Perseverance: She became a mother at 16, dropped out of high school, now runs a multi-million dollar law firm.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Attorney Tessie D. Edwards. A family and criminal law attorney based in Atlanta, Georgia. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and themes from the episode: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Life & Adversity Tessie Edwards grew up in a challenging environment marked by poverty, teen pregnancy, and systemic injustice. She became a mother at 16, dropped out of high school, and had her second child by 18. Despite these challenges, she never lost sight of her dream to become a lawyer. 2. Turning Point A pivotal moment came when someone told her that her daughter looked like her. That realization sparked a deep desire to become someone her daughter could look up to. 3. Relentless Pursuit of Education Earned her GED, then an associate degree to qualify for military service. After a brief stint in the military (cut short due to pregnancy and miscarriage), she pursued higher education. Graduated from Indiana University with five children and went on to law school with her then-husband. 4. Professional Success Now runs a multi-million dollar law firm in Atlanta, Georgia. Has handled over 2,000 criminal cases and is deeply committed to serving families in crisis. Her firm has been serving the Atlanta community for over 15 years. 5. Support System Credits her success to a strong support network: her husband (who co-runs the firm), her children, her brother, and her team. Emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision. 6. Advice & Motivation Be clear about your goals and stay focused. Don’t wait for the “right time”—start now. Believe in your dream even when others don’t. Use adversity as fuel for your ambition. 💬 Memorable Quotes “I feel thankful but not satisfied.” “My life was so divinely chosen… I was just given a dream and the courage to go after it.” “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.