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

Hi Rod, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk taking is a necessary “skill” to succeed. It involves uncertainty….something of value to someone is at stake. If the appropriate steps aren’t taken the risk increases and those steps is what is valuable. Ones business is to offer those steps…that meal to satisfy their hunger…the tennis lesson to improve their serve ….the online course offered at night. This is a motivation term because to become a risk solver I always felt the need to become as prepared as possible…Updated on the latest information pertaining to my field…offer a better product …

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always gained satisfaction in helping others achieve….not unlike many others….yet I add what I believe is also critical; a cooperative relationship building that help me give great service. I believe it Is important to instill…”Sincerity of purpose” and a good work ethic which in today’s fast paced “Microwave me” mentality… is overlooked.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Dining would include…”The Varsity”….Pitty Pats Porch…The Mansion…age old Atlanta greasy to finest southern dining. Entertainment would have to include the Fox Theatre …one of the oldest venues in the city to our world class Mercedes Benz stadium We most certainly would visit my favorite fishing spot…Sorry…..it’s a secret The rest of the time we would spend visiting family and friends.

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?
….Without a doubt my mother. I observed her from the “last one in” position of four kids raise us while she worked as a domestic. She went to night school in accounting but could only get a job as a cashier back in the 60s. She worked her way through the ranks to become Head of the Accounting Department at a large department store which is a major big box today. She taught me my signature statement. “It’s just hard…that doesn’t mean you can’t do it.

Website: OnlyTheBallTennis.com Other: USPTA.ORG for professional accreditation NETGeneration.com…USTA certification

Image Credits
Parental permission granted to use all images.