Atlas, one of our favorite holidays, that just so happens to fall on the same day as our other

favorite holiday, what can be better than an entire day, weekend centered on fathers and freedom, and legacy. This year is different- Juneteenth x Father's Day can only mean one thing, we get to talk about fatherhood, wealth, and legacy!

We decided to sit down with two of Houston, Texas's very own black, legacy living fathers to truly pull the significance of “Juneteenth-ers-Day”…ok so it’s not a word, but grab your pen and paper (or ipad) and take notes because the gems below from three of Houston’s notable paid papa’s are loaded!

Richard Andrews, Founder Houston Black Heritage Festival

Best Advice from your Father?

"Reclaiming Our Legacy... my father told me years ago, the true measure of a man is his family and our seeds are our most precious resources, not our career, or job, it’s our children. Today, we’re standing on the shoulders of giants who made significant sacrifices and contributions for us to be here. We must now take the baton and run as fast as possible keeping with one aim in mind, that is to advance the cause of our people. We must run as fast as possible with one goal in mind, that is to advance the cause of our people.”

Mr. Andrews has lovingly become all of God Houston’s father, his love can be felt every Saturday giving meals to those in 3rd and 5th ward and every summer at the hottest block party celebrating black heritage as we know it! Grab yourself and the dad’s in you life a ticket today: www.houstonblackheritagefest.com

Ed Ryland

What does “Generational Wealth” mean to you?

"I don’t just think of generational wealth from a monetary perspective. Sure, it’s important to build and pass down family assets, but, It is also equally important to pass down the knowledge of how to build Generational Wealth and Impact Wealth. How are you impacting the lives of those less fortunate? When you combine the two, assets and impact that’s true generational wealth and my goal."

Ryland boasts more than 25 years of expert knowledge and experience in real estate brokerage, consulting, and tenant and landlord representation. He is also a notable thought leader and community advocate. His philanthropy-meets-business model inspired him to create the Economic Development and Diversity Institute for the Houston Association of Realtors. Likewise, Ryland created the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council’s CEO Academy, a program that exposes minority business owners to the CEOs of major corporations to gain strategic thinking and leadership skills. Determined to continue his service to community and minority-owned companies, Ryland shared his extensive insight in his informative book, The Secrets to Building a Successful Minority-Owned Company. The accomplished real estate expert, community leader, entrepreneur and author is also the National Vice Chair of the National Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee. His determination to address generational wealth gaps resulted in the appropriately titled In My Own Community (IMOC), a program focusing on building capital within underserved and underinvested communities.

A must have book for every dad building generational wealth, grab your copy for a dad in your life today: www.edryland.com

Dr. Harry L. Smith, Jr.

Why is generational wealth building so vital?

"Building generational wealth is so vital… especially in the African American community, where we experience the largest economic inequality in America. Our culture has the lowest net worth, yet spends the most disposable income; compared to other cultures. This is why we need generational wealth… not just for the income or potential stability… but for the knowledge and wisdom, to intern, keep the legacy alive; while creating generational wealth for decades at a time. These teachings along the way, help transform the mind, which transforms the actions, therefore delivering different results. Results that are sustainable, impactful, wealth building, character building and rewarding! These will be the necessary steps, to help close the gap on economic inequality, education and financial security."

(Dr. Mya Smith Edmonds speaking about her father Dr. Harry L. Smith, Jr.)

I hope you took notes, because these dads are truly men of a preferred cloth and the wisdom doesn't stop there, visit their sites, support and connect. Happy Father’s Day Houston.