Josh Stokes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Josh, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I felt true joy was this past Sunday. I was playing the drums and singing at my Fathers church then I went home to spend time and have dinner with me family.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Josh Stokes. I am an Artist/Musician/Creative Director. What makes me interesting, special, unique is that I am me. I am truly proud of that, and I don’t wish to be in anyone else’s shoes. I love myself and I want to spread that to the world so we all can be proud, throw away peoples ideas of us, and fully embrace who we are as individuals. That is the true power.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents taught me about work. They were/are extremely hard workers and exhibited excellence every time they clocked in. They were punctual, professional, and efficient. They were team players, collaborators, and made every situation better that they stepped into. They taught me hard work, and consistency at a young age.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me we’re more alike than we are different, no matter our social status. It also taught me we all need time to regroup, and get things back on track. That passion, that new idea, that new vision, will come and you’ll be back to yourself, stronger than before.. We all go through, and we’re never alone!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie my industry tells itself is that everything is about being young and hot. This thinking has destroyed so many peoples self esteem in never feeling good enough and ultimately quitting. The young hot people who the industry embraces tries its hardest to take advantage of them (royalties, merch, name and likeness) because they think they’re young ignorant and easy to take advantage of. Fortunately in the past few years we’ve been a bit more informed but many people will still sacrifice themselves for brief fame and show money.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes, I’ve gotten what I wanted and it didn’t satisfy me. I’ve gotten thousands of views, streams, interviews, bought shoes/clothes that I wanted so bad, and when I get it it’s like “oh ok, I have new shoes now. I just did this cool interview” but it’s never like “wow! I live on the moon now”. I’ve always had such high expectations, and held things concerning work at such high regard. I know now all of those things are an inside feeling, and I must always be satisfied with myself no matter what. Things don’t make you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://joshstokes.bandcamp.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshstokespma/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoshStokesPma
Image Credits
Keith Robinson
Cary Evan
