We were lucky to catch up with Jamé Jackson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jamé , first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Navigating imposter syndrome has been a richly rewarding challenge, especially as a Black actor. The entertainment industry doesn’t always make room easily for us, and it often felt like every audition was more about proving my basic right to be there than showcasing my talent. Initially, I questioned whether I had what it took. But it didn’t take long to see that if I didn’t believe in my own story and capabilities, no one else would. So, I stopped waiting for external validation and started owning my space with the conviction that I belonged there just as much as anyone else.
In the entrepreneurial world, when I launched TheBlondeMisfit and later Misfit Creative Media, there were plenty of naysayers. I heard it all: “It’s too competitive,” “You won’t make it in such an oversaturated market.” But listening to that noise wasn’t an option. Instead, I focused on what setting myself apart would look like. I pushed past those doubts and not only did I establish a successful niche, but I also racked up some enviable accolades—Top 100 fashion sites in the world, Top 100 beauty sites in the world, and Top 25 NYC-based beauty blogs. Let’s just say, the results spoke for themselves. Proving those doubters wrong was satisfying, but more importantly, I proved to myself what I’m capable of achieving when I trust in my vision and hustle hard.
This journey has been about more than just overcoming doubts; it’s been underpinned by my faith. Reminding myself of who God calls me to be has been essential. It’s easy to falter when you’re looking at your own reflection, but when you see yourself as an instrument of a greater purpose, that’s where the real magic happens. This mindset has not just propelled me through challenges but has also allowed me to lift others as I climb. With God by my side, I don’t just aim to succeed—I aim to redefine success. And believe me, when you move with that kind of conviction, it’s not just about winning. It’s about leading the way.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As an actor, media personality, and founder, my journey has been intensely personal and driven by a deep-seated passion for storytelling and change. Building brands like TheBlondeMisfit, the podcast, and now Misfit Creative Media has been a labor of love—each venture infused with my own blood, sweat, and tears. These aren’t just businesses; they’re expressions of my vision for a more inclusive and representative media landscape.
What’s truly exciting about this work is the message it sends—that impact doesn’t require millions of dollars or followers. It’s about passion, perseverance, and the power of a voice that refuses to be silenced. At Misfit Creative Media, we’re showing others in the industry, especially those from underrepresented communities, that their stories matter and that they too can be catalysts for change in their fields.
This ethos is not just theoretical; it’s practical. Through our platforms, we provide tools, resources, and opportunities for creatives of color to craft their narratives and excel both in front of and behind the camera. We’re building a community where emerging talents find not just a voice, but a launching pad for their careers.
On a personal note, the end of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike has reignited opportunities in both film/television and theater for me. While I can’t divulge specifics just yet, I’m thrilled about the upcoming auditions and projects that are in the pipeline. These opportunities are not only a testament to my growth as an artist but also a chance to bring more diverse stories to the stage and screen. Stay tuned for some exciting announcements in the near future!
This journey—every step and misstep—has been about forging a path that others can follow. It’s about proving that with determination and community support, creating meaningful change is not just possible, but inevitable.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three key qualities have profoundly shaped my path: staying in my lane, tenacity, and discipline. Early on, I learned the importance of focusing on my own lane. In industries like media and entertainment, distractions will get you so far off track. It’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing—whether they’re succeeding or failing—and lose sight of your own objectives. I know a lot of people who get stuck scrolling down social media feeds all day, complaining that someone has some opportunity or that they’re made something didn’t happen for them. A lot of people don’t realize that what’s for you is for you, but you gotta get up and work for it. To anyone starting out, my advice is to define your goals clearly and revisit them often. Keep your eyes fixed on your path, use blinders if you must, and don’t measure your progress against others. Your journey is unique, and your focus should be on crafting and following your personal roadmap.
Being tenacious isn’t just about persistence, but it’s about being bold enough to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. The media landscape, especially, respects those who can stand firm in their convictions and present fresh, bold ideas. For those just beginning, cultivate courage. Speak up, step out, and dare to do things differently. Rejection and failure are part of the process, but each no brings you closer to a yes that can change everything. Let me repeat: Rejection and failure are part of the process. Stop chasing perfection.
Discipline has been fundamental in steering my journey towards success. This quality is about more than just adhering to a schedule; it’s about maintaining consistency in your efforts, staying committed to your vision, and executing your plans with precision. I haven’t always done everything right, but I’ve woken up most days and put one foot in front of the other. For those at the beginning of their careers, it’s crucial to develop a disciplined approach to your work. Discipline will help you manage your time effectively, prioritize your tasks, and keep you focused on long-term objectives amidst daily pressures (because trust me, life will life!). You have to want it bad enough — in acting, we say to raise the stakes. So raise the stakes in your life and get to work.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One of the most significant books in my life has been the Bible. It’s more than just a religious text; to me, it’s a profound source of wisdom, inspiration, and reassurance. I view the Bible as a love letter, one that continually reminds me of who I am, the promises made to me, and what truly matters in this world. God’s word continually affirms my identity. In moments of doubt or when imposter syndrome starts creeping in, scriptures like Psalm 139 remind me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Verses like Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks of plans for ‘hope and a future,’ or Philippians 4:19, which assures that my needs will be met according to glorious riches, are not just comforting; they are empowering. They remind me that the path I walk is watched over and that my efforts are part of a larger, divinely orchestrated plan. In a world that often prioritizes wealth, fame, and personal gain, scriptures like Matthew 6:33, which urges us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, reorient my focus towards love, justice, and integrity. This perspective helps me navigate the complexities of life and work with a compass that prioritizes compassion, community, and ethical integrity over mere success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jamejackson.com
- Instagram: @TheBlondeMisfit
- Facebook: @TheBlondeMisfit
- Linkedin: Jamé Jackson
- Twitter: @TheBlondeMisfit
- Youtube: @TheBlondeMisfit
- Other: www.misfitcreativemedia.co www.theblondemisfit.com
Image Credits
Marta Skovro // Jamé Jackson
