We were lucky to catch up with Deon Jenkins recently and have shared our conversation below.

Deon, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

We are often advised to complete our education, pursue higher education, obtain a degree, secure a well-paying job, and pursue the American dream. I completed all of those steps, and then the recession occurred in 2009; as a result, I was laid off. I transitioned from an engineering job to juggling two jobs, one in retail and the other in security, to sustain myself. I knew there was something better out there than spending all my awake time working without advancing in life. A coworker introduced me to an opportunity that would forever change my life. I took a risk and invested money I really didn’t have at the time into the business venture. In the crack of time I had between jobs, I learned the business and was able to not only make extra money but, after several years, walk away from those jobs and work for myself.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

I’m a published author and a travel advisor. These two careers may seem different on the surface, but for me, they both center around one thing: experience.

As an author, I create character-driven stories that explore love, identity, growth, and the emotional complexities of life. My books are rooted in heart, authenticity, and real-life choices. I didn’t get into writing for applause or validation; I started because I had stories that wouldn’t leave me alone. Over time, that passion turned into published bodies of work and a growing community of readers who see themselves reflected in the pages.

As a travel advisor, I help people step outside their routines and into unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a cruise, a romantic getaway, a group trip, or a reset vacation, I curate travel experiences that remove stress and replace it with clarity and excitement. I handle the research, logistics, and fine details so my clients can focus on packing and showing up. I specialize in making travel feel accessible, intentional, and worth the investment.

The problem I solve in both spaces is overwhelm.

Clients in the travel industry face a deluge of options, conflicting information, and countless booking platforms. I simplify the process and advocate for them before, during, and after their trip.

In storytelling, I create safe spaces for readers to explore identity, relationships, and personal growth through relatable characters. Representation matters, and I’m proud to contribute to that landscape.

What sets me apart is that I don’t treat either profession like a transaction. I build relationships. My readers aren’t just buyers. They are part of a literary community. My travel clients aren’t just reservations. They are people trusting me with their time, money, and memories.

I’m most proud of building a brand that allows me to operate in both creativity and strategy. I’ve turned passion into purpose in two industries that require heart, consistency, and courage.

What I want potential clients, readers, and collaborators to know is this: I care deeply about the experience you have with me. Whether you’re turning the pages of one of my novels or boarding a flight I helped plan, I want you to feel seen, supported, and excited about what’s ahead.

At the end of the day, I help people change destinations on the page and in real life.

Have you ever had to pivot?

In 2020, like many people, I experienced an unexpected and defining pivot in both life and business. As a travel advisor specializing in cruise travel, the pandemic completely halted my niche and primary source of income. At the time, I was in the process of earning my ACC (Accredited Cruise Counselor) certification through CLIA, and I had multiple group sailings on the books. Almost overnight, everything paused.

The travel industry was one of the hardest hit. Many advisors left the business. Vendors closed their doors. Income streams disappeared. It would have been easy to walk away. Instead, I chose to adapt.

Rather than focusing on what was no longer possible, I shifted my attention to what could be rebuilt. During the shutdown, I invested in education. I expanded my knowledge beyond cruising and studied other sectors of travel. I used that time to strengthen my foundation as an advisor instead of waiting for things to return to normal.

When travel began reopening in phases, I pivoted into domestic travel. Road trips, U.S. destinations, and small-group getaways. These became the bridge that sustained my business while international and cruise travel slowly returned. That season taught me resilience, flexibility, and the importance of diversification.

The experience reinforced something I carry with me today: industries change, circumstances shift, but adaptability is a choice. Growth doesn’t always come from expansion. Sometimes it comes from endurance.

That pivot didn’t just preserve my business. It made me a stronger, more versatile advisor.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I have built my reputation on consistency and visibility. People have been able to see me actively doing the work I say I can do for them.

During the pandemic, when travel felt uncertain and constantly changing, I didn’t disappear. As destinations reopened, I traveled responsibly and shared real-time experiences with my audience. I provided updates about new protocols, airport processes, cruise requirements, and what clients could realistically expect. That visibility created trust.

It’s similar to choosing a barber. You can go to someone who says they know how to cut hair, or you can go to the one you consistently see cutting hair. My clients saw me navigating the industry firsthand.

Over the years, I’ve also strengthened my brand by hosting curated group cruises that bring my community together. My annual October group sailing, The Fall Voyage, has become a signature experience. I also organize themed cruises, including my upcoming Super Bowl and Valentine’s cruise in February 2027. These aren’t just trips, they’re intentional experiences where I show people how to travel confidently, maximize their investment, and truly enjoy the journey.

In addition, I make it a priority to invest in my professional development. I attend travel conferences, industry conventions, and supplier trainings. I pursue certifications and share milestones and awards not to boast, but to demonstrate growth and commitment to my craft.

Consistent action, not a single grand moment, builds reputation. By staying visible, educated, and engaged with my audience, I’ve positioned myself as both a trusted advisor and a leader within my market.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.twsjourneys.com www.novelcitybooks.com & www.successjenkins.com
• Instagram: @authordeonjenkins @pta_success
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/740056611684976

Image Credits

all are pictures from my phone