Meet Julian Mcknight | Julian McKnight community catalyst, goodwill ambassador, humanitarian.

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

Hi Julian, what makes you happy? Why?
What makes me truly happy is being able to make a difference in people’s lives, no matter how big or small. I’ve always found joy in helping others, whether it’s through volunteering in my community or simply offering my time and skills to those in need. It gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that I can be there for someone when they need it most.

But above all, my greatest source of happiness comes from my kids, Jax (4) and Melody (2). They are the light of my life and the reason I strive to be the best version of myself. Every time I see their smiles, I’m reminded of what’s truly important—love, kindness, and making the world a better place for them. My passion for helping others is something I hope to pass on to them, teaching them the value of community and the joy that comes from giving without expecting anything in return.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is my genuine passion for helping others without expecting anything in return. I’ve always believed that if you have the ability to help someone, you should, and that’s driven me to go out of my way to offer my time and energy to those who need it most.

I’m most proud of the impact I’ve been able to make through my volunteer work. Whether it’s helping someone move, fixing something in their home, or simply offering a listening ear, knowing that I’ve made someone’s day a little brighter is incredibly fulfilling.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. Balancing my passion for volunteering with my responsibilities as a parent to Jax and Melody, along with my personal life, has had its challenges. There have been times when I’ve felt stretched thin, but the support from my friends and family has been crucial in helping me stay on course.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and staying true to your values. There were moments when I questioned whether I could keep giving so much of myself, but seeing the positive outcomes has always reinforced my commitment.

What I want the world to know about me is that I’m driven by a simple yet powerful belief: that kindness can change lives. My story is about using whatever resources and time I have to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem. My brand is one of genuine care and a commitment to lifting others up, and that’s something I strive to embody every day.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting San Diego, I’d want to give them an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of what the city has to offer. Here’s how I’d plan our week-long adventure:

Day 1: Beach Day & Sunset

Morning: Start the trip with breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla, known for its delicious brunch options.
Afternoon: Head to La Jolla Shores for some beach time, maybe even trying out some surfing.
Evening: Grab some fresh seafood at George’s at the Cove while enjoying a spectacular sunset over the ocean.
Day 2: Balboa Park & Downtown Exploration

Morning: Explore Balboa Park, visiting a couple of museums like the San Diego Museum of Art and the Air & Space Museum.
Afternoon: Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and have lunch at Panama 66.
Evening: Head downtown for dinner at Born & Raised, followed by drinks at Noble Experiment, a hidden speakeasy.
Day 3: Old Town & Mission Bay

Morning: Immerse in some history at Old Town San Diego, exploring the historic sites and enjoying some Mexican cuisine at Café Coyote.
Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day at Mission Bay, renting kayaks or paddleboards.
Evening: Have a casual dinner at Luigi’s at the Beach in Mission Beach, followed by a sunset walk along the boardwalk.
Day 4: Day Trip to Coronado

Morning: Take the ferry to Coronado Island and have breakfast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop.
Afternoon: Explore the island, visit the iconic Hotel del Coronado, and relax on Coronado Beach.
Evening: Return to San Diego and dine at Mister A’s, with stunning views of the city skyline.
Day 5: North County Adventures

Morning: Drive up to Encinitas and start the day with coffee at Better Buzz Coffee.
Afternoon: Explore the meditation gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship and hit the waves at Swami’s Beach.
Evening: Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at The Plot in Oceanside.
Day 6: East County & Nature

Morning: Take a hike at Cowles Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: Visit Julian, a charming mountain town known for its apple pies, and have lunch at Julian Pie Company.
Evening: Return to the city for a laid-back dinner at Urban Solace in North Park.
Day 7: Downtown & Farewell

Morning: Brunch at Great Maple in Hillcrest.
Afternoon: Visit the USS Midway Museum for some naval history.
Evening: End the trip with a farewell dinner at Ironside Fish & Oyster in Little Italy, followed by gelato at Pappalecco.
San Diego is full of vibrant culture, natural beauty, and exciting activities, and this itinerary would definitely show my friend why it’s such a special place to live.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my friends and family, who have been my pillars of strength and encouragement. Their unwavering support, love, and belief in what I’m doing have been invaluable. From my close friends who have always been there to lend a hand, to my family who continually inspires me to be the best version of myself, especially my kids, Jax and Melody, who are the driving force behind everything I do. They remind me daily of the importance of kindness, compassion, and making a positive impact in the world.

Website: https://www.julianmcknight.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.mcknight.5

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustJulian257