Phatz
Phatz’s Path to Greatness: A Tale of Passion, Perseverance, and Style
Phatz, an international award-winning fashion designer and celebrity stylist, turned his life’s challenges into a remarkable journey of success and inspiration. His entry into the fashion world was deeply personal, sparked by a transformative moment in his life. “I had got sick, I found out I had kidney failure, and it made me look at things in a different light,” he shares. Revisiting a childhood passion, he decided to pursue fashion design, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Starting in 2016 with hand-sewn designs, Phatz’s early experiences shaped his creative process in profound ways. “It gave me inspiration that I could do anything,” he reflects. Despite limited resources and basic skills, he built a following and realized that learning the technical trade would elevate his craft even further. His move from Richmond, VA, to Atlanta, GA, marked a pivotal transition in his career. “Atlanta had more opportunities for fashion designers,” he explains, crediting the city’s vibrant network and events for helping him grow and connect with industry professionals.
Phatz’s mentors, Bobbie “Designbyeye” Colfield and Vivian “VDinx” Stith, played a significant role in his development as a designer. Bobbie taught him patience and precision on the Marow Machine, while Vivian guided him through creating complete garments and mastering the sewing machine. These lessons laid the foundation for his expertise and creative confidence.
Breakthrough Moments That Defined a Career
Phatz’s career trajectory skyrocketed after his debut at Miami Fashion Week in 2016. “It gave me the confidence to know that I wasn’t good enough,” he humbly admits, recalling how the experience motivated him to refine his craft. The encouragement he received solidified his belief in his potential.
Showcasing at international events like Dubai Fashion Week and Greece Fashion Week further cemented his status as a global designer. “It solidified me as an International Designer,” he says, describing these milestones as some of the most memorable experiences in his journey.
Among his many magazine features, one project stands out: styling celebrity Travis Cure from Tyler Perry’s The Oval for the cover of Upscale Magazine. “It’s the only public magazine where my work made the cover,” he shares, emphasizing the significance of this achievement in his career.
Building the Phatz Empire
Driven by a relentless pursuit of success, Phatz has expanded his brand to include fragrances, wine, resort wear, lingerie, accessories, and more. “I want Phatz to become an empire,” he declares. His vision is to create a one-stop shop for all fashion needs, offering unique and original designs that push creative boundaries.
The upcoming launch of his shoe line is another exciting chapter in his journey. With innovative tools and patterns, he’s crafting designs that blend trends with his signature creativity. “It gives me the tools to switch up colors, styles, and designs,” he explains, ensuring his shoe line will stand out in the market.
Achievements and Giving Back
Phatz’s accolades, including “Atl Hottest Designer” and “Fashion Boutique of the Year,” are a testament to his hard work and dedication. But his proudest achievement lies in his nonprofit, the Phatz Foundation. Rooted in his own struggles as a newcomer in the fashion industry, the foundation empowers underprivileged youth and supports various causes. “I want to help empower them and give them a sense of ‘I am someone,’” he says, reflecting his commitment to making a difference.
The annual Phatz Honors Giveback Awards is a unique initiative that celebrates unsung heroes. He recalls two memorable recipients: a caregiver who selflessly dedicated her life to her husband and a hardworking friend whose contributions to fashion and film were finally recognized.
Looking Ahead
Phatz is gearing up for his exclusive New York Fashion Week show in Fall 2024, a milestone that will solidify his place among the world’s top designers. “They will get an experience, more than a regular show,” he promises, aiming to leave a lasting impression on attendees.
His third book, part of a trilogy, will detail his journey in the fashion industry, education, and life. “I want to motivate and inspire others,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and finding the silver lining in every challenge.
Long-term, Phatz envisions his brand becoming as iconic as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Vera Wang. “I want Phatz to ring bells when mentioned,” he says, aspiring to leave a legacy for his family and future generations.
Personal Insights and Advice
Balancing his fashion empire, education, and philanthropy is no easy feat, but Phatz finds motivation in the simple act of waking up each day. “We’re not guaranteed that, so when you do, you’re supposed to make the next day better than the day before,” he says. His advice to aspiring designers is straightforward: “Never give up, always put your all into your work, and never be afraid to invest in yourself.”
