Meet Jarod O’Brian | The Intellect Connect

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jarod O’Brian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jarod, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Transparently, in 2017 when the idea of Intellect Connect first came about… I was searching for a way to magnify my voice creatively. There wasn’t a single job on the planet that intrigued me. I just knew I wanted to live life on my own terms. However, I understood there wasn’t anyone within my direct access or close circle that truly lived life to this degree. The world runs off of creativity, so I figured the best way to feed mine was to link with other likeminded individuals. I deemed these people as intellects, and I needed to find a way to connect with them. Hence, Intellect Connect was born.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What is most unique about my art is that I am a “jack of all trades.” Innately, I am a writer first – which holds true of why I obtained a B.A. in Journalism. Getting my thoughts out on paper is extremely therapeutic to me. Beyond writing, I like to think of myself as a spokesman too. Delivered video content via social media showcases my abilities to interact and engage with the audience. And, I do it authentically. When I merged the skill set of writing and speaking together they generated an opportunity to motivate people.

Admittedly, I can say this journey has not been all peaches and cream. It has surely been a process. I used to get frustrated when I had to sacrifice going out, traveling and taking part in recreational activities just to study and perfect my craft. The moments of doubt would slowly start to creep in, and I would ask myself – “Is it all worth it?”

But more so than struggle, there is real beauty in the process. Doors are opening and my work is progressively becoming recognizable on a grander scale. With this said, I know there is a gift in staying grounded.

A piece of advice I’d like to offer is once you start to finally gain traction and climb the ladder of success, never forget the initial reason you started. That reason will be what grounds you and keeps you sustained through the toughest times. So, make sure it’s deeper than surface level intentions.

I am, The Intellect Connect; and I stand firmly on my brand’s principles. I‘m more than just a writer, speaker and fashion “finesser.” But, I’m a walking asset.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a vibe, so it really depends on what sets the tone for my mood! Given the fact I’m an Aries, I’m a lively person that truly enjoys my fire being ignited. So if I had a friend visiting Atlanta for a week I’d try to introduce every aspect of the city!

Outside of my normal routine, I’d probably swing them by Slutty Vegan’s, catch a vibe at Traffik, maybe hit Trap Museum and get some bomb ass food. As of late, Pasha really delivers everything I typically look for in one central location – grown & sexy atmosphere, beautiful women, great food, great music and an inviting aura.

It’s so many other places this city has to offer at any given time. Welcome to Atlanta!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I extend a huge Thank You to GOD Himself, because I wouldn’t be on this platform if it wasn’t for him revealing my purpose years ago. He’s The Architect of my life and I’m always reminded that I couldn’t accomplish nearly as much without his divine guidance.

This may sound strange, but I want to say thanks to my life’s experiences that fuel me to continuously build this brand. If it wasn’t for my pain, failures, past traumas, moments of triumph and lessons learned along the way I would not be able to connect with so many people the way I do.

I’d like to shoutout all the people who have supported me throughout this journey. In no particular order – a huge shoutout goes to my photographer, Derek Wilson (@aymrwilson). He’s one of the most humble guys you would ever meet, and personally brings out the best characteristics during shoots. Our personalities just mesh.

Tiara LaRae (@thetiaralarae) and Diamond (@diamondsuava) were some of the first individuals that I openly shared my vision with years ago. These women are phenomenal, and gave me the blueprint I needed to really expand! Thanks for believing in me ladies.

A sincere feeling of gratitude goes to my family and friends. The ones who have known me to push the envelope and continuously strive for more. Some call me stubborn. Others call me ambitious. I’ve even been deemed “hard-headed.” But, the one thing no one can take from me is this conviction.

Last but not least, I want to say thanks to Chris Simon (@braveaux_) for even considering me as a viable person to share my story on this platform. He’s been a genuine guy since I met him and I wanted to acknowledge that.

There’s one more person I’d like to thank who has supported me tremendously throughout my brand expansion. Shenavia Payton – a true friend/sister/business partner who has invested valuable time and capital behind certain ideas. It’s her faith and constant pouring of positivity that allows me to flow creatively, even when I feel exhausted.

Website: https://www.intellectconnect.co/

Instagram: @theintellectconnect

Image Credits
Photographer: Derek Wilson Instagram: (@aymrwilson)