Meet Jude Amoako | Founder of Based On A True Story

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

Hi Jude, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Based On A True Story (BOATS)” was born from a deep understanding that each person carries a unique narrative. My own story is a testament to this. Born with sickle cell anemia, I always found it hard to open up about my experiences. The fear of being perceived as weak or misunderstood was overwhelming. I hated the idea of others knowing about the struggles I faced, particularly my battles with sickle cell anemia, frequent hospitalizations, and recovering from a stroke; these were parts of my life I was reluctant to acknowledge, much less share with the world.

Yet, it was these very struggles that shaped me. They crafted the resilience I’m known for today. In the face of adversity, when giving up seemed the easiest option, these challenges spurred me on. They taught me the invaluable lesson of rising each time I fell. The pain I endured became a lens through which I learned to empathize, look beyond appearances, and understand that everyone has their battles, often unseen.

This led me to take charge of my narrative and in doing so, to help others do the same. Vulnerability, particularly as a Black man, is not easy. It’s a journey filled with hurdles. But because of vulnerability, I discovered my strength. I realized that my story, unique and one of a kind, is worth sharing. This evolution, coupled with a desire to bring to light the stories that often go unnoticed, laid the cornerstone for BOATS. Our mission is to illuminate these unique narratives, celebrating the strength and individuality inherent in each one.

In today’s information-saturated world, it’s too easy to lose our sense of self. BOATS was created as an antidote to break through this cycle, to attack the widespread issues of imposter syndrome and self-doubt.

As a personal branding agency, BOATS specializes in creating comprehensive marketing tools, with a unique focus on short film documentaries. We guide our clients on a journey to embrace and truthfully narrate their paths to success, emphasizing that struggles and challenges are not just hurdles but pivotal chapters in their life stories.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that true empowerment comes from owning our entire narrative, including the pain and struggles. Our motto, “Pain to Champagne, ” encapsulates this philosophy,” symbolizing the transformation from overcoming hardships to celebrating our unique, authentic greatness. At BOATS, we don’t just tell stories; we celebrate the journey of individual greatness, turning personal trials into triumphs.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Starting “Based On A True Story (BOATS)” has been a journey marked by growth, challenges, and self-discovery. At times, I’ve grappled with self-doubt, questioning the adequacy of my efforts. However, this process has significantly shaped my mindset, instilling in me a sense of discipline and determination. I’ve learned to be my own harshest critic, continuously pushing myself to excel beyond my own benchmarks, without comparing myself to others.

One of the unique aspects of BOATS is its foundation in the belief of the importance of individual stories, inspired by influences like Muhammad Ali’s self-belief, Marianne Williamson’s empowering words, and Howard Thurman’s emphasis on authenticity. These influences remind us to embrace our complete story and to showcase our unique selves. Our slogan, “From Pain to Champagne,” encapsulates the journey from overcoming hardships to celebrating our individuality.

The challenges I’ve faced in building BOATS were often reflective and personal. It was difficult to open up and share my story, but in advocating for others to share theirs, I realized I had to lead by example. This act of sharing became a turning point, making the words and beliefs I was promoting even more real and impactful to me. I’ve learned that striving for perfection isn’t always necessary; what matters more is the effort and the intention behind it.

What I want the world to know about BOATS is that it’s more than just a business; it’s a testament to the power of personal growth and the impact of owning your story. We encourage people to recognize their unique greatness and to understand that every challenge faced is a step towards realizing their potential. The journey hasn’t been easy, but the lessons learned and the personal evolution experienced are what make BOATS not just a brand, but a beacon of inspiration and authenticity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve never had the chance to visit San Diego myself, but if I ever do, the zoo is at the top of my list. Everyone I know who’s been there raves about the San Diego Zoo. It seems like a fantastic place, full of diverse animals and interesting exhibits. If you’re heading to San Diego, definitely consider spending a day at the zoo. And from what I’ve heard, the food scene there is awesome too. Whether you love seafood, crave Mexican flavors, or just want some classic comfort food, San Diego has it all. Imagine a day exploring the zoo and then unwinding with some delicious local cuisine. That sounds like an ideal day to me

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I must express my gratitude to my friends and family for their support. However, three key influences have been especially pivotal in shaping my mindset.

Firstly, Muhammad Ali’s iconic declaration, “I AM THE GREATEST,” has been a profound inspiration. Often misconstrued as arrogance, I see it as a powerful affirmation of one’s unique greatness. It reminds us that there is only one Muhammad Ali, and similarly, each of us is unparalleled in our own right.

Secondly, a significant influence comes from Marianne Williamson’s book, “A Return to Love.” A particular quote that resonates with me is: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us… We are all meant to shine, as children do… As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” This quote encapsulates the spirit of BOATS – the belief in our inherent greatness and the call to embrace and showcase our unique selves.

Lastly, Howard Thurman’s speech, “The Sound of the Genuine,” offers profound guidance. His words, “There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself… if you cannot hear it, you will all of your life spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls,” have been a cornerstone in the philosophy behind BOATS. Thurman’s emphasis on discovering and following our genuine path underscores the importance of authenticity and self-discovery.

These influences – Ali’s unwavering self-belief, Williamson’s empowering affirmation, and Thurman’s call to authenticity – are the bedrock upon which BOATS is built. They remind us to honor our complete story, embracing both triumphs and trials, as this authenticity is what truly makes us great.

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