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

Hi Yarnell, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I have learned that taking a risk is often the most important step toward success. When you play it safe, you never really realize your fullest potential, or that of your dreams. I have been known to play it very safe, because there is a certain level of comfort in being able to predict the outcome. But, I decided to start taking risks about 12 years ago when I moved to Atlanta from Detroit. After making such a big move (moreso a leap of faith), I started to trust my decision making more and more over time.

My move to Atlanta led to me taking risks in other areas of my life…from my career, to decisions about traveling abroad alone (I’m terrified of flying). Betting on myself has been the best decision I could have ever made.


Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started my career in retail at the age of 15. I have worked in all sorts of retail spaces, from department stores to mono-brands. And my goal was to absorb as much information and knowledge about the business of fashion as I could. I have always had a love and passion for fashion as an artistic expression. But, I found myself really delving into the business aspect of the industry, versus the artistic side (for now).

Hard work is what really allowed me to advance in my career. It has not been easy, but it has been very rewarding in many ways. I overcame most of my challenges by accepting responsibility for my failures (opportunities). And every time I “failed” I examined the process and my actions, and searched for areas in which I could be better.

The greatest lessons that I have learned along the way is that people are a companies biggest asset. And to lead by example. I would never ask someone to do something that I am not willing to do, or haven’t already done. And to do the work, and the money/advancement will come.

I would want the world to know that my “brand”/story is still unfolding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has so much to offer, with world class attractions and entertainment. I would definitely take them to Piedmont park. I feel like it’s the Central Park of Atlanta…and it’s my favorite outdoor space.

Great restaurants are plentiful here, so we would go to a few of my favorite places like Arnette’s Chop House, and Slutty Vegan.

And then I would honestly try to get out of the city and head to the North Georgia Mountains and stay at a tiny cabin at Getaway, or go to Savannah.

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?
When I think about my journey, professionally and personally, I have been blessed with a lot of unwavering support from two of my very best friends, Brandon and Reggie, have always been there to support anything that I have done. No matter how big or small. No matter when or where I need them…they are there!

I am also a lover of books. And A Return To Love by Marianne Williamson really spoke to me in a way that no other book has. It helped me to understand that so many of my actions and behaviors are linked to craving the love that is inherently mine.

Instagram: itsmr.yt

Image Credits
Photo with the suit was taken by Carlos Jones Photo with the blue turtleneck is by Elvis Piedra

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