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

Hi Ariel Driskell, how do you think about risk?
When approached with a new opportunity that is risky, I often remind myself that there are things in life that will always be hard and that I should choose the thing that will bring me the most growth. For example, I knew that leaving my job with health benefits, guaranteed paycheck, and a 401k, to pursue my passion as a writer and indie filmmaker was risky. However, staying at a job that no longer served me or fed me creatively was worth the risk. Since leaving my job in November of 2019, I’ve been able to find the balance that my life was lacking. I’ve spent more time with my family and friends, attended the Sundance Film Festival at the beginning of the year, and have written new scripts that I’m preparing to sell. As the great writer, Paulo Coehlo, once wrote, “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.”

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.
I am a master storyteller, that uses words to heal people (think Yoda meets Issa Rae). The biggest lesson that I have learned is that whether I think I can or that I can’t, I’m right. Negative self talk has been my biggest challenge to overcome, but with the support of family and friends, I know I will always conquer any fear or self doubt that is holding me back.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of the reasons I love living in Atlanta is because there is so much to do! One of my favorite tourist spots is, The World of Coke. And since we’d already be downtown, we might go to Ra Sushi for happy hour, or Paschal’s for soul food. As long as the weather is sunny, we’d also take a bike ride along the belt line and grab a bite to eat at Kroger Market. To close out the week, we’d spend a few hours at Stone Mountain Park.

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 would like to desiccate this shoutout to my amazing family and friends that have supported my big and risky dreams over the years.

Website: www.arieldriskell.com
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