In this episode, Greg Mathis Jr. and Elliott Cooper welcome photographer and creative visionary Jon Dailey to At The Table for one of the most heartfelt conversations of the season. Before Jon joins, Greg and Elliott kick things off with a Culture Catch-Up spotlighting A’ja Wilson, celebrating the WNBA champion’s authenticity, leadership, and her bestselling book Dear Black Girls. They also reflect on a recent car break-in in Hollywood that cost them an iPad — a frustrating but grounding reminder of the realities of city living. And, of course, they share what’s on the table: a full spread from Fixins Soul Kitchen, co-owned by former NBA star Kevin Johnson and his wife Michelle.

Once Jon arrives, the episode becomes an intimate journey through purpose, pain, and resilience. Jon opens up about growing up in Memphis as a twin and the youngest of seven, being raised by a single mother who hustled nonstop, and the deep impact of losing her in high school. He shares how his godparents stepped in as true chosen family, how their iconic Memphis restaurant The Four Way — a historic landmark where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once dined — shaped his understanding of legacy and community, and how his time at Jackson State University helped him embrace his creative path.

Jon then walks Greg and Elliott through his transition from engineering and government contract work to pursuing photography full-time in Los Angeles. What began with hustling for opportunities quickly grew into a standout career, leading him to work with major names including Taraji P. Henson, Regina King, Candace Dillard Bassett, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Cynthia Bailey, Alex Isley, Chris Perfetti, and more — not to mention capturing unforgettable images of Greg and Elliott themselves.

He speaks candidly about the realities of creative work: inconsistent income, undervaluation, and one painful payment dispute that became a turning point. Through it all, Jon credits the unwavering support of community — including close friends like Tay Hawes and Brian Henry — for helping him stay grounded, centered, and aligned. He also reflects on the importance of showing up authentically, trusting your path, and honoring the people who pour into you. One of the episode’s most powerful moments comes when Jon shares how Taraji insisted he shoot her Met Gala looks because his work moved her mother to tears.

Greg, Elliott, and Jon explore vulnerability, faith, and what it means to build family as an adult navigating a challenging industry. They close with their “Be Honest, Don’t Hold Back” segment and a Chef’s Kiss or Miss review of Fixins Soul Kitchen, where the gumbo, fried deviled eggs, and chicken “fried hard” earn a unanimous Chef’s Kiss.

This conversation is emotional, grounded, funny, and deeply inspiring — a reminder that purpose, creativity, and community can carry you through anything.