Where are you from and where else have you lived?
I was born and raised in Jackson. Generationally speaking, my entire family is from Jackson. My grandmother was Cousin Tuny, who left a huge Jackson legacy. I did live in Chattanooga for about two hours in 1995, but that is a story for another day. Those who know me know that story well. My friends whose children are heading to college often say to them, “Don’t you dare pull a Brad Little!”
What is your profession and what led you to choose it?
My degree is in both education and mathematics. I taught Algebra II and Geometry at North Side High School for three school years. In 1999, my father, Steve Little, called me and asked if I had any interest in joining him in the investment business through Voya Financial. His niche at the time was the group retirement plan business. I shadowed him and worked part-time after school. Shortly thereafter, I became licensed as a financial advisor. Steve and I worked to expand the team and the volume of group retirement plans and eventually transformed the business to be full wealth management with an emphasis on retirement savings and income planning.
Where do you like to give back?
Giving back to this community that raised me is incredibly important. Over the years, I have served on various boards and committees from church and the Red Cross to the Jackson Arts Council. Currently, I serve as co-chair for the Hospice Home committee for West Tennessee Healthcare. Through our business, we give back to the clients we serve through sponsorships to support the arts, healthcare initiatives, and more.
What are some of your favorite things about Jackson?
Jackson is a big city but still a small town. I am fortunate to have many friends in Jackson, and that fact provides me with comfort and a strong sense of community, love, and support. Jackson is an eclectic place where history, music and arts, education, healthcare, and innovation all converge. There is something for everyone, and if it cannot be found, our unique position on I-40 provides quick access to sister cities, Memphis and Nashville. The future of Jackson and West Tennessee is very bright on all fronts.
Three words that best describe you.
I decided to pick four words! The thesaurus gave me too many choices: Compassionate. Loyal. Optimistic. Engaged.
What do you do in your spare time?
Reading or exercise should be my answers. Honestly, practicing and performing with my a cappella group, The Jukes, provides a needed outlet and keeps me involved with my passion for music. Kevin, Allison, Jennifer, Charlie, and I have been singing together since 1995 with our Southern take on all styles a cappella.
What is one thing that you do not go a day without?
I wish I had a true and unique answer to this question. I could reply with coffee or the like, but that would be everyone’s answer. Therefore, I will say that on a daily basis, I do not go without ensuring that both my staff and my children are safe and cared for.
Finish this statement, I AM JACKSON because…
I was born here, raised here, and am provided for here. I have been immersed in the fabric of this community and am in a unique position to have my finger on the pulse of our city’s heartbeat simply by listening, participating, and serving. I have a vested interest in seeing Jackson thrive, not only for my fellow Jacksonians, but for my employees, my friends, and my children.
This article is from VIP Magazine, a premier publication for events and local coverage throughout Jackson and West Tennessee. https://www.vipjackson.com/feed/2023/ii-am-jackson-brad-little
