Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Jason Diggs, and how would you describe yourself to someone who never met you?
I would describe myself as a multi-faceted individual. One who has ventured into and been involved as an entrepreneur, musician and athlete. These three “lives” have heavily influenced my journey.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised in Christiansburg. My parents were both educators and dedicated themselves to nurturing meaningful experiences for me as a child. I had a very humble upbringing where I learned the value of hard work, resilience and being a leader. My interests at a young age were basketball, football and music. As an elementary student, I had a poem published in Virginia Magazine which sparked a love for songwriting. My passion for basketball ultimately led me to being a recognizable name throughout the region.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I attended Catawba College as a scholarship athlete. I studied four years (2004-2008) earning my BS in Business Administration. I was a part of a winning culture as an athlete winning three league championships. During that time, I was sharpening my skillset as a musician, eventually signing a contract with Total Package Productions in Charlotte, N.C. I learned audio engineering, strengthened my song writing ability and focused on musical performance.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am a co-owner of ADED LLC., along with my wife. The business serves as a master contractor option for third party logistics companies. We currently service the auto-parts, pharmaceutical and medical supply industries. Come December, we’ll have been in business for eight years.
How important is family to you?
Family is very important! I come from a tight-knit immediate family that ate dinner together every single evening. As a husband and father of three, we have created our own traditions and cherish our time together.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Ironically, I travel between seven and eight hours regularly. My current playlist includes my favorite hip-hop artist (Jadakiss), my favorite gospel artist (John P Kee) and an assortment of soulful jazz instrumentals.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
These consist of going to the Henry Street Festival as a child. My father worked out of Roanoke and was involved in introducing me to the community. We used to grab art pieces every year that still hang in my parents’ home to this day.
What are some of your hobbies?
My current hobbies are practicing the piano and drums in my home studio, singing in my home church choir, along with some pick-up basketball whenever my schedule allows for it.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
During my college years, I met a man named Anthony Anderson. He was a mentor to one of my teammates. He introduced me to the music industry and became a big brother type figure in my life. Whether it was going to church, or providing meals and guidance, he was always just a phone call away if I ever needed anything.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I would simply tell myself to be patient. Any misstep you will have will come from acting in haste. Keep life simple as an adult and it will create a substantial number of opportunities.
