Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.
🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership
- Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
- At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam.
- Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines.
2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts
- Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products).
- Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network.
- Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth.
3. HR as a Strategic Asset
- HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues.
- Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs.
- HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams.
4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing
- Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta.
- Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces.
- Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure.
5. Making Art Accessible
- The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences.
- Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying.
- Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art.
6. Recognition & Impact
- Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024).
- Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike.
- Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship.
💬 Notable Quotes
- “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.”
- “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.”
- “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.”
- “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.”
- “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.”
- “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.”
🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane
- Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company
- YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company
- Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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