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

Hi Michelle, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
*deep sigh! Lol! I’m learning it’s about perspective because life is always changing. Granted that is easier said than done. Definitely as an entrepreneur, at times I feel like I want to give up more than I want to move forward, and that’s real ish. Adulting can sometimes be straight up ghetto lol and you add in following your dreams, it’s a tough road. But I’ve learned the tough times are character builders and to also relish in the good moments and what feels good. So I feel like instead of giving up or keep going, taking a step back and evaluating will always help.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Who is Michelle Jo? Well outside of just being a woman who refuses to let life’s obstacles knock her down, I am the head huncho of Michelle Jo & Co. I’m a self love coach and I help women level up after heartbreak and divorce. Getting to this point was not easy and still has it’s uneasy moments. I remember being in my early twenties feeling as if I needed to find myself, that’s ultimately how I began my personal self love journey. I wanted to know who I was instead of allowing everyone else to dictate my identity. I always knew I wanted to create a branch specifically for black women, a safe space to be uplift, celebrated and educated. I’m really proud that in the midst of a pandemic, I was able to relaunch my brand and I’ve helped some amazing women step back into their light. One thing I’ve learned is that as you evolve your business will also evolve and you’ll also get another piece of your purpose. One thing I strive to do is ultimately let women know you aren’t alone, I feel like we have enough think pieces and opinions on who and what we should be, but I feel we need more messages of grace and gentleness. Granted I’m the type of coach that’s going to deliver truth in a compassionate way, but you’ll get the point no doubt. I’m also excited to create a space specifically for black women who are Single, when I tell you I believe God has given me a vision for single black women, it’s going to be dope. I’m actually rolling this out this month. I just want us as women to know at whatever phase or stage we are in, we are amazing and life can be so great.

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?
*rubs hands together This is such a fun question, I am foodie so finding new places in my thing. First, definitely would have brunch at Atlanta Breakfast Club at sunrise because we all know it’s always packed. Also while in the area visit the Georgia Aquarium. Tuesday, let’s hit up Arabia Mountain, when I tell you the scenery at the top is beautiful. For dinner we’d keep it light and hit up JJ’s chicken and fish I mean the fried chicken with extra seasoning, so good. Wednesday, let’s hit the beltline, great photo ops and let’s have lunch at Char, the korean fried chicken is sooo good! & we can pick up some ice cream Sweet Stack #blackowned Thursday, we would definitely hit up the Cascade nature reserve, it’s a hidden gem with a waterfall, then hit hiachi stop for a 10pc hot honey lemon pepper wing combo. Amazing! Friday, we’re gonna skip straight to dinner LOL we would try a new restaurant called The Beetlecat, found it on tiktok and looks yummy. But before dinner go to Sky Barre Atlanta for a suspension based fitness class. Saturday, we are sleeping in LOL but will definitely have reservations at The Hive, the vibes and food is everything. Definitely will hit up Ponce City market, to try out Bar Vegan and the rooftop view. Sunday, whew! Time to rest and go home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Well first I would definitely have to say my mom, granted it might be a little cliche but she is literally always going hard for me. She promotes my business and always encourages me to keep going, she’s on my team and in my corner always. Also, my best friend Tee. Our friendship is truly one of kind and he’s always there when I need him the most. I can depend on him, he encourages me when this journey gets tough and so much more. He’s behind the scenes my slice of peace and the balance to my free spirit ways. I learn a lot from him and I’m forever grateful for our friendship.

Website: michellejo.com

Instagram: instagram.com/iammichellejo

Image Credits
Image Credits: Day Inouye of Day Renee Photography Tatyanna Chamere

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