We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jeff Thomas. Check out our conversation below.
Jeff, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
What I’m most proud of building — that most people don’t really see — is a business that taps into people’s nostalgia and passion. There’s something powerful about creating experiences that bring someone joy or remind them of something they love. Even if it’s just for a moment, knowing I played a part in sparking that feeling makes all the hard work worth it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a Raleigh native who’s always loved bringing people together. Back in the 2010s, I was putting on music events all over North Carolina, and now I’m doing the same thing — just in a different way — by building a thriving gaming community. It’s been such a rewarding journey.
What started as my own nostalgia for the games and experiences I grew up with in the ’80s and ’90s has turned into a brand that connects our community in the best way. Raleigh Retro Gamers is dedicated to creating spaces where people of all ages can rediscover their passions or create new memories with loved ones. Giving people an escape from their daily routines to enjoy themselves and connect through something timeless is truly special.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think we all have a lot more in common than we realize. These days, it feels like social media and outside factors can make it easier to focus on what divides us instead of what connects us. We’ve kind of forgotten how to just talk and hang out with each other. I really believe a little empathy and kindness go a long way.
That’s one of the reasons I love doing events — they remind us that it’s not about our differences, it’s about our shared passions. Seeing such an eclectic crowd laughing, trading stories, and just having fun together is honestly one of the best parts of what I do.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I think my biggest fear was wondering if I was really ready for this — if I’d be successful, or what other people might think. Honestly, your own thoughts can be your biggest obstacle when it comes to chasing your dreams. Over time, I realized you don’t have to have everything figured out or wait for the perfect moment — because that moment doesn’t exist. If you keep waiting, you’ll never start.
Just take the first step, no matter how small it is. Make the call, send the email, Google the thing you don’t know — whatever gets you moving. The key is to just start, and not let the fear of failing or what others might say hold you back.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I think it’s really important to have a solid circle of people around you — folks who know you well and aren’t afraid to be honest. Whether it’s close friends, colleagues you choose, your spouse, or family, those are the people whose ideas and feedback I rely on most. Who you spend your time with says a lot about you, and having good people in your corner can make all the difference. They’ll be your biggest allies — in both life and business.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope I made my son proud. He’s my legacy, and if he grows up feeling inspired to explore his own passions the way I have — and it makes him happy — then that means everything to me.
Outside of my family, I hope people remember the moments they shared at one of my events — the laughter, the good times, and the people they were with. If I helped create even one special memory for someone, that would be enough for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://raleighretrogamers.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/raleighretrogamers
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/raleigh-retro-gamers-llc/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RaleighRetro
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/raleighretrogamers
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaleighRetroGamers
- Other: https://www.reddit.com/user/raleighretrogamers
Image Credits
Raleigh Retro Gamers LLC
