Meet Sandra Mason | Game Shows-a-holic, Football-a-holic, Risk-taker

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

Hi Sandra, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve been thinking about the risks I’ve taken over my 76 years, and I have to say, it’s both powerful and inspiring to reflect on these experiences! I’ve always embraced risk, stepping out of my comfort zone more times than I can count. From having fun pantomiming songs on stage with friends in high school to auditioning for TV commercials for brands like Anheuser-Busch, Quaker Oats, and the Washington State Lottery, my journey has been quite the adventure! Winning big on Wheel of Fortune and Celebrity Family Feud, appearing on The Newlywed Game, and even taking a chance on reality TV (The Golden Bachelor) to find my future mate has kept me excited about new opportunities.

What really stands out to me is how I can stay calm and collected, even when my nerves are wildly dancing inside. That’s what courage is all about, right? Facing those uncertain moments and still moving forward with a smile! I feel so proud of my journey, and it truly brings me joy to see how all these experiences have shaped the person I am today. Sure, the unknown can be a little scary, but I prefer to keep an open mind and embrace whatever comes next. I’ve already shown myself that I’m ready for whatever challenges lie ahead!

When new and often ‘scary’ opportunities come my way, I don’t ask myself, ‘WHY?’. Instead, I ask, ‘WHY NOT?’ I’m really proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I’m grateful for the support of my daughters, my son-in-law, and all my friends who are cheering me on. What more should I, could I, would I ask?

I can’t help but wonder what it is that pulls me toward these risks. Is it the thrill of the unknown, the growth that comes from stepping outside my comfort zone, or something else entirely? Hmmm, let’s find out together—stay tuned!

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.
II have had the privilege of living a comfortable and varied life, enriched by a range of interesting roles and transitions. My journey began during the transformative 1960s at UC Berkeley and continued through my time at “Ma Bell.” I then ventured into real estate for 12 years, followed by a 10-year role with an engineering firm. Each of these chapters has contributed to my growth and understanding, shaping my path in unique ways.

While these experiences may seem similar to others, they have collectively equipped me with valuable, pragmatic wisdom that enhances my retirement years. Reflecting on this journey, I appreciate the significance of each experience, both as individual milestones and as part of a larger narrative. Together, they have shaped who I am today and continue to inspire me as I move forward.

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.
If my bestie visits me here in the ATL, I’d for sure take her to the MLK center, the World of Coca Cola, perhaps a sporting event depending on the season, and finally to SIMPLE FINDS in Chamblee (where I’m one of 130 vendors). It’s the bestest vendors’ mall and a wonderful store to find gifts, home decor, home and office accessories, jewelry and items you simply cannot locate elsewhere. You just gotta go there and wear your comfortable shoes to walk the 25,000 sq. ft. of phenomenal shopping. Open 10a – 6p daily. GO THERE!! Now that’s a great plug, right?
I’d also hope to convince my friend to enjoy Indoor Sky Diving with me. It’s a thrill and a half!
I’m not much of a foodie but my fave restaurant is Houston’s. Their artichokes are must haves. I repeat…must haves.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to my daughters, Evany and Taylor. Their unwavering support, insightful critiques, and challenges have truly made a profound impact on my life. I can’t thank them enough for being here for me.

I also want to send much love to my best friend, Sandi Bethune, who lives in California. Despite the distance, our friendship has thrived over the past 55 years. We share so much—laughs, tears, complaints, gossip, and cherished memories—during our long phone calls. Anyone who hears us would likely find our conversations to be quite entertaining (and scandalous)!

I am incredibly grateful for Kady DeWees, my amazing online tech personality guru. Her guidance has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate all she does! She’s phenomenal. (Please check out my Instagram page: Sandrathejoy.)

My ‘Main Gurls’, Cookie and KG are my Atlanta backbone, go-to Angels.

Steve Alexander, my fitness instructor who calls my classmates and me ‘super athletes’, motivates us with his words and exercises. Have you seen my arms!!?

I must acknowledge Ken Matthes, whose mentorship has been a daily blessing for the past 11 years. His support has always been spot-on, and I’m so grateful to have him in my life.

Instagram: sandrathejoy

Facebook: sandra mason