We had the good fortune of connecting with Vaughnthabest and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Vaughnthabest, is there something you believe many others might not?
You can only have one “niche” to succeed on social media platforms. On my Vaughnthabest YouTube channel, I create music reviews, Tha Jvaughnology Podcast, and lifestyle content. I know in my spirit that one day someone will stumble on my content, wanting to hear a different perspective and view of life. And me keeping a certain niche or opinion would keep me in a box that I refuse to stay in. Every second, minute, and hour, people and perspectives are changing to help us all grow. Even on my TikTok profile, I dive more into mental health and a hint of fashion, so all sides of me will show to my views and supporters. I truly believe that not one person should be put in a box with a specific niche because humans are all multifaceted in their own way. Different perspectives keep the world going.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My Youtube channel (Vaughnthabest) and podcast (Tha Jvaughnology Podcast) is a love letter to myself. How it sets me apart from others is that it shows my growth from video to video and episode to episode, showing that I’m evolving. It was not easy at all; being vulnerable was something that never came easy to me. Being black, gay, and from the Midwest, people want you to stay in a little box so that you will not embarrass or upstage them. I feel like every day is a fight mentally to continue to voice my opinion on matters, but hearing from supporters that “your videos put a smile on my face today” or “your podcast really helps me look at things in a different light” makes it all worth it to me. Lessons I learned along the way are that nothing is ever going to be perfect when you create content, and grace for myself is very important. What I want people to know about me is that God put me on this earth with an open heart and has given me a gift of perspective that I will share with the world. My brand is me in front of the camera and without the camera.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Little Five Points hands down. I love the energy of that place. As a teenager, that was always my first stop. The vintage stores are amazing when it comes to clothes, records, and CDs; it’s such a breath of fresh air. Then I would have them try Hattie B’s Chicken. After that, depending on the time, I would love to show them the high art museum to soak in the culture and art.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shout out to my friends and family for always supporting me in my content, but to be honest, I would want to shout myself out for not giving up. I feel like there was a point in my life where I didn’t understand the importance of my voice and perspective on life. Which now I do, and that’s why I love sharing my opinion and experiences with my supporters on my YouTube and podcast to help whoever needs a pick me up or just hear another perspective on life.
Website: YouTube.com/vaughnthabest
Instagram: YouTube.com/vaughnthabest
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