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

Hi Kacie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I initially started Could Be Pretty Cool as a side venture to throw networking events for the art community in Atlanta. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I was laid off from my full-time job and was gifted the opportunity to focus on a new direction for my business and pursue more “pandemic friendly” activities. I turned to podcasting as a way to be able to continue to collaborate with creatives and incorporate my audio background. The company was able to quickly pitch and sell 2 major projects and we are continuing to develop new work which I am super excited about. 

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.
As a podcaster I am most interested in rooting conversations in a discussion about creative practice and then branching out into topics that are a bit harder to tackle that deal with important social issues. Whether the conversation is about race, politics or religion, I believe that approaching those subjects from an artistic perspective makes it easier to find common connections rather than divisive arguments. I have recently completed a 3-part podcast called “White-Angle” which explores the role of race and agency in our society through the lens of documentary filmmakers. I’ve learned that even though these types of conversations are still sometimes difficult, sharing space with fellow creatives and learning in an open environment is so necessary and is a special service that artists can provide to the community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, in pre-COVID times, I was a big fan of networking events or parties that took place at some of Atlanta’s cultural centers like the High Museum or Center for Civil and Human Rights. I’m a big fan of learning even during leisure time so an art lecture or tour of a gallery over cocktails is always something I’m down for. I also have a few restaurant obsessions including Poor Calvins and Herban Fix. Iwi Fresh Day Spa is another super chill spot that helps me to relax and stay centered. Lastly I’m always down to check out a play or performance at one of the many Atlanta theatre companies.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much of my success to my parents who have supported me from the early days of being a confused music major in college to the current days of being a confused entrepreneur (haha). From the dozens of career changes and failed attempts at making projects happen, my parents have not once tried to convince me to stop pursuing my dreams and have always provided encouragement throughout my many endeavors. I’m happy that they are getting to see that things are (finally) starting to make sense.

Website: www.couldbeprettycool.com
Instagram: @kcshar1
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaciewillis/
Other: www.whiteanglepod.com

Image Credits
Kelley Raye, Justin Chan

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.