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

Hi Ernest, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My wife bought me my first Jeep Wrangler as a victory gift. She said the jeep reminded her of the journey we went through to get here, the thought of being broken down and put back together. The next thing was to start a Jeep Club that represented our culture and to pass and gain information for our well-being. That’s where our Lyft Ryderz motto comes in….To Empower, UpLyft and Encourage one another.

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.
Well we are a non-profit organization. A melanin jeep club out of South GA (Valdosta). The club was founded by my wife (Shonda) and I in May 2023. I am a two time cancer survivor. The first battle was stage 4 colon cancer and the second fight was stage 1 kidney cancer. After the first victory (all praise and glory to God), my wife surprised me with a new vehicle. She said this Jeep reminds her of me and what I went through with all my cancer treatments and surgeries. Being taken apart and put back together strong and resilient.

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?
Definitely three restaurants is a must to visit. If you’re looking for an amazing steak, we’re surely stoping by Jack’s Chophouse. Next for some good old southern BBQ our next stop is Big Nick’s BBQ. Our final stop for great gourmet food good music drinks and a vibe like no other is Fins and Feathers. For some outdoor living and wildlife boating down the Willacoochee River and fishing at Banks Lake over 4050 acres.

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?
Shonda Miller
My Wife My Wonder Woman…simply an very amazing, intelligent and beautiful woman.

Instagram: Lyftryderz

Facebook: Lyft Ryderz Family & Friends Fan Club

Image Credits
Photography by Epic Colours

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