#MancrushMonday: Jared Ruttenberg

#MancrushMonday: Jared Ruttenberg is Ep 17 of my FABULOUS new series dedicated to showcasing some seriously inspiring men that have crossed my path. Previously on my #jaxpirational series I gave the ladies some props, it’s time the men got a shout out!

You’d be hard pressed to find a travel writer and toure guide with as much Joie de Vivre as Jared. So without further adieu let me introduce:

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a travel journalist based in Cape Town, South Africa.

When and where were you born?

March 1983 in South Africa

Where are you living now?

Cape Town

What kind of creative are you?

Travel Journalist

Name of your brand?

JaredinCPT

How did you discover your calling?

By exploring a myriad of options and over time refining it down to what I sensed was my core calling – a desire to connect people and experiences through travel journalism.

What do you love most about what you do?

The ability to feed my rather inquisitive nature by interviewing people, places, and spaces.

What do you like the least about what you do?

The constant travelling can be rather exhausting – not having a set routine it also difficult since I’m on the road for much of the time.

Who or what has been your biggest motivators ?

The unparalleled beauty that exists in South Africa. To have the privilege of being able to witness this and then share it with a larger audience keeps me motivated and itching to head out on the next adventure.

Have you experienced fear along the way & how did you overcome it?

Fear has manifested itself when I’ve not been certain about where my next work will come from. As a Freelancer I have no set income or retainer work to rely on. Every month comes with it the challenge of having to earn enough to see me through it.

What are your greatest achievement/s?

Having had the chance to review over 90 different accommodations in South Africa, and also being published over 100 times.

Who do you thank for your success?

Who? My supportive community and also the editors who were willing to give me a chance. What? Hard work and determination!

What upcoming projects do you have?

Several travel projects around South Africa, including trips to Mauritius, Morocco and Portugal when travel resumes.

How are you currently coping with the #Covid19 Crisis?

One day at a time – since each day brings its own challenges. I’m learning not to try and sweep away the difficult periods – they’re often ushered in by a deep sense of grief and loss and so I have to wait them out. When I do have moments of higher creativity and focus then I machinate my way through as much work as possible. I’ve had to adapt and slightly pivot (to use the phrase of the moment) my work and reply on some secondary forms of income until such time as travel is again possible. I’m also finding inspiration in the On Being podcast, and of course my piano!

Any words of encouragement for other male creatives out there?

Collaboration is key. Our industry – now more than ever – will thrive on creatives working together.

Where can we stalk you on social media?

Website: www.jaredincpt.com

Instagram: @jaredincpt

Twitter: @jaredincpt

Facebook: @jaredincpt

Special Thanks to Jared for his time and sharing a bit more about himself. Stay tuned for another #MancrushMonday next week!