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

Hi Austin, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
After working months on end I used to think I just needed a vacation to relax for a few days, only to come back home feeling more exhausted than when I left. So I knew that rest and play wasn’t the answer. It is when I’m faced with social challenges and out of the box experiences where I tend to get a boost. For example, I did a survival tour in the amazon jungle where the locals showed their way of finding food, medicine, making shelter etc. Such challenging circumstances get my mind to engage with people and the environment differently, giving a break to the portion of my mind that’s always in use. Another example is when I volunteered at a church to teach English as a second language. One would think adding this to an already demanding work schedule would stimulate burnout but it not only expanded my mind, but helped me discover a new sense of calling, for lack of a better word, that I hadn’t yet explored. The gratification of seeing someone else’s progress nourished me and gave me the joy I sometimes don’t get from work. So when I think about work life balance I think it has less to do with giving yourself rest than it has to do with living a life fulfilled.

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 a full time DJ and music producer by trade. I went from working a job where I felt I was withering and wasting away to now working with big brands like Jack Daniels and the Nashville Predators and having time to travel. I got here by wanting a change and putting one foot in front of the other. There were people in my circle who helped me get
opportunities to establish me in the field. Also, some things simply aligned with what I prayed for. I can’t say it was easy because there is an underlying language of politics, which can be challenging and annoying, especially, as a minority. But I’ve been provided for and try to enjoy the work as it comes. I’ve most recently learned to stop panicking. When work is slow or if I feel a venue is no longer a good fit for me, let it go and trust. All I can do is my best, after that there has to be trust and peace.

It took me a while to get here but I believe I am in a good place emotionally and professionally. Within my work people can find tools I’ve used to be encouraged and take next steps or to simply be grateful. I want people to know that my end goal is to encourage and provide a safe space. When people hear me play or see my work, they are protected from negativity and given a boost. Everything from my music to my travel music videos of which I am most proud and can be found on my YouTube, are there to give everyone a push in the right direction.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s assume it’s a Wednesday to Wednesday situation. Wednesday and Thursday are hiking and or lake days. The lake is not too busy, where we can float in the sun without too many boats. Friday for lunch we’re going to Bite a Bit Sushi. It’s a great asian fusion restaurant. In the afternoon we’d go to one of my favorite restaurants in east Nashville, Butcher and Bee. The whipped feta Is unreasonably delicious. I often go there just for the whipped feta. Friday night is a good evening to go Rosemary & Beauty Queen, right down the street from Butcher and Bee in fact. They have great taste in music, and an awesome, colorful, inviting back yard. Saturday we would go to Mother’s Ruin for lunch. They have great chips and chorizo dip as well as tasty vegetarian options. Then we’d head to Harriet’s Rooftop to hang out and chat. They have super tall walls lined with greenery and a chic outdoor patio that creates just the kind of space I would take friends from out of town. They also have some great DJ’s (wink wink). If my friends were looking to dance a little bit I’d take them to the roof of the Thompson Hotel, a place called LA Jackson. Sunday funday is a great day to go kayaking or go to the pool. There is a place called Tip a Canoe in Kingston Springs, about 30 minutes from the city center, where were could easily relax down the Harpeth river, with banks along the way to eat and chat. Monday is a great day for Slim and Husky’s Pizza and Sunda Sushi. At Slim & Husky’s, the option with the smoked salmon is my choice every time. And at Sunda, the beef bulgogi tacos. In fact, at this very moment that’s exactly what I want. Tuesday is Top Golf Tuedsays. Top golf is one of my favorite past times in Nashville and on Tuesdays, games are half off. There you have it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Daniel Ian Jones is an established DJ and musician. He’s done events for Michelle Obama, toured with Thomas Rhett, and regular plays around Nasvhille’s most popular rooftops.

[email protected]
@danielianjones

Website: https://WorldbyAustin.com

Instagram: @moreaustin

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_kUhartCoCTPO39XhUR2gA

Other: “Faith & Diamonds” is a short film I directed, wrote and produced in Africa. It’s is to artistically illustrate my journey combatting anxiety and promoting positivity. It can be found on my YouTube channel.

Image Credits
photo with yellow jacket was taken by @dlshots

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