Story & Lesson Highlights with z dffff

We’re looking forward to introducing you to z dffff. Check out our conversation below.

z, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day starts with fighting through chronic illness and logging into my corporate job. When that day ends, I clock out of one world and into another, the one I actually built for myself. Even when I’m exhausted, pouring candles is where I feel alive. It’s therapy, it’s art, it’s mine. I make candles the way bakers bake, from the heart. Every scent starts with intention. I like to think that the love I pour in ends up offering warmth to someone who needs it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Zo, the founder of Obsidian Bleu, a home and personal care brand that’s all about experience and emotion. What makes us different is the culture behind it. It’s not just about lighting a candle; it’s about lighting a memory. It’s that rugged adventurer you met out of town, the beautiful stranger from the plane, or the smell of your favorite childhood cereal, but with a French twist. I started Obsidian Bleu during a time of severe depression. I found peace in pouring products and realized that every candle could carry a little healing with it.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
My dad, he was an amazing person. He taught me that nothing will ever be handed to you, and consistency beats talent every time. That lesson shows up in everything I do, both in my corporate life and in building Obsidian Bleu from scratch.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
When I realized people connect more to your scars than your trophies. For a long time, I tried to pretend everything was fine and the “I’m okay” act we all know too well. Once I started being honest about what I’d been through, my business and my life got a lot more real. People like people who are real. That’s when the connection became genuine.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Respect. No one is above or below anyone here. I don’t care how talented someone is, if they can’t treat people right, they don’t belong in the room. Energy matters, and I protect it like it’s currency.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Caring what people think. I’d stop giving a shit, honestly. So much of what holds us back is trying to please everyone else. I’d rather live the hell out of those ten years doing what feels true.

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