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

Hi Rocky, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Starting your own business is an exhilarating adventure that ignites a journey of profound learning and character building. It’s about embracing resilience and navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship with curiosity and determination. The path is laden with challenges and lessons in the dos and don’ts, especially when you’re charting unknown territories. Yet, the beauty lies in the continuous process of learning and evolving. Observing the successes of seasoned entrepreneurs, coupled with voracious reading and self-education, fuels your journey. It’s an extraordinary, albeit daunting, expedition that molds you into a more insightful and adept individual. In essence, embarking on your own business venture is not just about achieving success; it’s about the growth, the grit, and the grace you gain along the way.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the owner of RTR Consulting LLC we are are commercial Roofing company serving Atlanta GA and surrounding states. Our primary focus, having worked on government projects and private sector buildings such as MCLB/ Albany (Marine Logistic Base Albany GA) Gladys Knight chicken and waffles, various buildings throughout Atlanta, Marriott Hotels, MCO/ Orland Airport, Tampa/ Airport, Paris Island Marines base, Hunter Army Air field, MARTA (just to name a few) doing such projects allows us to employ many with decent backgrounds and pay them a great wage.

Answers to the 10 questions:

1) Starting your own business is an exhilarating adventure that ignites a journey of profound learning and character building. It’s about embracing resilience and navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship with curiosity and determination. The path is laden with challenges and lessons in the dos and don’ts, especially when you’re charting unknown territories. Yet, the beauty lies in the continuous process of learning and evolving. Observing the successes of seasoned entrepreneurs, coupled with voracious reading and self-education, fuels your journey. It’s an extraordinary, albeit daunting, expedition that molds you into a more insightful and adept individual. In essence, embarking on your own business venture is not just about achieving success; it’s about the growth, the grit, and the grace you gain along the way.

2) In the vast world of industries, mine might surprise you. It’s often seen as just manual labor, something traditional and straightforward, but it’s actually a hidden giant. Picture this: an industry where hard work turns ordinary folks into millionaires. It’s a place of transformation, where people start from picking up scraps at construction sites and climb their way to the top through sheer determination and constant learning.This journey isn’t just about financial success; it’s about building inner strength and character. It showcases how underestimating someone’s start doesn’t define where they’ll end up. In our industry, we’ve seen people rise from what many considered the lowest job—roofing—to becoming key players. Roofing, often misunderstood, is an art and a science. It demands knowledge, training, and a keen attention to safety. Roofers are not just laborers; they are skilled professionals who play a crucial role in protecting homes and buildings.A roof is more than just a part of a building. It’s the shield that keeps everything safe underneath—without it, everything falls apart. It’s the most crucial investment on any property. This industry teaches that roofing isn’t just a job; it’s a lifeline. It changes lives, offering paths to success that many never imagined possible.So, for anyone looking for more than just a job, for those who want to build a future, our industry stands ready to welcome you. It’s proof that with hard work and belief in oneself, transformation is not just possible; it’s inevitable. Here, we don’t just build roofs—we build dreams and fortify the spirit of those willing to reach for more.

3) Imagine life as a grand adventure, a canvas where the boldest colors come from the risks we dare to take. They say to win big, you have to risk big, right? My journey has been a whirlwind of highs and lows, moments of doubt intertwined with flashes of clarity. There was a turning point when I realized that chasing others’ dreams, like pursuing a rap career, wasn’t for me. I decided then to focus on what I knew best: roofing. It felt like gambling, but the stakes were personal. I decided to bet on the most reliable horse in the race—myself.This wasn’t about blind gambles but about recognizing my worth and potential. Betting on others led me to dead ends, but once I shifted that faith inwards, the game changed. My life became a story of determination. Every dollar I earned was reinvested into better equipment, even if it meant skipping out on bills or insurance temporarily. It was a calculated risk, betting on the tools that would elevate my craft.Life is inherently risky, but it’s about making smart choices on where to place your bets. Betting on myself, adopting the name Rocky the Roofer as a symbol of resilience and victory, was my pivotal moment. It’s a message I want to share with everyone: the importance of calculated risk-taking. It’s not about recklessness but about investing in your abilities and passions with full conviction.So, to anyone standing at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take, remember that the most significant risk is not taking one at all. Believe in your potential, make those bold moves, and let your life be a testament to the power of trusting in yourself. Life is a gamble where the best bet is always on you.

