We had the good fortune of connecting with Otis Wellborn Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Otis, how do you think about risk?
While many may see me as a risk-taker, I view my decisions as steps of faith. In 2006, I began my career in law enforcement, starting as a Correctional Officer working with serious offenders. By 2007, I transitioned to patrolling the streets of Cincinnati as a Police Officer. In 2015, I made history as the first African-American Police Officer hired in 200 years at a small department in Monroe, Ohio. The following year, in 2016, I made the bold decision to leave law enforcement, where I had dedicated much of my life, to pursue a full-time career in real estate. Many friends and family thought I was crazy to walk away from a steady paycheck for a commission-based career. However, despite their concerns, my first year in real estate was a huge success. My success fueled another leap of faith in 2020 when I relocated to Farmington Hills, Michigan, to take on a leadership role as CEO of a real estate brokerage. Then, in 2021, I returned to Ohio as the first real estate agent in Cincinnati with Real Brokerage Technologies, expanding a virtual real estate team across 10 markets nationwide.

In 2024, I made another significant life change by relocating to Houston, Texas, to marry my wife, Eryka, leaving behind my real estate business and clientele in Ohio to essentially start over. Now, I am a full-time motivational speaker, dedicated to inspiring and developing leaders across the globe. Looking back, I realize that without these leaps of faith, I might have lived a life full of regret. I’ve never been afraid to take risks for success, and I’m grateful for every one of those steps.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m excited to embark on this new journey as a motivational speaker. It allows me to not only use my gift of communication but also to fulfill my calling to serve others. The road hasn’t been easy, though. The pain I’ve experienced over the years has fueled my desire to speak and empower others. One of the hardest challenges I’ve faced has been the struggle of not being able to see one of my children and dealing with injustices in the family court system. Despite my business success, navigating life’s personal challenges has been tough.

These trials led me to Christian-based men’s groups, where I strengthened my spiritual journey and gained a fresh perspective on life. These experiences are why I’m passionate about speaking to men globally on overcoming life’s obstacles. The challenges I’ve endured have shaped me, giving me the tools to help other men along their own journeys. When I speak, my words come from a place of authenticity and empathy, because I’ve lived through difficult situations and know how hard it can be.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is the significance of making sound decisions, as they can have lasting positive or negative impacts. My brand, The Wellborn Experience, is built on my name and my life’s journey. I want it to be known globally for creating a meaningful impact in communities. Through my new initiative, the Talent and Ties Teaching Program, I aim to make a difference by teaching students how to identify their natural talents, gain entrepreneurial skills, and develop life skills that will help them succeed. Students will learn entrepreneurial principles from my book, How to Make Six Figures Selling Real Estate as a Realtor, and acquire essential life skills, like tying a necktie, preparing them for success both in life and business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If a friend were visiting Houston, I’d start by taking them downtown to check out the incredible murals painted on the sides of buildings. Then, we’d catch a Houston Rockets game and grab a meal at Guard and Grace, where the food is fantastic and the portions are generous. I’d also take them to a concert at the 713 Music Hall—a smaller venue with an intimate vibe and an excellent sound system. Before they leave, we’d unwind with a spa day at Trellis Spa, followed by brunch at either Common Bond or Black Walnut Café in The Woodlands.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am deeply grateful to God for providing me with the courage, inspiration, and guidance that have steered me over the past 20 years. I also want to thank my parents for their unwavering love, support, and prayers, without which I wouldn’t have made it this far. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to my children—you are my reason to keep pushing forward, even on the toughest days. Your presence motivates me to always give my best.

Website: https://www.OtisWellbornJr.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaklife_oj/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/otis-wellborn-jr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpeakLifeOJ/

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

Image Credits
ROP Films

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