Meet Donna Jones | Producer/Talk Show Host

We had the good fortune of connecting with Donna Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Donna, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
If you truly believe in your dreams and goals, I don’t think giving up is ever an option. Being able to go through adversity and learn from it will only prepare you for actually reaching your goals. Even when it looks like it will never happen, don’t give up. So much can change in 24 hours. Know each day is another day closer to what you want to achieve. There have been days when I wanted to give up — (believe me, I did) — but then, the next day, I would just keep going with renewed commitment. As they say, “You didn’t come this far just to come this far”. It will happen if you believe it will happen!…and you put in the work!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

Being a creative is something special. Someone who has a vision and is able to make it become a reality is something special and exciting. I started my career at a local cable station producing my first talk shows which led to me receiving local awards for those shows. Back then, I wore many hats. I served as host, booked talent, and everything in between, which led to covering red carpets and interviewing celebrities. Then, I had the opportunity to take my interviews to a local network where I also provided content. It was definitely a struggle every step of the way, but I knew in my heart I wanted to be in entertainment. I loved interviewing and talking to people about their lives. Being able to get celebrities to open up within the first few minutes was something I simply loved to do. Making a guest feel comfortable and safe enough to open up and tell their stories came naturally to me — (and I also always made certain to do my research to enhance my interviews). Besides loving it, I found I was really good at it all.

There have been so many challenges that I faced when I started my brand and my company, but I have learned that you need to be clear about what you want and where you want to go in life and also be able to convey that to others as well. Knowing what you truly want will help you get there a lot faster. Don’t second guess yourself, even if others doubt you. It’s YOUR dream and vision, so don’t expect others to always get it

I am just getting started, and I’m excited about what’s ahead for my production company, AOSTL Productions. I am currently in the process of creating new shows and have partnered with Executive Producer Marla Winston of Entertainment Enterprises. I truly feel blessed to be where I am at this time, but I’m also looking forward to being able to continue building my brand.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
What I love about Los Angeles is the diversity. You can go to the mountains and to the beach all on the same day. How amazing is that?! I have been so blessed to be able to explore LA and see so many beautiful places. I think the first place I would love to take my best friend would be Malibu. Not only is it peaceful, but you can enjoy so many great places to eat like Nobu, which is definitely one of the first places we would go. I think after that, I would take her to the Griffith Observatory with its amazing views. It’s truly an inspiring place to visit. I also would love to hike Runyon Canyon and work up a sweat. Its trails and views are breathtaking. Another one of my favorite places would be Mama’s Shelter in West Hollywood for a little rooftop dancing, stunning views, as well as great food and cocktails to close the night.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When you decide to step out on faith and go after your dreams, that’s when the right people will step up to support you. There are a few people I am truly so grateful for and who I would like to acknowledge. First, my best friend, Alexis Streets. You were such an amazing support and inspiration for me. When I moved to Los Angeles from College Park, MD, I remember the day you drove me to the airport, and as I stood there scared with my eyes full of tears not knowing what the next chapter of my life would be, you told me to go take over followed by the phrase “LA, here she comes”! Those words have stayed with me, and I will always be truly grateful to you.

The second person I honestly could not have done this without is Mr. Antonio Adams. You came into my life when I needed a friend. Our paths crossed years before I moved to LA, but after I finally made the move, there you were. I remember the day we met up, and you were so surprised I had actually made the move — by myself. I remember you saying, “I got you.” …and really you did! You have been by my side through all the ups and downs. The connection we share is truly inexplicable and so beautiful. I am immensely grateful for the moments you didn’t let me give up on my dreams nor on myself. Thank you for your love and support.

Website: http://donnajoneslive.com/

Instagram: donnajoneslive

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-jones-18349363/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DROPNETWORK