The Heartbeat of a Neighborhood: Teara Harris & The Rail District

When you meet Teara Harris, you know instantly—this woman is a force. In this episode of WAHNcast, she shares her powerful journey: from overcoming childhood adversity and learning to read in 7th grade, to becoming a preacher, HR pro, nonprofit founder, and real estate developer transforming her hometown.  As the Founder and CEO of Communities of Tomorrow, Teara is on a mission to close the affordable housing gap in rural and small-town communities across Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. Her work at The Rail District is reshaping Lagrange, GA—turning neglected spaces into inclusive, mixed-income neighborhoods with affordable luxury homes, homebuyer assistance programs, and spaces that bring people together.  Teara reminds us that leadership isn’t about popularity—it’s about purpose, persistence, and showing up for your community, especially when it’s hard.  You’ll laugh and you’ll be reminded why home matters.