If given the chance, he would love to collaborate with Dior or Chanel, admiring their contributions to fashion and their focus on empowering women of all sizes. For Phatz, fashion is more than clothing—it’s empowerment. “I love to make an outfit for someone and see their confidence shoot sky high,” he says, describing the transformative power of his designs.
Phatz’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings to international acclaim, he continues to inspire and uplift through his work, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion world.
Butter Knife Shawty
Cooking Up Success: Butter Knife Shawty BBQ’s Fusion of Music and Barbecue
Born and raised in Decatur, also known as Scottdale, Georgia, my journey began in the heart of the South, surrounded by the warmth of family and the rich traditions of Southern culture. It was here, alongside my grandfather, that I discovered my passion for barbecue. My grandfather, a true BBQ enthusiast, passed down his love for the craft, teaching me everything from selecting the finest cuts of meat to mastering the art of the perfect smoke. His passion was contagious, and those lessons became the foundation of my journey to becoming one of the best pitmasters in Atlanta and beyond.
Cooking with my grandfather was more than just learning a skill—it was an immersion into the heart of what makes Southern traditions so special. Every dish carried a story, every flavor a memory, and it was through these moments that I developed a deep appreciation for the culture and history of Georgia barbecue.
The Roots of Music and BBQ Fusion
Music has been a part of my life since I was six years old. I dreamed of being a star like Michael Jackson and admired the iconic presence of Barry White, especially his unforgettable beard. Growing up, my love for music grew alongside my passion for cooking. When I moved to Rockdale County during my teenage years, I found myself surrounded by a vibrant music scene that shaped my creative journey. It was here that I met my mentor and producer, DJ Smoove, who groomed me into the talented rapper I am today.
Balancing my love for music and BBQ has always been about finding harmony between these two passions. They are deeply intertwined, with the soulful sounds of the South inspiring both my music and my BBQ creations. Whether I’m crafting a new track or developing a new BBQ recipe, the process is rooted in storytelling and connecting with people on an emotional level.
Journey and Inspirations
My journey has been shaped by incredible inspirations—musically, legends like Michael Jackson and Barry White have guided my sound, while my culinary roots are firmly planted in my grandfather’s teachings and the rich BBQ culture of Georgia. The moment I realized I could combine my two passions into a unique brand was when I saw how both music and BBQ brought people together. They created unforgettable experiences, blending flavors and melodies into something truly special.
Of course, the road hasn’t always been easy. Pursuing both music and BBQ has come with its challenges, but perseverance and a supportive community have helped me overcome them. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve and deepened my love for what I do.
Sharing My Passions on YouTube
My YouTube channel is a space where I bring my passions to life for a wider audience. Viewers can expect a mix of music performances, BBQ tutorials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into my creative process. One of my favorite videos is a BBQ recipe I dedicated to my grandfather—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the man who inspired my journey.
Connecting with my audience is all about authenticity. Through music and BBQ, I share what I love and invite others to join me on this flavorful and soulful adventure.
Celebrating Georgia’s Culture and Legacy
Georgia’s rich culture is woven into everything I create. From the local spices in my BBQ rubs to the melodies in my songs, the essence of Georgia is always present. It’s a celebration of the traditions and flavors that make the South so unique.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Goals
The future is bright for Butter Knife Shawty BBQ. I’m thrilled to announce my upcoming event, BBQ Love Fest, on May 3 in Tampa, Florida. There, I’ll be serving up some of my signature Georgia barbecue and performing my single, “Run From It.” I also have plans to bring my music and BBQ to more live events and festivals, sharing my passions with even more people.
A Personal Touch
If I could cook a BBQ dish for any musician, past or present, it would be Michael Jackson. His influence on my music is profound, and sharing my culinary creations with him would be an honor. As for a present-day musician, I’d love to cook for Teddy Swims. Being from Rockdale County, he knows good country boy BBQ, and I think he’d appreciate the flavors and traditions that go into my dishes.
To anyone looking to pursue their passions, whether it’s music, cooking, or both, my advice is simple: stay true to yourself and never give up on your dreams. Lastly, one thing my fans might not know about me is that every dish I create is a tribute to my family and the Southern traditions that shaped me.
