We had the good fortune of connecting with Lakweshia “lj” Ewing and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lakweshia “LJ”, what do you attribute your success to?
The driving force behind my success—and the success of Unlearn Everything and Live—is rooted in the transformative power of unlearning. True success begins when we courageously let go of outdated methods, limiting beliefs, and the societal norms that no longer serve us. It’s in the unlearning that we make space for what truly matters: purpose, empathy, authenticity and alignment with God’s plan.

Understanding purpose is at the core of everything we do. We believe that every individual is uniquely designed for something extraordinary, created with intention by a loving Creator. When we help others connect with their God-given purpose, we equip them to walk boldly in their calling, creating ripples of positive change in their own lives and communities.

Having empathy and showing kindness to humanity are essential to this journey. Success isn’t a solo pursuit—it’s found in relationships, collaboration, and lifting others as we climb. We embrace the understanding that everyone’s journey is unique, and by leading with compassion, we create a safe space where people can grow, heal, and thrive.

At the center of it all is God. Faith is the foundation of our work and the compass that guides every decision. By centering God, we align with His wisdom, grace, and divine timing, ensuring that everything we build is not only successful but sustainable and meaningful.

This combination of unlearning, understanding purpose, having empathy, centering God, and showing kindness creates a life and brand that stand for transformation, authenticity, and love. That’s the secret to my personal success and our success as a brand—and why it resonates with those we serve.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What Sets You Apart From Others?
What sets me and Unlearn Everything and Live apart is our unwavering commitment to transformation. We’re not just about change for the sake of progress; we focus on purposeful unlearning. We guide individuals and organizations to identify and release habits, systems, and beliefs that no longer align with their goals, replacing them with values and strategies rooted in authenticity, faith, and sustainable success. Our approach is deeply personal and holistic—combining data-driven tools, empathy, and God-centered principles to create impactful, lasting results.

What Are You Most Proud of or Excited About?
I’m most proud of the lives transformed through Unlearn Everything and Live. Seeing people step into their God-given purpose, breaking free from what held them back, and realizing their full potential fuels everything I do. I’m excited about the future—expanding the reach of our work, impacting more leaders, and continuing to create spaces where people can grow spiritually, professionally, and emotionally. I’m also thrilled about being featured as an author in the International 2024 Book Bienal in São Paulo, Brazil. This global platform allows me to share the message that each of us is created on purpose, with purpose.

How Did You Get to Where You Are Today Professionally? Was It Easy?
The journey has been far from easy, but it’s been worth every step. Professionally, I got here through relentless faith, hard work, and a willingness to unlearn everything I thought I knew about success. It required self-reflection, sacrifice, and trusting God even when the path ahead seemed unclear. I faced many challenges, from navigating doubt and setbacks to learning how to center my values in a world that often demands conformity.

How Did You Overcome the Challenges?
I overcame challenges by relying on my faith, the love of my family, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Every obstacle became an opportunity to refine my vision and strengthen my resolve. I surrounded myself with mentors and collaborators who shared my passion for purpose-driven work. And I leaned into my mantra—unlearning. I let go of fear, perfectionism, and the need to do it all alone, embracing God’s timing and plan for my life instead.

What Are the Lessons You’ve Learned Along the Way?

Purpose is everything. When you understand why you’re here, you can face anything.
Unlearning is the key to growth. Often, we’re held back not by what we lack but by what we refuse to release.
Faith and resilience are non-negotiable. You can’t move mountains without believing it’s possible and doing the work to climb.
Kindness and empathy are powerful tools. People remember how you make them feel. Relationships built on compassion and authenticity are the foundation of success.
Centering God aligns everything. When He is at the heart of your work, the path becomes clear, even in the midst of challenges.
What Do You Want the World to Know About You or Your Brand and Story?
I want the world to know that Unlearn Everything and Live is more than a brand—it’s a movement. It’s an invitation to let go of what’s holding you back and step boldly into your purpose. My story is proof that transformation is possible, no matter where you start. It’s a journey of faith, resilience, and the belief that we are all created by design, for a divine purpose.

I’m here to remind the world that success isn’t about achieving more; it’s about aligning with who you’re meant to be. Whether you’re a leader seeking to inspire others, an organization aiming to create unity, or an individual ready for change, Unlearn Everything and Live is here to guide you on that path. Together, we can create a future that reflects the best of who we are.

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?
If my best friend were visiting Chattanooga, Tennessee, I’d create an itinerary that showcases the city’s vibrant mix of culture, nature, and innovation, all while incorporating my love for meaningful experiences and community connections. Here’s what the week would look like:

Start the trip with a warm breakfast or brunch at Bohemian Village or Plant Power cafes, famous for their amazing healthy options.
Stop by RISE Chattanooga to partake of some amazing local creative artistry and community connection. I might swing by a Rhymne N Chatt Open Mic poetry event, Chattanooga Business Elite event, a class at The Chattery. Afterwards I have to take my friend to meet a few of the members of The Sankofa Fund for Civic Engagement, an African American Giving circle that I helped to co-found.

I would then take a walk along the Walnut Street Bridge but only to see the Ed Johnson Memorial as it speaks to one of the most important historic heart-wrenching moments to happened on the bridge. Afterwards we would have dinner at Davis Waynes in the Cambridge Square to partake a welcoming and delicious southern-style delicious dinner. We would visit New Holy Temple Church of God in Christ for a faith filled experience and inspiration,

Chattanooga thrives at the intersection of community, creativity, and innovation. Whether it’s the vibrant arts scene, the breathtaking outdoor experiences, or the rich history, the city is filled with energy and purpose. Some of the most exciting aspects are the people—visionaries, changemakers, and dreamers who bring the city to life.

This itinerary reflects my passion for creating meaningful connections, embracing culture, and centering faith and purpose in all things.

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 celebrate and honor two of the most incredible pillars in my life—my mother, Maryland Massie, and my husband, Julian Ewing.

To my mother, Maryland Massie: Your unwavering faith, wisdom, and resilience have been the blueprint for my journey. You taught me the power of unlearning—how to release what doesn’t serve and embrace the beauty of walking in purpose. Your love and guidance continue to inspire me to lead with empathy, show kindness to humanity, and keep God at the center of everything I do.

To my husband, Julian Ewing: For 28 years, you’ve been my partner, my confidant, and my greatest cheerleader. Your strength, love, and support have been the wind beneath my wings. Together, we’ve navigated life’s joys and challenges, always keeping faith as our anchor. You embody everything I hold dear—purpose, kindness, and the divine connection that keeps me striving for greatness.

Both of you have been my muses, my guiding lights, and the living examples of why Unlearn Everything and Live exists. Thank you for being my foundation, my inspiration, and my greatest gifts from God. I am forever grateful.

Website: https://www.unlearneverythingandlive.com

Instagram: unlearnlive

Linkedin: unlearnlive

Twitter: unlearnlive

Facebook: Lakweshia Ewing

Image Credits
Donzeleigh Powell
Marchiere Savage
Julian Ewing

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta 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.