Meet Jacob Larison of Parkville, Missouri

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Larison.

Hi Jacob, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelors in Architecture in 2013. I practiced architecture as a licensed architect in the Kansas City area for eight years before pivoting to full-time entrepreneur. In 2017 I created a website ozarkfloating.com and focused on floating rivers within the Ozark region. However, in 2021 my wife and I rented our house out and hit the road in our truck and travel trailer to travel the US and work remotely as digital nomads. We started our YouTube channel Larison Lifestyle to share our journey with friends, family and anyone interested in making the decision to become digital nomads. In order to set our truck and trailer up for full time travel, lots of changes and upgrades needed to be made. Instead of boring our viewers with the details of installing a solar system on our camper or a dual battery system in the truck, I decided to form my second YouTube channel Jacob’s Upgrades. This channel focuses on detailed install videos and product reviews for automotive and recreational vehicles.

While traveling full time for 2 years, we visited 35 states and 2 countries and documented all of our adventures on Larison Lifestyle YT channel. We’ve posted 134 long form videos throughout our journey on Larison Lifestyle. All of our upgrades, fixes and product reviews were documented on Jacobs Upgrades TY channel. Jacobs Upgrades is currently at 167 long form videos and I’m posting videos weekly. While my Ozark Floating website took a backseat, it has served as the parent company to the quickly growing YouTube channels.

Stepping away from architecture to become a full-time entrepreneur focused on growing the brands and communities I created while providing weekly quality content was a difficult decision. It’s led me to exciting opportunities I would have never dreamed of. I’m now working closely with 13 different brands through sponsorships and ambassador relations. I’m building brand awareness and integrating affiliate marketing into my content. I post videos frequently so make sure to check out my YouTube channels @larisonlifestyle @jacobsupgrades

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely not been a smooth road or clear path for creating a business. I had an identity crisis when I stepped away from architecture to become a business owner. Ozark Floating has pivoted to adapt to an ever-changing market. I experimented with drop shipping camping and floating gear but it never took off. Another challenge is people are no longer consuming information through blogs but rather vlogs: YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. The switch to YouTube was a clear indicator.

One challenge was hitting 1,000 subscribers on my YouTube channels in order to monetize both channels. Also it took me a few attempts (6 months later) to successfully become an Amazon affiliate to help drive revenue. Another challenge I still encounter is finding the right sponsors to connect with. Brands have turned me down for possible sponsorships, but I keep pressing forward! Lastly, finding ways to continually grow my business is a challenge.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
YouTube is my primary media. I post weekly videos on my Jacob’s Upgrades channel focusing on automotive upgrades, maintenance and product reviews on my 2015 Ford F150 and 1979 Ford Bronco. I also post content on our 2019 Grand Design Imagine travel trailer. My Larison Lifestyle YouTube channel has videos of our adventures; this has tapered off to once a month since we moved back home and welcomed our son Steele to the world. I am most proud of our travels across the US seeing many National Parks, historic sites, remote roads and meeting many new friends. It’s great to pull up one of our videos and reflect back on our incredible journey. What sets my YouTube channels apart is they are honest stories, adventures and information. When someone asks a question or gives feedback, I don’t hesitate to respond. Each comment receives a reply.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I have a background as a licensed Architect in Kansas City and have practiced in the medical, criminal justice and general practice fields. This experience and knowledge in design, construction and problem solving has helped me with storytelling, editing and business development. Architecture requires the constant pursuit of learning and development. These skills have transferred to the YouTube videos that I create.

Contact Info:

• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobsupgrades
• Other: https://youtube.com/@larisonlifestyle