Why Downtown Atlanta Still Isn’t Working — And the Future of South Downtown | Jon Birdsong

Why Downtown Atlanta Still Isn’t Working — And the Future of South Downtown | Jon Birdsong

Downtown Atlanta should be the heart of this city. So why doesn’t it feel like it? In this episode of Tharon’s Take, Jon Birdsong joins Tharon Johnson for a real conversation about the future of Downtown and South Downtown Atlanta — from density and development to MARTA, public safety, walkability, and whether Atlanta is truly ready for the World Cup. This isn’t a surface-level conversation. It’s an honest look at what’s working, what’s not, and what it’s really going to take for downtown Atlanta to thrive. Jon breaks down the vision behind revitalizing South Downtown, including the acquisition of 10 city blocks and more than 50 historic buildings, why public safety and mental health services are critical to long-term success, and how infrastructure improvements — especially around Five Points MARTA Station — could reshape the future of the city. The conversation also dives into the reality of preparing for the FIFA World Cup, what visitors and residents can realistically expect, and why creating a true sense of place, affordability, and community will ultimately determine whether downtown Atlanta succeeds. If Atlanta is going to become the best version of itself, these are the conversations we need to be having. 🎧 Watch the full episode now. #TharonsTake #Atlanta #DowntownAtlanta #SouthDowntown #ATL #CityPlanning #UrbanDevelopment #MARTA #WorldCup #AtlantaGrowth #FIFAWorldCup

Christian Ries, Building a Community Through Wine!

In this episode of Tharon’s Take, Tharon Johnson sits down with Christian Ries, founder and CEO of The Perlant, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, wine culture, and building intentional community in Atlanta. Born in South Africa and originally coming to Georgia on a golf scholarship, Christian shares his journey from professional golf to entrepreneurship and the mindset shifts that came with reinventing himself after injury. The conversation explores the sacrifices behind building companies, recognizing “authentic demand,” and what it really takes to create something people genuinely want. They also dive into the vision behind The Perlant — a private social club rooted in wine, hospitality, and human connection — and discuss why spaces like this are resonating right now. Christian explains how The Perlant is working to bring the feeling of wine country to Atlanta while creating a culture centered around humility, generosity, and kindness. This episode is about more than wine — it’s about community, reinvention, and creating experiences that bring people together. 🎧 Watch the full conversation now on Tharon’s Take. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of politics, arts, culture, and business.

Champ Bailey Talks Journey from South Georgia to the NFL and Beyond!

From Folkston, Georgia… to Canton, Ohio. 🏈 Pro Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey sits down with Tharon Johnson for a real conversation about legacy, leadership, football, and life after the NFL. Champ opens up about choosing the University of Georgia, getting drafted by Washington, the blockbuster trade to the Denver Broncos, and the mentorship that shaped his career — including lessons from NFL legend Darrell Green. He also talks about business, cannabis, building for the future, and what the Hall of Fame journey really meant to him beyond the accolades. This is more than football — it’s about discipline, evolution, and leaving a legacy that lasts. 🎧 Watch the full conversation now on Tharon’s Take. #TharonsTake #ChampBailey #NFL #GeorgiaBulldogs #DenverBroncos #HallOfFame #AtlantaCulture #Football #UGA #nfllegends

404 Day: Who Owns Atlanta’s Culture? | The Founders Speak 👀🔥

In this episode of Tharon’s Take, Tharon speaks with the leaders behind 404 Day, a grassroots movement that has become a defining cultural moment in Atlanta. The conversation explores how 404 Day started, what it represents for the city, and how it has grown into a celebration of community, culture, and connection. The group also discusses the challenges that come with growth — including authenticity, ownership, and ensuring that Atlanta creatives and communities continue to benefit. This episode offers a deeper look at the people and ideas behind one of Atlanta’s most unique cultural movements.

How Centennial Yards Will Change Downtown Atlanta Forever with Brian McGowan

In this episode of Tharon’s Take, Tharon speaks with Brian McGowan, President of Centennial Yards, about the future of downtown Atlanta. The conversation centers around Centennial Yards and its role in transforming underutilized space into a more connected, vibrant part of the city. McGowan shares insight into the challenges and opportunities of large-scale development, and what it takes to create a downtown that works for both residents and visitors. They also explore broader themes around growth, infrastructure, and Atlanta’s evolving identity as a major city.