We were lucky to catch up with Jerome Barkley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jerome, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
It’s a constant challenge being the only one in the room who looks like me. At first i assumed no one would get me nor understand my story and how that is an extension of my work, so i wouldn’t share a lot at first. Later on i would soon come to realize that the reason i am in certain rooms is because i come with a different perspective, background and experiences, which allowed to embrace being the one in the room who looks likes me. I lean on letting the work speak for itself while watching the reactions give me solitude that what i’m doing is effective.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I have my hands in different things but, first, i’m a podcaster, second i’m the founder of The Columbus Podcast Awards & the newest entity i’m apart of is being the videographer & editor for A&R Studio Productions. My passion for interviewing and connecting with others in the podcast space eventually lead me to founding the Columbus Podcast Awards. Being that i shoot and edit my podcast, my business partner Awia had an idea to start a video production company where i do the producing, shooting and editing of the videos. Honestly, it feels very rewarding to be able to have a annual event where we award and celebrate the podcast scene here in Columbus Ohio, it’s so creative and diverse and i’m glad to be apart it. With A&R Studios i really get to push my creativity coming up with concepts for our clients whether it’s documentaries, promo videos ect.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Being Driven, Being Curious & Being Disciplined have been the main qualities that have been crucial in the impact of my journey. What i would tell someone early on in their journey is first, spend time exploring all your interest, don’t limit the possibilities. As you explore all your interest you’ll slowly find what you’re passionate about and if you apply being driven, having a constant curiosity and discipline, it is a sure recipe for success and improvement!
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My mom always supported anything i wanted to do, she always encourages me says she’s proud of me. Having that positive reinforcement from my mom gave me extra drive to continue on. My dad has passed on now, but i remember the last conversation i had with him and he told me to enjoy life. I used to be very uptight and serious about life so now i take time to make sure i’m enjoying the work and spaces i’m in which has made things very enjoyable for me. These two components from my parents are so impactful and more valuable than anything they brought for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://columbuspodcastawards.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/columbuspodawards614/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clothtalkpodcast
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromebarkleyjr/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/bbbbbzzzzbb?app=desktop
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083578200174
Image Credits
Awia Manns
