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

Hi Wardell, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career because I constantly dream and have visions of different characters and storylines. I love making dreams a reality. The best place to do that is in film and tv. You can be whomever you want become whatever you want.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am an award-winning actor, producer, director, writer and CEO of Raine Dance Films. When it comes to my business I strive to push the bar to do what hasn’t been done and to always be original. I am excited about where my vision has taken my company and the powerful people who stand firm in my growth and refuse to allow me to fail. I got to where I am today by getting disappointed in how others operated their business in the entertainment industry. I came across many false promises, lies and deception. Through the loses I gained the strength to want more and to be the opposite of what I’ve experienced. It certainly wasn’t easy. To build a team with people you trust can be hard to find. A lot of prayer helped me with that. Also, the fact that being good to people brings good people in return. I love my team. I’ve learned to always work with integrity, humbleness and a strong commitment to be the best version of myself to each and everyone. I want the world to know that there were many times I wanted to quit. As a grown man I’ve cried myself to sleep many nights. But through my circle, my family and myself I refuse to lose. I refused to allow my dreams to fade. I refuse to die within myself. I WANT TO LIVE!!!!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend to visit me in town I’d definitely take them to a Ponce City Market in Atlanta. Living here there’s so much to see and experience. Seeing the city from the top of Ponce City Market, Eating at Old Lady Gang restaurant, going to the Painted Duck to bowl, drink, Network or connecting with like-minded people. Walking the streets shopping at Atlantic Station. The list goes on and on.

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?
I’d like to give a shoutout to my mother for believing in me and always supporting me. To Tiffany Roberts who encouraged me to go harder and believe in myself. To Pennye Rogers for supporting my vision and wanting to be a part of my growth and finally my daughter Raine, who changed my life and gave me a reason to keep going. Her unconditional love for me never fades.

Website: www.rainedancefilms.com

Instagram: Officialwardellrichardson

Linkedin: Wardellrichardson

Facebook: Rainedancefilms

Youtube: Wardellrichardson

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.