Get To Know Jamir Smith from “The Jamir Smith Show” Podcast
Born and raised in Durham NC as an only child, my parents wanted me to hold on to the roots of my grandparents James and Mary and named me Jamir
Born and raised in Durham NC as an only child, my parents wanted me to hold on to the roots of my grandparents James and Mary and named me Jamir Smith. As an only child to middle class parents, he learned the idea of being creative at a very young age. He would buy magazines like Vogue, Men’s Journal and Right On while emerging myself in the fashion tales of the pages. Having experience in the luxury fashion and design industry for over 15 years helped him build strong relationships in the process. “The Jamir Smith Show Podcast” which is heard on 10 streaming platforms. The weekly show provides and outlook on lifestyle, fashion and interviews from entrepreneurs who are making their footprints in the industry. He has many inspirations which include attending museums while being emerged in the creative visions of artist, in addition to watching ballets, operas, and learning French culture. He had the opportunity to live and work in many different cities such as New York City, Washington DC, Orlando FL, and currently Atlanta GA. Something many people may not know about me is he really enjoys collecting art. Basquiat, Jacob Lawrence, Andy Warhol, Gordan Parks and Nelson Makamo are just a few of his favorite artist. Fashion will always be at the forefront of my life and I have gained much respect for designers such as Balmain (Oliver Rousteing), Karl Lagerfield, Alexander McQueen, Donnatella/ Gianni Versace. One of the most inspirational interviews he has done was with The Turkish Coalition of America and speaking with James Baldwin sister out of law Carole Weinstein.
We had the opportunity to catch up with Jamir Smith, here’s our interview:
What’s the biggest challenge you have with your specific role right now and how are you going to overcome it?
I am the host of The JamirSmithShow Podcast in its 3rd season which has become challenging with the amount of guests wanting to be a part of the platform. I hired an amazing Brand Manager that helps me define the vision and aligns me with purpose. But it has been a great experience!
What’s the biggest surprise you’ve had in the last few months and why?
The Biggest surprise has definitely been the pandemic! Adjusting to a new normal, building a brand while trying to stay normal in the process. I am like the rest of the world trying to figure things out but stay extremely creative in the process.
If you had an extra $10,000 of budget…how would you spend it and why?
I would invest a percent of the money in stocks, donate some to The National Black Arts Festival and put the rest in building my brand.
How do you continue to learn in order to stay on top of things within your role?
I continue to align myself with the right people. YouTube has become my best-friend with learning new technology programs, listening to new artists, and of course all social media platforms have really kept me on top of things.
What’s something people seem to misunderstand about you?
I am a very kind and giving person, however I always have a “Serious/ About Business” look” Lol.
What makes you feel inspired or like your best self?
Art! & FASHION! I am super inspired by creative artists like Nelson Makamo, James Baldwin, Basquiat, Oliver Rousteing, and Kim Jones.
If you could have a billboard with anything on it, what would it be and why?
My billboard would read “Stay Creative!!! And check out The JamirSmithShow Podcast!
If you could turn back the time and talk to your 18-year-old self, what would you tell him/her?
Stay focused, travel and be intentional!
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your life? What was your life like before learning it? What was your life like after learning it?
My parents have always had a quote.. “Just Keep Living”… and I have to say that’s the most important thing I am learning is to keep living, learning and experiencing life. My life before learning it was free and at times without purpose. As I’m still learning how to live in full love of self, and create a legacy I appreciate those words even more.
What is your best tip for making the world a better place?
Continue to live your life with intention, love yourself and respect others.
What’s next for you?
The Jamir Smith Show Podcast is in its 3 season and I am excited to continue collaborating with creatives, merchandise in Fall 2021, and sponsorships.
Listen to “The Jamir Smith Show” Podcast here: