Meet John Gotty

Today we’d like to introduce you to John Gotty.

Thanks for sharing your story with us John. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve been working online since the early 2000s, first in sneakers before switching over to writing about music on the now-defunct blog The Smoking Section (TSS). What started on a whim based on my love for music and writing evolved into a place that received a few million visitors monthly. After that ran its course, I moved back to my other love, sneakers, and that’s where I do most of my work now between freelance writing, social media marketing, consulting and everything in between. And some of my old staff and I still do some publishing via our site StillCrew.com.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The adage about doing what you love and not working another day in your life… yeah, that’s not completely accurate lol. If anything, you were much harder because you’re deeply invested in the work you’re doing. There are tons of hurdles and learning curves to navigate. Over the years, I’ve learned how to manage a staff of writers, do photography, write copy – which takes a different set of muscles than other forms of writing. And an endless list of skills I had to acquire to adapt to the constant changes around me. The biggest thing is working on things you love come with intrinsic rewards that mean the world to you.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
Currently, I create social media content and branded campaigns with footwear companies and retailers. We try to bring a level of storytelling and speak to people organically in ways that brands can’t. I’ve been working with the same photographer for years and we’ve managed to build a strong portfolio of work. We move like a small agency. What it means is companies come to us and allow us the freedom to create without seeking their approval or permission. It took almost 15 years of proving myself to gain that sort of support. I work hard to maintain it by continuing to deliver quality on a consistent basis.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve surrounded myself with a huge support system over the years. It largely comes from me extending myself to others and helping as many people as I can in any way I can. Beyond that, my wife, kids, and family as a whole. They keep me grounded and focused. They’re also a refuge, which is key when you work in a non-traditional setting. Sometimes the mind gets stuck in work mode nearly 24/7. Spending time focus on my family, like when they have sports and social activities going on, forces me to leave work behind for a few hours. That’s key to maintaining my sanity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.johngotty.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johngotty/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johngotty17/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/JohnGotty
• Other: https://stillcrew.com/

Image Credit:
All images by Cakemaster (https://www.instagram.com/cakemaster/)

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