We had the good fortune of connecting with Renea Jones-Hudson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Renea, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am originally from Kingston, Jamaica.
I’m thankful for my upbringing. It’s like having a unique lens to see the world. I learned a lot (especially as I have gotten older) about appreciating the little things, staying grounded, understanding what it means to do right, and being kind. My appreciation and understanding of life are better (the good, the bad, the ugly of it) because of my upbringing. It’s my compass in life, helping me navigate through using all those lessons I’ve picked up along the way.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an Empowerment Coach dedicated to supporting transitioning military and veteran women, my journey is deeply personal. Having served as an enlisted member and an officer, I’ve walked in the same boots, faced similar trials, and navigated the complex transition back to civilian life just like the incredible women I aim to empower.
My mission? To guide them through their post-military life, helping them become the Next Best Version of themselves by tapping into the wealth of skills and discipline they’ve mastered in the military.
My path to discovering my purpose wasn’t straightforward. I had to dive deep into who I was outside of uniform, embracing the changes and growth since I first enlisted at 18. This journey of redefinition, rediscovery, and reaffirmation has been ongoing, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.
Was it easy?
In moments, yes, and sometimes a resounding no. Yet, with every step, I’ve come to see that I’ve always been exactly where I needed to be, learning from each experience. The resilience I’ve built and the transformations I’ve undergone have all been part of a larger plan, guided by the goodness of God and supported by mentors and friends who’ve stood by me.
Admittedly, the journey got tougher when I resisted – questioning my path, values, and purpose led to frustration and self-doubt. However, these challenges taught me the most about myself and the power of showing up and following through.
One crucial insight I’ve gained, especially as a veteran, is recognizing when to seek help. It’s in our nature to be self-reliant, to ‘tough it out’ and solve problems on our own. Yet, this can sometimes lead us to isolate when we feel disconnected and lost, sometimes making the struggles more challenging.
We know that reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards healing and growth. However, when faced with any situation, whatever it is, asking for support can still be a difficult step to take and I get it.
My message to the world, and the essence of my brand, is to look beyond the surface. The picture doesn’t always tell the whole story. My brand embodies my past, my present, and the future, and its o that I’m continually shaping. It’s an ongoing, resilient, and empowering narrative, reminding us that with every day God gives us, we can write the next chapter of our lives, striving to become the best versions of ourselves.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I had to do some research on this one because I am fairly new to the city, about three years now, and still have yet to explore it fully. So I got a little help with this. Here’s the itinerary….
If my best friend was coming to Atlanta for a week, I’d plan an itinerary that includes iconic sights, hidden gems, and, of course, incredible food and drinks. Atlanta is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and lush green spaces, so there’s a lot to cover!
Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta
Morning: I would take them for breakfast to Omni Coffee and Eggs, celebrated for its feature-rich menu that showcases its house brand, Omni Coffee Brands, with specialty imported beans from around the world and one of my favorite spots OR The Flying Biscuit Café for breakfast, known for its creamy, dreamy grits and flaky biscuits, but this restaurant stays busy, atleast every time I have been there, there’s always been a wait.
Afternoon: Visit the Georgia Aquarium and then stroll through Centennial Olympic Park.
Evening: Dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room for authentic Southern comfort food. Then, head to the Sky Lounge for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Day 2: History and Culture
Morning: Start with breakfast at Highland Bakery, then head to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site to see Dr. King’s childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Afternoon: Lunch at Krog Street Market. Explore Beltline to see art installations and greenery. This a nice, fun place to visit, I went there with my family.
Evening: Dinner at Ponce City Market. The rooftop has mini-golf, carnival games, and an amazing city view. This is also fun and great for families as well.
Day 3: Arts and Eats
Morning: Brunch at Canoe, nestled along the Chattahoochee River.
Afternoon: Visit the High Museum of Art followed by a walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Vortex (Little Five Points), famous for its burgers and unique atmosphere. Catch a live show at the Variety Playhouse.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventure to one of my favorite places to hike (Stone Mountain)
Morning: Grab breakfast from Panbury’s Double Crust Pies and head to Stone Mountain for a morning hike.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch at Stone Mountain Park. Explore the park’s attractions or relax by the lake.
Evening: Casual dinner at Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, then explore the nightlife in the East Atlanta Village.
Day 5: A Day in Decatur
Morning: Breakfast at Café Alsace for a French-inspired start.
Afternoon: Browse the shops in downtown Decatur, visit the DeKalb Farmers Market, and enjoy the local art scene.
Evening: Dinner at Kimball House for the best oysters and cocktails. Enjoy live music at Eddie’s Attic.
Day 6: Atlanta’s Hidden Gems
Morning: Breakfast at Home Grown, known for its comfort food.
In the afternoon, visit the Fernbank Museum of Natural History or the Atlanta Movie Tours to see film locations around the city.
Evening: Dinner at Two Urban Licks and then enjoy a comedy show at Laughing Skull Lounge.
Day 7: Leisure and Farewell
Morning: Brunch at Ria’s Bluebird, known for its pancakes.
Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at Atlantic Station or a leisurely walk through Piedmont Park.
Evening: Farewell dinner at The Optimist for a seafood feast, then a nightcap at Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium for a quirky end to the trip.
This adventure blends the city’s rich history, culture, and amazing culinary scene with its deep-rooted history and vibrant culture, making it a memorable experience.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
You know, when I look back at my story, I’ve got to give the biggest shoutout to God first and foremost, and then to all those amazing people He’s put in my path. My husband, my cousin, my aunt, my coaches, and those true friends who’ve been there for me every step of the way.
One person I would truly like to give a shoutout to is my 10-year-old daughter, who just blows me away sometimes. Being on this journey with her has been something else; many times, it’s just the two of us and our dog which is why I can’t tell you enough how grateful I am for her.
Her easygoing nature has been such a blessing. Whether she’s tagging along to events or deciding to sit one out, I’ve never had trouble finding someone to step in to support me with her, thanks to her great attitude.
Speaking of game changers, there are a few books that had a tremendous impact on me: the Game of Life by Florence Scovel Schinn and The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks.
Website: https://www.reneajoneshudson.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneajoneshudson
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneajoneshudson
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reneajoneshudson
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@reneajoneshudson1
Image Credits
Photographer: Katya Vilchyk Atlanta Brand Photographer