We had the good fortune of connecting with Obio Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Obio, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Authenticity. I literally cannot do what I do if I’m not being my authentic self. And that’s authentic about each part of the journey, the unknown, the confusion, the joy, the discomfort, all of it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a LGBTQ advocate that creates content that affirms my community. I launched my YouTube series, “Its Just Not Adding Up” in the beginning of 2021 and its been a ride ever since. It wasn’t my intention to create a brand as much as I just wanted people to feel seen and know that they aren’t alone. There’s definitely been some challenges. Getting used to hateful people and growing my confidence to where it needs to be to continue to be vulnerable on camera isn’t an easy task, but its so worth it. I want the world to know that as a gay man, I’m not hiding or being silent about who I am and I’m rooting for everyone else to feel the same way. Especially with this being Pride month, standing strong in who you are is so important!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’re going to Vickery’s to get that salmon then Jeni’s ice cream. We’re going to Piedmont park and going to make our rounds from there; the Blakes, Mixx, 10th and P or it all.
We’re definitely walking the Beltline multiple times and I’m sure there’s a Fest going on like there usually is.
The beauty of Atlanta is the spontaneous energy each day brings so plan or no plan, you can get out the house and have a good time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the entire LGBTQ community. I’m often told that I’ve affected the men, women, and non-binary people that watch my content in a major way but the feeling is definitely mutual.

Website: www.obioojones.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/obioojones

Twitter: www.twitter.com/obioojones

Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/ObioJones

Image Credits
Livelle Mobley Travis Geter

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