Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Jarod O’Brian of Atlanta

Jarod O’Brian shared his story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Jarod, 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’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Wow! First, I want to acknowledge that this is a phenomenal question. No one has ever asked me this before. From the three options, energy is by far the most important to me. Energy is real. I can feel it, detect it, dissect it, and depending on the circumstances, choose to embrace it. Energy is an element that cannot lie. And, the most beautiful thing is that energy never dies. It can only be transferred from one source to the next.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Of course. I’m Jarod O’Brian, a brand strategist who enjoys the process of brand development. I help entrepreneurs and small business owners create go-to-market (GTM) strategies to establish themselves as key stakeholders within their respective marketplaces.

My approach is always consultative, because I want business partners to understand the importance of collaboration. When clients realize I want them to win, as much as they want to win for themselves (if not more), they become more receptive. However, I have learned throughout my journey that people’s efforts will reflect how badly they want to see a vision come to life.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’m not sure who is in charge of these questions, but I could shed a few tears reflecting on their magnitude.

Before the world smacked me around a few times, my energy was more free-flowing. I have always been ambitious, so persevering through things is hardwired in my DNA. However, I can admit that as I’ve experienced life, I have become extremely calculated in comparison to my younger self.

There was a time when I could make decisions without needing to evaluate them with a fine-tooth comb. Sometimes I really miss that innocence… that openness to explore.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me that pain is necessary for growth. Success is great to think about, but no one really wants to suffer.

If I can be even more transparent, suffering revealed me to myself. It showed me if I was willing to compromise on principles due to periods of discomfort, or stand strong in my personal beliefs.

I am always reminded that nothing lasts forever, so with that being said, suffering is also temporary, no matter how long the stint.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I will be selective with my words because I do not want to speak prematurely. With that said, I am partnering with Brendon A. Waters, a friend who has become family, to build a legacy that outlives us both. Viewers can see more photos of him and his latest book release (Bait to Plate) throughout this article.

As the years have passed, he has become like a brother to me. He is a generational talent, musical genius, and the ultimate creative. Together, we bring a multitude of accolades and experiences to the table when it comes to building our vision. I’ll say this… when the world finally catches on, we will be in higher rooms!

House of Nuwara is well on its way! Stay tuned!

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
Crazy enough, I’ve thought about this multiple times. I’d want people to know that my encounters were genuinely authentic… no sugarcoating, no fluff, no soliciting for attention. I truly want people to know my character was as pure as it could be.

When I am no longer here, I hope that my tribe and those I impacted understand my heart. I need the ones who represent me to know my intentions were to see us all win. At times, my delivery may not have been the best. My efforts may not have been interpreted as I intended for them to be received in the moment.

The one thing I’m willing to bet on is that, regardless of who I’ve interacted with, whether in a professional or personal setting, they would attest that it was real.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jarodobrian.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jarod_obrian/

Image Credits
Desiree Navarro