We had the good fortune of connecting with Willie Harrell, Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Willie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Growth in myself was the first thing. I felt the organizations and/or companies I worked for, prevented that or controlled that direction narrative. I wanted that control! Then the ability to run a business the right way, in my humble opinion, became the focus and reward. The way the consumer is treated, is my focal point, especially after sitting in the background and not being able to do what you may think is right, because of course; I wasn’t in charge.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

This is not just a business and I’m not just a dog trainer, we are a pack of great and responsible pet owners. Yes, I will train your pup to the expected level you wish, but then the fun happens when you get the pet and owner relationship that you always wanted. After the training, I become the ‘pet parent mentor’ that will hold you accountable as an owner, challenge you in areas you never thought were possible, and provide immediate help when needed.

As of now, I don’t consider myself to be where I want to be in business at this point in time, because the end goal is building franchises and supporting other young black entrepreneurs in the world of pet training.

Business shouldn’t be viewed as an easy or hard to do task, because you get out of it, what you put into it. So, I create goals or self expectations for myself to encourage the direction of my growth and motivate the upward movement; through business and life.

My two biggest takeaways in running a business, is to know when to say ‘no’ because all money isn’t good money; then of course when people show you who they are, believe them the first time.

My brand is me and the person I am, whether you are a friend or a client, I’m gonna be straightforward with you regardless if I feel you are right or wrong. I will work harder than the next person, and while they are sleeping, I’m working. Perfection May not exist but I will do all in my power to get there.

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.
See I love the gym and I love to eat, that way they balance each other out. So the two main spots we are gonna hit will be The ‘Loaded Bake Potato’ and The Turkey leg. I’m an avid biker, so everywhere we roll, will be on two’s. When the day comes to an end, we will chill with some fine cigars. Late night snack at Yanceys Food Truck will close out the night!

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?
Man, first and foremost, the man upstairs deserves all the praise and then comes my family. They have supported my moves when I was at the top, when I failed miserably and now as I climb again. My extended family of ‘Shenanigan’ supporters, they never shoot me down, always provide words of encouragement and celebrate my success with me. There are a few others and they know who they are, especially the young lady who blings out her motorcycle; Her words always hit their mark. Thank you! Mad love for those guys because we all win if I win!

Website: www.Technizian.com

Instagram: @da_technizian

Facebook: @TheTechnizian

Yelp: https://youtube.com/channel/UCdqbEKBDZTnkRFe9irXITpg

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