day event

Her dedication to uplifting and inspiring the next generation is nothing short of phenomenal.

Website: https://crownandcrossapparel.myshopify.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crownandcrossapparel

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cortlanwhite/

Other: https://www.instagram.com/courtingwithcortlan
https://www.instagram.com/closewithcortlan

Image Credits
AJ Davis
Amoriss Arlyce
Daphne Ikola
Greg Ciceron