4) At the heart of my journey, one pivotal decision stands as the cornerstone of my success: reclaiming my autonomy, refusing to let others dictate my path or diminish my spirit. There came a moment when I chose to silence the external noise—the critics, the doubters, the naysayers—and listen to my inner voice with unwavering conviction. It was about more than just ignoring negativity; it was a profound commitment to myself and my loved ones to live authentically, guided by what felt genuinely right for us.This decision was not just a moment of defiance but a powerful assertion of control over my destiny. I vowed to steer my own course, ready to confront any obstacle that life might throw my way. If the wheels of my ambition ever fell off, I’d learn to repair them. Should the engine of my dreams falter, I’d figure out how to rebuild it. And if my vision ever became clouded by the debris of doubt and discouragement, I’d find a way to clear it, ensuring my focus remained sharp and unwavering.The journey to self-reliance taught me a valuable lesson: to seek wisdom from those who have truly walked the path of challenge and triumph. Their experiences, rather than the empty words of bystanders, became my guideposts. By choosing to drive my own bus, metaphorically speaking, I embraced the responsibility for my happiness and success, recognizing that every setback was an opportunity for growth and every victory a milestone on the path I had courageously chosen for myself.This commitment to personal sovereignty and the relentless pursuit of my goals, fueled by the belief in my capabilities, has been transformative. It serves as a reminder that our greatest achievements lie not in the approval we receive from others, but in the strength we discover within ourselves when we choose to live on our own terms.

5) At the heart of everything I’ve built, the real deal is keeping it 100% real—integrity. It’s about standing solid, alone if I have to, keeping my head high, and always speaking my truth. It means being straight-up, no matter what, sticking to my word like it’s law. If I say I’m going to do something, consider it done, even if it means I’m taking an L for it. Sure, we can talk things out and make adjustments, but at the end of the day, my word is everything.My success? It’s built on being tough as nails and giving top-notch service, never backing down from a challenge, even when folks doubt me. It’s about proving them wrong by holding my ground with respect and dignity, showing them I can handle the heat and come out cooler on the other side.This journey’s been about more than just getting to the top. It’s been about how I got here—keeping it honorable every step of the way. That’s what sets me apart. It’s not just about making it but making it the right way. So, to everyone out there grinding, remember: your integrity is your strongest asset. Stay true, and you’ll not only build success—you’ll earn respect.

6) The toughest choice I’ve ever faced? Cutting ties with friends and family in my business. See, starting with those closest to you feels natural. They’re supposed to have your back, right? But over time, I realized some were hiding their true colors, boasting about being top-notch while secretly cutting corners and letting me down. It hit me hard—I was leaning on folks who weren’t as solid as I believed.That moment of truth forced me to look in the mirror and see that the only person I could truly count on was myself. It wasn’t just about blood or history; it was about commitment and integrity. So, I made a tough call: I let go of friends, family, and even some folks from my nonprofit who were dragging us down. They were tarnishing what I built, spreading negativity like a virus.I took back control, grabbed my tools, and climbed up on that roof solo. Day after day, it was just me, my tools, and the task at hand. Finishing that job on my own wasn’t just about proving a point; it was a lesson in self-reliance and setting standards. It was, without a doubt, the best decision I’ve ever made. It taught me the value of standing on my own two feet and the importance of surrounding myself with people who truly add value, not just take up space.

7) Time truly has a way of reshaping our worlds. There was a time when my pockets were light, and the dream was just taking shape. Fast forward, and the scene’s changed—I’ve got a team, a solid foundation that allows me the freedom to breathe a little easier. Now, I find myself embracing the joys of being a grandfather, finding a richer balance between family time and moments of personal peace. Yet, my heart remains tied to the hustle, not buried in the day-to-day grind but soaring above, steering the vision forward.With a book on the horizon, courtesy of Brown Publishing, and ventures that stretch beyond the immediate grasp of my business—like lighting sparks in others through mentorship and advice—I’ve discovered a new kind of fulfillment. It’s as if my life has found its rhythm, a harmony between work and play, effort and ease. The struggles that once felt like endless storms have given way to smoother seas. My ship is now carried by the wind, and I’m reminded that the hardest rows are behind me.This journey, from relentless toil to serene balance, isn’t just my story; it’s a beacon for others navigating their own tumultuous waters. It’s proof that with perseverance, there comes a time when you don’t have to paddle quite so hard. So, to anyone out there still in the thick of their fight, remember: the balance comes. It may take time, and the seas may not always be calm, but eventually, you’ll find your wind, and you’ll sail too.

8) Inspired by Morgan Freeman: “In the quiet aftermath of struggle, our true job begins—to lift others with the strength we’ve gained. Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less, and making room to empower others.

“Inspired by Denzel Washington: “The battle may be over, but our work has just begun. To be humble is to serve, to love is to empower. We are architects of the future, not just for ourselves but for those who will walk the paths we pave.

