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

Hi Terrence, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
In 2019, I was at the height of my business career thus far and I had a life threatening accident. This tragic event took me out of commission for the entire 4th quarter. From the moment I know that would be the case, I paid the remainder of my bills and overhead business cost in advance. At the end of the year, I realized how happy I was to take time to myself to recover, heal, rest, and be present. This is what started my “take 1 full quarter off per year” life rule. In this time, I travel, meditate, don’t feel bad for being lazy, spend time with friends/family, etc. It is truly just the beginning to my work/life balance. I want to go from 1 quarter to 2 quarter, 3 quarters to 4!

What should our readers know about your business?
The Taking The Town Team (or the T3Team) is an All Black Male real estate group that focuses on memorable client service and organic relationship building. What sets us apart is the authenticity and genuine love we have for those we work alongside. Being a black male in the real estate industry is truly a challenge, for several reasons. This wouldn’t be my first time feeling like an outcast because my collegiate experience at Stanford University was in a place that many felt I “didn’t belong”. I am excited about creating opportunities for young creatives, designers, mathematicians, and entrepreneurs alike. This is a space created for those who want to experience growth, challenge, high achievement, and unforgettable moments.

Building this brand has not been easy but worth every minute. The lessons of “self love”, “running your business like a business” and knowing it’s “never too late to do what your heart desires” are just some of the many ideals I’d love to carry through life.

When someone mentions “Terrence Takes The Town” I want them to remember the value of working with someone who genuinely loves and sacrifices for HIS people. This is about life long relationships and generational wealth building. My team is focused on the importance of network and service to the community.

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.
We will hike, eat wonderfully, fish the waters, drive to the mountains, bike the beltline, see the top 3 rated museums in the area, and sit at my backyard bonfire. Atlanta is truly such a melting pot of amazingness. Depending on the season, the weather is usually cooperative. Desta Ethiopian Kitchen, Beetlecat for Oysters, Char for Korean BBQ, Spoon for Thai food, and Rumi’s Kitchen for Persian cuisine, just to name a few. I would love to show them several different parks while spending most of the time touring the East Side and West Side Beltlines. If we wanted to sit outside by a brewery, Lee & White is the perfect place. Thankfully, my home in Hapeville is a sweet hangout spot as I completely renovated the backyard to include a Cabana, Firepit, Outdoor Kitchen, 6 seat bar, TV, Pergola, dog park and garden. Truly, a place to entertain! I’d love to grab random coffee/tea at Carroll Street cafe and see some of the most historic places around town. From Alpharetta and Avalon Pavilion to the Fayette County/Peachtree City, there is SOOOO much to do around this great state.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
MY VILLAGE! Whew, my entire village. Starting with GOD because without our relationship and your continued grace, none of this would be possible. My mother Tracey Stephens deserves so much praise and glory. She raised one exemplary man, by herself. After those two, every real friend, client, stranger, silent supporter, etc. Everybody who loves me unconditionally and pushes me to pour the best parts of myself out into the world. Being an only child with a small family literally means you create community and family for self. I wouldn’t trade my chosen family for the world

Website: TerrenceTakesTheTown.com

Instagram: TerrenceTakesTheTown

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/terrencedstephens

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrence.stephens.758/

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