Leah Ponds shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Leah, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
What is intelligence or energy without integrity? Integrity is definitely the most important thing to me. I can put all of my energy and efforts into doing the wrong thing, or the dishonest thing. Or, I could be knowledgeable about things that don’t bring any value. If I’m determined to do my absolute best, put forth my absolute, most honest effort, that will influence every decision that I make. This will cause me to put my energies into making the most intelligent choices.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Leah Ponds of Leah Ponds Creative, LLC and I am an artist, videographer, and photographer. When starting the business nearly 2 years ago, I was sharing with a friend what I wanted to do. I was sharing that I wanted to name the business “Leah Ponds Art.” She said, “No… You do so many things! Name it ‘Leah Ponds Creative.'” That was such a wise suggestion because I feel like Leah Ponds Creative encompasses so many things that I do! Painting, logo design, web design, video production, photography and consultation. I love what I do and I love working with people to bring their visions to life. I want everyone to feel comfortable working with me and I want to make working together an enjoyable experience! It’s not just about the final product, it’s about the process. I want everyone to feel loved and taken care of once their project is complete.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I love this question. My relationship with Jesus Christ has been the foundation for how I see myself. Finding my identity in Him (meaning that I know who I am based on what He has said about me throughout the bible, and the truth He has impressed upon my heart over the years) has been completely life-changing. He has equipped me with the confidence to make bold moves, and do so with surety. The Holy Bible talks about how we are fearfully and wonderfully made in Psalm 139. Upon that scripture alone, I can be confident that Jesus Christ created me in such a unique way and has a purpose for my life. Without knowing who I am in Jesus, I wouldn’t have a clear vision of the purpose of why I do what I do. Each day, my relationship with Him shapes the choices that I make, the effort that I put in, the desire to honor and please Him, and my determination to bring His name honor and glory. So, on my best days, I see myself through His lens. And, on my worst days, He reminds me of who I am in Him, what He’s done for me, and how much He loves me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, weekly. Lol. Honestly, having your own business is challenging. It is, without a doubt, one of the most rewarding seasons of my life, but every season comes with obstacles. I honestly have found myself to be my biggest obstacle at times. My weariness, lack of inspiration/desire or doubt can be crippling at times. This is me being completely honest. But, as I shared, I find my strength in Jesus Christ, and He gives me the ability to move past feelings and move toward purpose. So, I would have thrown in the towel many times, but He has a plan and I want to be a part of it.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
What a great question. I’m not sure if I’ve ever reflected on this question before… The answer is: I sure hope so. That is my aim and my desire: to be my most authentic self at all times. I don’t want those closest to me to get one version of me, and the public to receive someone totally different. Ew. No. I want to be the real Leah Ponds at all times. I want to be approachable and transparent, loving and kind. I am, of course, not that way at all times… no one is. But even in my worst times, I want to be authentically who I am.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Not trusting the Lord in EVERYTHING. Oh if I could never doubt Him and His abilities again and do exactly what the Holy Bible says in Matthews 6:31-33!:
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Trusting the Lord with my future WILL ALWAYS pay off. NOT trusting Him is a waste of time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://leahpondscreative.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahpondscreative/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahponds/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahponds
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfullyyours1684
