The Atlanta Story podcast features meaningful stories of Atlanta’s builders, creators, and entrepreneurs. In this episode Jon Birdsong sits down with Shannon Heath Longino, Senior Vice President at Truist Bank where she works on affordable housing initiatives. Shannon was raised by her grandmother, Eva Davis, in the storied East Lake Meadows neighborhood. Through community organization, Shannon was on the front line of transitioning a neighborhood towards greater economic mobility, enhanced resources and infrastructure, and access to education. 

In today’s interview, Shannon shares stories from East Lake’s transformation, lessons and values she learned from her grandmother, her perspective on affordable housing, education, and more.

The Atlanta Story is put together by the folks at Atlanta Ventures -- and we can’t wait to share some of the personalities behind the brand. Atlanta Ventures invests in entrepreneurs through community, content, and capital -- most notably through our Studio with companies like Greenzie and Intown Golf Club. We believe the best entrepreneurs learn from other great artists in different fields.

In this episode, we discuss…

1. Shannon describes her experience being born and raised in Atlanta. (1:33)
2. What are some of the grassroots community organizing efforts that you saw work in East lake meadows? (3:10)
3. Could you give an example of your grandmother organizing in the community? (7:52)
4. The neighborhood of East Lake Meadows had a revitalization. Would you walk us through that experience? (9:18)
5. Transitioning to Shannon's story, what were some of the obstacles she took from East Lake Meadows to the military? (13:46)
6. Shannon discussed the vote to move forwards with the revitalization of East Lake and other measures. (21:18) 
7. Do you think that this revitalization is repeatable and scalable across the country? (24:02)
8. Fast forwarding to today, Shannon is involved in charter schools. The opportunities given to people from this is a generational changing moment. Shannon discusses the benefits that this education gives. (29:48)
9. Shannon shares insight into the impact that Tour Championship has in Atlanta. (36:18)
10. Who do the benefits of Tour go to? (38:35)
11. It's very clear that you are passionate about stewarding your grandmother's purpose and mission. How do you take this into Truist every day? (40:33)
12. How Truist helps outside of Georgia (41:59)
13. Affordable housing is a hot topic right now in Atlanta. What would be your council to the leadership today on Affordable housing? (43:30)
14. Why Atlanta and what has Atlanta done for you? (48:40)

How you can get involved: 

Visit atlantaventures.com/studio if you’re interested in learning more about Atlanta Ventures and the Studio. 

Where you can find us:

Website: www.atlstory.com

Twitter: @theatlantastory

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