“Inspired by Jesus: “Love and humility are the cornerstones of a life well-lived. With every struggle overcome, our mission becomes clearer: to empower, to uplift, and to light the way for others, just as a lamp does not hide under a basket but gives light to all in the house. THIS IS WHAT I STAND FOR

9) Check it out—how many folks do you really know willing to climb up on a roof, reaching towards the sky to put in work? In a world where everyone’s chasing the spotlight—wanna be the next big rapper, actor, or the next Dr. Dre—there’s this whole goldmine of work getting slept on. We’re talking about those jobs that some look down on, calling it “grunt work.” But let me flip that script for you. That so-called grunt work? It’s the backbone of industries worth billions.Take a moment and think about it. Elon Musk comes up with these game-changing solar roofs, right? But who’s up there actually making it happen? There’s an electrician, someone’s gotta wire that magic to light up your home. And don’t forget the roofer laying down those solar panels. We’re orbiting in a universe where these skills—these hands-on jobs—are powering multi-billion dollar dreams.Yet, here we are, staring down a crisis. Our streets are filled with young blood too hesitant to dive in, worried about getting their hands dirty. But within that very dirt, within that sweat and effort, lies a path to wealth, to becoming a millionaire not in some distant dream, but in the here and now.This isn’t just about work. It’s about legacy, about the grind and grit that shapes kings and queens out of the everyday. For the few who step up, who aren’t afraid to scale that ladder, skies the limit. They know the worth of this path, see the billions laid out in front of them not just for the taking, but for the making.So, to my brothers and sisters feeling lost in the shuffle, aiming for stars but missing the ladder right in front of them: this is your wake-up call. Our industries, our futures, they’re crying out for you. Don’t be fooled by the glitter and miss the gold in your own backyard. The road less traveled? It’s paved with the kind of victories that’ll not just change your life, but light up the whole damn sky. Keep pushing, keep climbing—because the view from the top? It’s worth every bit of the climb.

Trust me, I was one of them! I worked on a R Kellybtour and was supposed to make $70,000 and didnt make 0.70 cents!

10) Thinking about what I want my legacy to be hits me deep, real deep. I’ve spent my life trying to fix things—trying to be that guy who makes everything better. From a broken marriage to friendships slipping away, I was always there with the toolbox. Coming from humble beginnings, the son of a preacher woman, I’ve been told since day one that my mission was to touch lives, to spread a message of hope and change. And truth be told, I’ve been battling with that, trying to find my place in it all. My life’s been about being the ‘yes’ in a sea of ‘no’s, standing firm in what I believe, never letting down the people who count on me—not my family, not my friends, nobody. If there’s one thing I want to be remembered for, it’s never giving up on anyone. Believing, against all odds, that people can change, that they can rise above.I’ve always been that person ready to lift others up, ready with a word of encouragement, ready to hand out the tools for success to anyone willing to put in the work. Life’s tough, no doubt about it. But imagine, just imagine if we all started stepping up, being true to our word, and shining a light in the dark places. Imagine if we kept our loved ones close, not in the shadows but in the warmth of our care and concern.This world, it could be something else, something better. It’s about more than just making it through the day; it’s about making the day count for something more, for someone else. So, if there’s anything to take from my time here, let it be this: never give up. On yourself, on others, on the possibility of change. Be that beacon of hope, that source of unwavering support. That’s the legacy I aim to leave behind. And maybe, just maybe, it’ll inspire someone else to do the same, to keep pushing, to keep believing, and to make this world a little brighter for us all.

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.
When guests come to town, showing them the vibrant heart and soul of Atlanta through these five memorable experiences will surely leave them with unforgettable memories:

Georgia Aquarium: Dive into an aquatic wonderland at one of the world’s largest aquariums.

Marvel at the majestic whale sharks and playful dolphins, making for a mesmerizing start to your Atlanta adventure.The World of Coca-Cola: Explore the fizzy world of Coca-Cola, where you can learn about the storied history of America’s most beloved beverage brand, taste different Coke products from around the globe, and even see the vault where the secret formula is guarded.

Atlanta Botanical Garden: Wander through the lush landscapes of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. It’s a green sanctuary in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful plant collections and spectacular canopy walks.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: Pay homage to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visit his childhood home, the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and The King Center, where his inspiring journey and the strides he made for civil rights are beautifully documented.

Ponce City Market: Cap off your tour with a visit to Ponce City Market. This vibrant space offers the best of Atlanta’s food scene, unique shopping, and a rooftop with amusement park games and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
These spots not only showcase Atlanta’s rich history and culture but also its lively spirit and charm, making for an experience your guests will treasure.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to Thank YOU! the people who are out there trying to find your way, trying to figure it out! looking for your thing, your success story! please never stop fighting and never give up on your dreams

Website: www.rockytheroofer.com & www.RentARoofer.com

Instagram: @officialrockytheroofer

Linkedin: Rocky McKay

Facebook: Rocky The Roofer

Youtube: @rockytheroofer8466

Image Credits
@StilesProductions

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.