We had the good fortune of connecting with Jay Snipes and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jay, what do you want your legacy to be?
I actually pose this same question in my book, Generation Motivation: Minutes of Motivation. I think the incomparable Jackie Robinson said it best, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” That quote really resonated with me. This is why I have chosen to be an author and journalist. I know my time on earth is meant to have purpose and to be impactful, regardless of if it is on a grand or small scale. I want my legacy to be that of someone that knows everyone has purpose in life and wants to help others realize and fulfill their purpose. Being a husband and father of two, I do not take this responsibility lightly. I have to set the bar for my children and instill the importance of how every decision and action they make is another strand in their legacy’s DNA. Whether by intention or default, the life you lead will ultimately be your legacy.
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.
My latest book, Generation Motivation: Minutes of Motivation, is probably one of my proudest accomplishments. I’ve interviewed a lot of celebrities and athletes throughout my years of journalism, and while exciting, I’ve never felt as inspired as I do in this moment in time. As the title alludes to, this is a motivational book and was written during the summer of 2020, in the midst of the world being more disconnected than it has ever been in modern history. We’ve all endured so much over the past year, personally, collectively and globally with COVID, mass shootings, personal losses, the elections, layoffs, evictions and that’s on top of everyday life. It compelled me to start writing this book to let people know to not give up hope and to learn to “be hope” for others. In order to be able to do so effectively, we must first work on becoming the best versions of ourselves and that is this book’s purpose.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
That is a tough question for me because I am more of a homebody. However, the sports enthusiast in me would definitely take them to a Hawks or Falcons game, depending upon the season. The music enthusiast in me would take them to The Velvet Note where they can hear some great live jazz or Two Urban Licks for great food and live music. The historical enthusiast in me would take them to The King Center, which is one of many great landmarks for a city that is so rich with diverse cultures.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my wife, Teresa and children, Robert and Saniyah. They have played a major role in shaping me into the person I am today. Being a husband and father helped me to understand the true meaning of selflessness. Knowing that every decision I make impacts them, whether directly or indirectly, inspires me to strive to have an impactful and meaningful life. Their love and encouragement fuel my drive.
Website: www.GenerationMotivation.com
Instagram: @nicewiththatpen
Other: Clubhouse: @nicewiththatpen