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Life & Work with Kim E. Jones of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim E. Jones.

Hi Kim E., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a New Orleans native, author, community builder, and proud mother whose work has always centered around people, connection, and belonging.

In 2020, alongside my friends Tammy Collor and Niatra Bell, I co-founded Don’t Count Yourself Out (DCYO), an online community built on encouragement, inclusion, and belonging. What started as a simple Facebook group has grown into a diverse space where people from all walks of life can connect, support one another, and know they have a place where they belong.

Today, I balance my career in the energy industry with writing, speaking, and community leadership. Whether through my work, my books, or the organizations I serve, I am passionate about encouraging others and helping them recognize their value and potential.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road.

There have been seasons in my life where I felt like I was carrying a lot all at once. Grief, motherhood, career responsibilities, community leadership, and the expectations I placed on myself. I’ve always been the person who shows up for others, and for a long time I believed that being strong meant handling everything on my own.

One of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is that you can be there for people without losing yourself in the process. Learning how to set boundaries, navigate relationship changes, and prioritize my own well-being wasn’t easy, especially when so much of my identity was tied to helping and supporting others.

I’ve experienced loss, disappointment, and seasons where I questioned myself and the path I was on. But those experiences taught me resilience, strengthened my faith, and reminded me that growth often happens in the moments we would rather avoid. Looking back, I can see how those challenges shaped not only who I am, but also how I relate to others.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an author, I write about topics that many of us wrestle with but don’t always talk about openly, including identity, healing, relationships, boundaries, and personal growth.

My writing journey began as a contributing writer in the anthology Surviving the Stretch: Hope Unites, compiled by Letisha Russell. From there, I went on to publish my devotional You Are Enough and most recently The Loyalty Trap.

What I am most proud of is having the opportunity to share my story with the world. Writing allows me to take what is in my head and heart and put it on paper in a way that may help someone else. I also see my books as part of the legacy I leave behind for my son and future generations.

One of the things I love most about writing is that it allows me to be a part of someone’s life, even if we never meet. Through my books, I can help spark conversations, offer perspective, and remind readers they are not alone in what they are facing.

What sets me apart is that I don’t see a book as the finish line. For me, the book is the beginning. My hope is that the message continues long after the final page is turned.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is making a meaningful impact while I’m here.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that life is about so much more than accomplishments, titles, or recognition. What stays with me are the relationships I’ve built, the conversations I’ve had, and the opportunities I’ve been given to encourage others along the way.

One of the things I’m most proud of is being a mother. Watching my son, London grow into the young man he is becoming has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. It has taught me the importance of being present and pouring into others.

I feel most fulfilled when I’m connecting with others. Whether it’s speaking to students, leading a discussion, or simply listening to someone’s story, those are the moments that stay with me.

At the end of the day, I want people to know that they mattered and that somebody cared about them. I want to know that I used my gifts, stayed true to who I am, and left a positive mark on the lives of others.

Contact Info:

Woman signing books at a table with promotional materials and small signs, in a room with pink walls.

Woman with braided hair wearing a red T-shirt, sitting at a table with graffiti-covered wall behind her.

Book titled 'The Loyalty Trap' with a group of women on the cover, surrounded by gold and silver wrapping paper.

Two people smiling, holding books, standing in front of a promotional banner and balloons, indoors. One person wears a white shirt, the other a light-colored dress.

Two women seated in a colorful room with pink walls, large window, and shelves, engaging with an audience. One woman holds a phone.

Woman sitting on stairs reading a book titled 'Loyalty Trap' outdoors.

Two women sit in a colorful room with a TV, books, and promotional banners, engaging in conversation.

Group of women standing together indoors, some holding gift bags, in front of a red wall with framed pictures.

Smiling woman with curly hair wearing an orange hoodie outdoors, sunlight and trees in background.

Woman in purple dress holding a book, standing behind a table with books and gift bags, smiling indoors.

Woman standing outdoors on grass, wearing an orange sweatshirt with a colorful design, black pants, and black shoes.

Book cover with a cracked glass of whiskey and lightning, titled

Woman standing and speaking to a group of children seated at a round table in a conference room, with a presentation screen behind her.

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