We were lucky to catch up with Alexandria Grimes recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alexandria , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome was one of the hardest battles I’ve faced as an artist. For years, I questioned my worth and doubted my abilities, feeling like I didn’t deserve the opportunities that came my way. But deep down, I knew the calling on my life was undeniable. Accepting my responsibility as an artist and owning the path God granted me required surrender—a choice to stop resisting my destiny and trust the process. Once I let go of fear and allowed life to flow naturally, alignment began to happen effortlessly. Doors opened, my creativity flourished, and I stepped into a space where I could walk confidently in my purpose, knowing that this journey was designed specifically for me.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As The Thrift Jesus, I specialize in curating unique, authentic vintage clothing and accessories from around the world to help clients revamp their wardrobes and express their truest selves. What excites me most about my work is how every piece I source carries a story, and I get to help weave those stories into someone else’s journey of self-expression. My brand is more than just fashion; it’s a celebration of individuality and creativity, rooted in my passion for connecting people with timeless pieces that resonate on a personal level.
In addition to my work with The Thrift Jesus, I’m also part of The Pulpit ATL, a creative collective dedicated to uplifting and empowering emerging artists and the youth. Through resources, workshops, and events, we provide the tools and community support necessary for artists to thrive. Whether it’s offering guidance or creating spaces for self-expression, The Pulpit ATL is about building bridges and ensuring that creative voices are nurtured and heard. Together, these ventures reflect my commitment to art, authenticity, and fostering a legacy of inspiration.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are time management, resourcefulness, and communication.
Time management has been crucial, and one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the clock stops for no one. The movie In Time really resonated with me—it’s a sharp reflection of how society often fails to value time the way we should. We waste it on things that don’t serve our purpose, forgetting how precious and limited it truly is. Early on, I had to discipline myself to prioritize my goals and stop procrastinating because I realized every moment counts. For those starting out, my advice is to treat time as your greatest asset. Plan, set clear goals, and take consistent action every day.
Resourcefulness is another skill that shaped my journey. Growing up, I often had to turn nothing into something—whether it was making the best of limited opportunities or finding creative ways to solve problems. This not only helped me build resilience but also allowed my creativity to flourish. I found value in things others might overlook, and it taught me how to see potential where others might not. To develop this skill, challenge yourself to think outside the box and focus on what you can do with what you already have.
Lastly, communication has been a game-changer. Learning how to identify my target audience and connect with people from all walks of life helped me find my place and succeed in my endeavors. Whether it’s pitching an idea, networking, or sharing my story, effective communication builds trust and opens doors. For those just starting, take time to learn your audience and practice clear, authentic communication. It’s not just about what you say, but how you make others feel.
Mastering these skills has been a journey, but they’ve each contributed to my growth in unique and impactful ways.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was expose me to a world far beyond the limitations of our small hometown of Gary, Indiana. Gary is a city full of hardworking, solid people who focus on the necessities of life, but dreaming big or reaching for the stars wasn’t often part of the narrative—until the Jackson family changed everything. Michael Jackson and his family raised the bar, proving that greatness could come from Gary, and that planted a seed of possibility.
My parents nurtured that seed by moving us out of Gary at a young age, determined to show us there was more to life than what we had known. They introduced us to a variety of music, foods, and cultures, expanding our worldviews in ways that were invaluable. Even when times were incredibly hard and we had to move frequently, they encouraged us to express ourselves creatively through art, music, and humor. They made us feel safe and supported, no matter where we landed, ensuring that we always flourished despite the challenges.
Their unwavering love and belief in us allowed me to dream beyond my circumstances. They taught me that creativity is a tool for survival and that it’s possible to build something beautiful, even when the odds are stacked against you. My parents’ sacrifices and vision shaped the person I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thethriftjesus.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/thethriftjesus
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethriftjesus
Image Credits
Kevin Brown Branden Adams Eric Jordan Blake Ballard Inari Briana Neely Townes Zachary Jefferson TwoFourShotIt
