#86. How to Stop Caring What People Think (And Start Living Authentically) with Leighton Jones

Okay. This episode? It’s one of those conversations that stays with you.

This week on Mostly All Figured Out, I’m sitting down with my incredible friend Leighton Jones - dancer, nurse, immigrant, political advocate, community builder, and one of the most fearless humans I know.

We talk about what it actually means and looks like to stop caring what people think… and why that’s way harder than Instagram makes it look.

Leighton shares his story of immigrating from Jamaica to the U.S. at 19, growing up in a country where being gay is illegal, surviving bullying and violence, and choosing - over and over again - to live authentically anyway. And let me tell you… this conversation will make you rethink what bravery really looks like.

We get into:

• Why your reaction is your power
• How to stop people-pleasing (especially when it’s your default)
• The difference between online connection and real-life community
• Immigrant resilience and the trauma people don’t talk about
• Facing fears around money, business, and asking for what you’re worth
• What it looks like to choose joy on purpose

There’s laughter. There’s real talk. There are uncomfortable truths. There’s a moment where I get lovingly called out (and honestly? I needed it).

If you’ve ever:

• Held yourself back because you were afraid of being judged
• Struggled to show up authentically online
• Felt torn between who you are and who people expect you to be
• Needed permission to choose yourself

This one’s for you.

We’re stepping into 2026 with courage, boundaries, bold energy, and way less caring about what the wrong people think.

Let’s get into it 💛

Follow Leighton for all the details on dance classes and what he's up to next on IG @leejay____

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Show theme music by: @4thstringaudio