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

Hi Aaron, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Originally it started as a side hustle because my job wasn’t paying enough. I was always into shoes, but I wasn’t quite “ambitious” enough to be a reseller. I would buy sell and trade for things I wanted but not necessarily for profit. One day my girlfriend and friend suggested to me to try out cleaning shoes, and I did. I got good at it within a few weeks and by my first 2 weeks taking orders I had made a quick maybe $1,000. The more I taught myself about cleaning and sneaker care, the more I fell in love with the whole aspect of it other than just making money. I wanted to create an experience for people. I wanted for them to see their favorite pair that they’ve had for years come back to life. I wanted to see the joy in people’s faces when they hand me a pair of all white Air Force Ones and I turn them into art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am currently in the process of becoming a Dallas Fire-Rescue EMT/Paramedic/ Firefighter. Right now I am in EMT school, so it’ll be a while before i can pat myself on the back, but progress is a slow process. I decided to pursue this career around a year ago when I decided I was moving from Chicago to Dallas. I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to be a part of something bigger than myself. I come from a strong basketball background as a player and did a couple years of coaching before leaving Chicago. I thrive in team-oriented settings. This career gives me the opportunity to support my family and serve others.

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.
I would take them to Terry Black’s in Deep Ellum for some brisket and a beef rib as soon as they land. A lot of local friends say it’s a tourist attraction, but we don’t have BBQ this good at home (Chicago still has the best food in the country though). During the week I ‘d probably treat them like a tourist because I still am myself. Most of my friends like to dress nice so I ‘d introduce them to some of the cool clothing stores I ‘ve found so far. On the weekend we’d probably do some brunch during the day and something chill like a lounge at night. Im a pretty simple person these days.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My girlfriend Adriana Keith, of Aureate Aesthetics LLC in Dallas TX was the motivation behind me starting my business, Her entrepreneur mind and business knowledge pushed me to learning much more than just cleaning, but how to cater to different needs in different demographics. I learned how to network and how to create a demand to supply a service thanks to her.

Instagram: @SolePurpose_SPR

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