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

Hi Jeffy, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I think constantly being told to “invest our time wisely” growing up gave people this weird work horse complex and it geared our focus strictly towards professional goals. It sold us this dream that success in the workplace is the only way to see a happy and full life. Which just isn’t true. Hardwork, realism, sacrifice, thick skin, gameplans, sleepless nights and a genuine love for what you do are all key elements to running a successful business… but that can also be said about “successfully” raising a family, or “successfully” taking that dream vacation. There comes a point in every professional’s life where they have to find their balance between work and their personal needs for the sake of their own sanity. After a decade of running my own business and making hundreds of succesful business moves, I feel like I’m finally finding my balance between the two worlds. Especially after all the chaos we’ve seen in 2020 with the Covid-19 pandemic. This was the perfect example of how precious life can be and why it’s important to actually…. I don’t know… live a little. Spend time with your loved ones, dive into your romantic side, learn a new language, maintain your health (both mentally and physically), get enough sleep, make time for your areas of interest, and just appreciate all the gems around you. Balance is a vital part of living a healthy life and you deserve to experience whatever it is that makes your heart full. 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Gutted Cigar is Ventura County’s premier event production company with over 10 years of experience in live events. Offering a wide range of services throughout the greater Southern California area, as well as being heavily involved in community efforts, TGC has built an extensive resume and reputation in the creative arts world.

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.
For all your art & entertainment needs in the 805, check out the Lab 805 creative studio in Saticoy, CA then head around the corner for some drinks at the The Happy Place

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?
All praise to my team at The Gutted Cigar, Ire Apparel, Altered State Refinery, LAFMob, Da Money Tree, Mark 4ord, Airyn From the Shows, Pitta Jane, Everything Kassie, Science Green and the entire creative arts community throughout Southern California for giving Hip Hop a home.

Website: www.ireapparel.com
Instagram: @jeffyobvious
Twitter: @jeffyobvious
Facebook: @jeffyobvious
Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB5uUEB-tkpPiQjSQLIL9_Q
Other: IG:@TheGuttedCigar

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.