Today we’d like to introduce you to Emmanuel Wallace.
Hi Emmanuel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Memphis-based contractor and the owner of Wallace Residential Services. My path into this work really started long before I ever thought about owning a business. Construction and property work were part of my family environment growing up. My uncle and aunt started Shinault Realty and at one point owned dozens of homes in the Frayser area of Memphis. My cousins were also involved in real estate and even converted a two-story residential home into a retirement home while continuing to invest in additional properties.
Because of that environment, I spent a lot of time around job sites and residential projects as a kid. Starting around the age of nine, my uncles, aunts, and cousins had me helping with different types of work around properties. At the time it felt like a way to keep me out of trouble, but looking back it was one of the most valuable learning experiences I could have had. That’s where I first learned the fundamentals of residential construction and the importance of maintaining properties the right way.
I joined the U.S. Army when I was 17 years old while still in high school. I later deployed to Afghanistan as a Combat Engineer. My primary responsibility was route clearance, removing threats from roadways. Also protecting other soldiers during high-risk missions. The role required discipline, teamwork, and the ability to stay focused under pressure. During my service I was awarded the Purple Heart, the NATO Service Medal, and an Army Achievement Medal. Those experiences shaped my work ethic and the way I approach challenges today.
After returning home, I began taking on residential repair and maintenance projects and formally started Wallace Residential Services. As the work grew, I also launched Freight Runners Logistics to pursue opportunities in transportation and logistics. Both businesses continue to operate today and have allowed me to build opportunities while staying rooted in Memphis. Alongside building my businesses, my family has always been a big part of my motivation. I’m a husband and a father of six, and providing stability and opportunity for my family is a major reason I work as hard as I do. Balancing business ownership, family life, and service to the community keeps me grounded and reminds me why building something meaningful matters.
Today my focus through Wallace Residential Services is working with homeowners, investors, and property managers throughout the Memphis area handling residential maintenance, repairs, and improvements. My goal is to provide reliable service, clear communication, and quality work while continuing to grow the company and serve the community. As a veteran, I’m also passionate about supporting and protecting my fellow veterans and doing my part to help create opportunities for them whenever possible.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like many small business owners, one of the biggest challenges has been learning how to build and grow a business while still being the person out in the field doing the work. In the early stages especially, you’re responsible for everything — the labor, scheduling, materials, communication with clients, and making sure the job gets done right.
At the same time, I’m also a husband and a father of six, so balancing the responsibilities of running businesses while still being present for my family has been one of the biggest challenges and motivations. Building something meaningful isn’t just about work for me — it’s about creating stability and opportunity for my family while setting the right example for my children.
My background in the military also shaped how I approach challenges. Serving as a Combat Engineer taught me to stay calm under pressure and focus on solutions instead of problems. That mindset carries over into my work today, whether it’s solving a difficult repair or managing multiple responsibilities as a business owner.
Every obstacle along the way has been a learning experience. Each challenge has helped me grow both as a contractor and as a business owner. My focus now is continuing to improve, build strong relationships with clients and partners, and expand the work i do throughout the Memphis community.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Wallace Residential Services ?
I’m a Memphis-based residential maintenance and repair company focused on helping homeowners, property managers, and real estate investors keep their properties in good condition. I handle a wide range of residential work including repairs, maintenance, and property improvements. Much of my work involves solving everyday problems that homeowners and property managers face, whether that’s plumbing issues, drywall repairs, exterior maintenance, or preparing properties for new tenants.
What sets me apart is reliability and communication. In property maintenance, one of the biggest frustrations people experience is contractors who don’t show up, don’t communicate clearly, or leave jobs unfinished. My focus is on being dependable, responsive, and making sure the work is done the right way. I’m also a hands-on owner, so I stay directly involved in the projects and make sure quality and accountability remain a priority.
A large part of my work involves supporting property managers and investors who need reliable vendors they can trust to maintain their properties. At the same time, I also work directly with homeowners throughout the Memphis area who need dependable help maintaining or improving their homes.
As a veteran-owned business, discipline, responsibility, and problem-solving are core values that shape how we operate. I’m proud that Wallace Residential Services continues to grow through relationships, trust, and the reputation I build with every project I
complete.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
One thing I would want readers to know is that behind every business there is a story of persistence, family, and community. Everything I’m building with Wallace Residential Services and Freight Runners Logistics is rooted in the values I learned growing up around construction, serving in the military, and providing for my family.
Memphis is home, and I take pride in being able to serve homeowners, property managers, and investors throughout the community. Whether it’s a small repair or a larger project, my goal is always the same — show up, communicate clearly, and get the job done the right way.
As a veteran, I also care deeply about supporting and protecting my fellow veterans and creating opportunities whenever possible. At the end of the day, success for me isn’t just about business growth — it’s about building something that supports my family, helps people in my community, and leaves a positive impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.midsouthservicesgroup.com
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@residential901?_r=1&_t=ZT-94J29cUHDKf