With Butter Knife Shawty BBQ, every beat and every bite is a celebration of passion, creativity, and the rich culture of Georgia.
Joyce White
Lights, Camera, Faith: Joyce White’s Journey in Entertainment
Joyce White’s story is one of inspiration, determination, and unwavering faith. From humble beginnings in church productions to a flourishing career in acting, hosting, and entrepreneurship, she embodies the perfect blend of creativity, resilience, and purpose. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.
The Spark of Inspiration
Joyce’s acting career was ignited by a heartfelt moment during a church production. After a Christmas performance, a church member she admired pulled her aside and said, “You should pursue acting outside of the church.” This pivotal encouragement planted the seed for what would become a 21-year journey in the entertainment industry. Her experiences in Easter and Christmas productions were transformative, allowing her to express herself on stage and discover the joy of entertaining an audience. “It made my heart feel at peace,” she recalls.
A Rewarding Career in Acting
Throughout her career, Joyce has embraced diverse roles across indie films, commercials, and theater productions. Her most rewarding role to date was playing a scientist and lead character in 3 Day Weekendwith The Peoples Network. She credits her ability to adapt to different mediums—whether on stage or screen—to understanding the unique requirements of each and tapping into her creativity to deliver excellence.
However, the path hasn’t been without challenges. Balancing a full-time job with acting and finding representation in Atlanta proved difficult. But Joyce’s resourcefulness and determination led her to think outside the box, securing temporary employment to support her passion and finding an agent in Wilmington, NC, who operates in the Atlanta area.
A particularly memorable moment in her acting career was her role as Pookie in the theater production The Hallelujah House. It was her first time singing and rapping on stage, a task she initially found daunting. Thanks to the guidance and reassurance of the late director, Ms. Sharon, and plenty of rehearsals, Joyce overcame her fears and delivered a performance she’ll never forget.
The Evolution of a Radio and TV Host
In 2013, Joyce ventured into radio after spotting a Facebook post by Chuck Brown about the Survival Radio Network’s expansion. Inspired by the opportunity to empower, encourage, and educate, she created Faith Walk with Joyce White Show, which aired for seven years. Over time, the show expanded its reach, being rebroadcast on two additional platforms and opening doors for Joyce to work as a media correspondent and television host.
Her television hosting journey included Show Me Your Shortson Comcast, where she interviewed independent filmmakers. Joyce fondly remembers the experience, describing it as a blessing made easy by the show’s creator, Kervin James. “I absolutely loved hosting,” she says.
For Joyce, balancing her faith with her entertainment work is essential. She stays connected to God by listening to the Holy Spirit through dreams and thoughts, often drawing inspiration from affirmations and motivational messages.
Entrepreneurship and JL White Productions LLC
In 2016, Joyce took her passion for entertainment to the next level by founding JL White Productions LLC. Guided by the mission to “Empower, Educate, and Entertain the World,” the company is a reflection of her deep desire to spread joy and demonstrate the love of Christ. “It means a lot to me because God entrusted me with this assignment,” she shares.
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is rooted in practicality and faith: “Do your research, and make sure you are ready for the challenges and sacrifices necessary to have a successful entertainment business.” Joyce ensures her work aligns with her values by meditating, praying, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
As Joyce looks to the future, her sights are set on mainstream television as a host and continuing her acting career in films. To achieve these goals, she is focused on consistency and rebranding herself as an entertainer with the help of mentors and industry experts. She is also hopeful about resuming her radio ministry on a new platform by the end of 2025.
Faith, Inspiration, and Legacy
Throughout her journey, Joyce has drawn inspiration from mentors like Klarque Garrison, who motivated her during her time on the Survival Radio Christian Network. She stays grounded through prayer, meditation, and surrounding herself with positive influences.
When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, Joyce’s answer is both heartfelt and inspiring: “I want people to know that anything you put your mind to do, you can achieve. Always believe in yourself and eliminate negative people who show you they are not in your corner. Stay humble, be encouraged no matter what, and always operate in the spirit of excellence! We work unto God and not man.”
Joyce White’s journey is a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, passion, and faith. Her story continues to inspire, reminding us all that with determination and trust in God, anything is possible.