The People You Need To Know Story
Posted by myideas1 on November 17th, 2008
Like every great story, the People You Need to Know story has very humble beginnings.
Many years ago - 1993 to be precise - Anthony “Spark Plug” Thomas, started a business publication in Atlanta, Georgia, called the African-American Business Locator. Fueled only by his passion and a $3,000 loan from his late brother, Robert Lee Thomas, Jr. (1961-2008), Spark Plug’s dream of providing small businesses with affordable advertising began.
His first publishing endeavor was a tiny, black and white, digest-sized publication that included paid business listings. Always the creative businessman, Spark Plug was constantly looking for new avenues to help his 
customers generate more business. Before long, word started to spread around metro Atlanta about this ingenious young man who worked so hard to help his clients get new customers.
In 2000, the publication was renamed People You Need to Know because Spark Plug believed everyone needed to get to know a local dentist, physician, attorney, realtor, etc. Also in 2000, he decided to give full-page ads to every advertiser so they could all receive the best possible exposure at an affordable price.
In 2007, People You Need to Know on Spark Plug Radio was launched online and the show quickly became a favorite in the metro Atlanta business community. The radio show also has listeners around the country and the world. Podbean.com reports that the People You Need to Know Radio Show interviews are being downloaded in more than 35 countries.
In 2008, People You Need to Know formed a partnership with the Atlanta History Center to archive and preserve their Destined for Greatness radio interview series for present and future generations of researchers.
Today, People You Need to Know is metro Atlanta’s premiere business spotlight publication with an annual circulation of more than 500,000. It is distributed by the nation’s largest distributor of free publications and is available at Kroger, Publix, Blockbuster, Sears, Kmart, Bally’s Fitness Centers and online. More important, the publication is the engine that drives all marketing and publicity opportunities the company offers its clients.
People You Need to Know in print, on radio, via podcast, iTunes and on the web works to make life a little easier for anyone searching for quality business people in the metro Atlanta area.
In 2009, People You Need to Know will continue to participate in metro Atlanta’s major trade shows, business expos, health fairs, festivals and shopping mall events.
People You Need to Know, Inc. “works hard to help people find your business.”
November 17th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I loved reading about the beginning of this wonderful journey. Keep up the excellent work!
November 17th, 2008 at 10:49 pm
I always wondered how it all started and the story behind what you do. I admire people who start with so little and build something great!
November 18th, 2008 at 6:45 am
@Dori I’m glad you enjoyed our story and we always appreciate your encouragement, and support!
@Heidi There you go…now you know about our little mom and pop beginning. I always wanted to be a part of something that was just starting up, so I got my wish.
November 18th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Reading different stories from your articles is not only educational but also inspirational like this one. Great story of success.
November 18th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
Simply awesome! It’s always great when you have a vision, and see it all the way through to its success! I’m happy for you, and hope to see your mag grow even more! Keep up the good work!
November 21st, 2008 at 5:39 am
@Emirie Glad we could spread a little inspiration around.
@Fitness Diva Thank you. Your encouragement is very much appreciated!
November 21st, 2008 at 8:23 am
Kudos to Anthony and the crew. You guys to an awesome job bringing the professionals to the people and the people to the professionals.
November 26th, 2008 at 4:10 am
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
Betty
http://www.my-foreclosures.info