We were lucky to catch up with 3 Snapz recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, 3 Snapz thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

I’ve been fortunate to be a full-time DJ for the past four years. When I first started DJing in 2013, I took every opportunity that came my way—even unpaid gigs—simply because I loved bringing joy to people through music. That passion naturally led to more opportunities, a growing clientele, and increasing recognition, which helped me build my career.

Looking back, I realized my time as an educator was coming to an end when juggling DJing alongside my full-time job became almost impossible. I was pouring so much of my creativity into teaching that I had little left for myself. And while I loved my students dearly, after six years, I knew it was time to pivot. In 2018, I left education to pursue a job that would give me more flexibility to focus on DJing. But after just eight months, I was laid off due to budget cuts. That moment forced me to step out on faith and fully commit to my craft—and I haven’t looked back since. I even made it through the challenges of COVID, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason. Looking back, I don’t think I could have become an entrepreneur any faster because I needed every step of that journey to prepare me. I put in the work daily—building my resume, practicing, giving my all to every set, and having unwavering faith that I could be a full-time DJ. Because of that dedication, I kept meeting the right people, doors kept opening, and my career continued to grow.

3 Snapz, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an international DJ, entrepreneur, producer, and inspirationalist—a term I coined to describe how I inspire through everything I do. Music has always been a part of my life, so stepping into DJing felt natural. Whether I’m on stage, producing music, or having a conversation, my goal is to help people curate the soundtrack to their lives—creating moments they’ll want to relive and share, like the lyrics to a song that stays with them. It’s poetry in motion. And because I bring authenticity and genuine energy to every experience, it makes the connection that much stronger—people feel it, and they remember it.

I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come. My 13-year-old self would be in awe because I’ve always dreamed big and believed in creating something positive. I’m living proof that you can do anything you set your mind to—you just have to put in the work, believe, and have faith. I’m also proud that I never stop learning and evolving. There’s so much more I want to accomplish, and every day, I’m working toward those goals. I love meeting new people and gaining new opportunities to showcase not only my talent but also the beauty of true creativity. There’s something powerful in that. Life is a beautiful journey, and I’m embracing every step of it.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to bring positive energy into the world while living a peaceful life. Creating gives me peace, and pouring into others feeds my soul. My goal is to actively use my talents while continuously learning, creating, and growing as an individual. I want to travel, connect with new people, and deepen my craft through those experiences. That passion drives me forward and reminds me to never give up on my creative journey.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

I’m a huge fan of self-help books, and some of my favorites have had a profound impact on my mindset and approach to life.

The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success teaches that everything we desire can be created because the same natural laws that shape the universe—forests, stars, even the human body—can also bring our deepest dreams to life.

The Power of Now emphasizes that the present moment is all we truly have. It highlights how the past, which shapes our identity, and the future, which holds our hopes, are both illusions created in the present.

The Alchemist reinforces the importance of following one’s personal legend—the unique path and dreams meant for each of us.

Currently, I’m reading The Artist’s Way, a book that helps artists and creatives reconnect with their craft and overcome creative blocks.

These books have shaped how I navigate challenges, pursue my goals, manage stress, and experience overall well-being. They help me maintain a strong, positive mindset, which is essential in both my creative and personal journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.3snapz.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreanajohnson
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dreanajohnson
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dreanajohnson/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/3snapz
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/3snapz