Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Sean McElwee of Orange County

We recently had the chance to connect with Sean McElwee and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sean, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I snorkeled without a boogie board in the Bahamas. It was the first time I could do it in deep water without holding onto a float. I’m very proud of overcoming that fear and I saw a sea turtle too!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a T-Shirt designer and have designed over 160 different ones. I like to make people laugh and think.
I was on the TV show Born this Way for all 4 Seasons and it won 4 Emmys. I loved being on Born this Way because it was showing the world that people with Down syndrome have hopes, dreams, and can do more than people think we can. I also work at a golf course and love my job and I get to play golf free too!

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My Mom. She always believed in me and made sure I had every opportunity to live my dreams and she still does.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Nope
Actually my keynote speech is all about how I never give up on my dreams

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely
In all real. No fakes at all.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I said I was a ladies man on Born this Way but what I meant is I like girls. Some guys like guys but I like girls. But people thought I meant I was a player and that isn’t true at all. I always have one girlfriend at a time.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Photos by Sandra McElwee

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