We recently had the chance to connect with Kadrien Yelsom and have shared our conversation below.
Kadrien , so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My day starts early with my first salah, Fajr — that’s my foundation. From there, I’ll usually put on an audiobook and take notes while I sip tea or black coffee and get my vitamins in. That way, I’m feeding both my mind and my body. I’m also working on building in a few miles of running as part of my morning rhythm. For me, those first 90 minutes are about discipline and alignment — spiritually, mentally, and physically. By the time the day really starts, I already feel like I’ve centered myself and made progress before the world even asks anything of me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kadrien Yelsom, a storyteller, designer and entrepreneur from Houston. At the core, what I do is create — whether that’s through fashion, fitness, or community building. My brand, KOTHELLO, is rooted in culture and discipline. It’s not just about clothing; it’s about empowerment and creating spaces where people can grow stronger — physically, mentally, and culturally.
My journey hasn’t been a straight line. I’ve experienced having a lot, losing it all, and rebuilding from the ground up. That perspective drives me to move with intention in everything I create. With KOTHELLO, I’m building more than a brand — I’m building a movement that merges streetwear, self-defense, and community into something authentic and lasting.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My biggest lessons about work came from two places: life itself and my mom. Life taught me discipline through setbacks — having and losing it all, then rebuilding — and that gave me a deep respect for consistency and perseverance. But my mom was the first example of it. She worked multiple jobs at a time my entire life, and seeing that sacrifice and drive firsthand showed me what work ethic really looks like. Between her example and my own experiences, I learned that work isn’t just about surviving — it’s about moving with intention and building something lasting.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me control over myself. Success can make you feel powerful, but suffering strips away illusions and forces you to master patience, endurance, and perspective. Success shows you what you can gain — but suffering shows you what you can endure and who you really are when everything else is gone.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I firmly believe in being genuine and authentic; I refuse to wear a mask to please anyone. I stand before Allah without pretense, knowing He is the only true judge. Public opinion is insignificant—it’s just noise that doesn’t sway me.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My Faith. Simple.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Kothello.co
- Instagram: Kadrienyelsom
- Other: @_kothello
Image Credits
@houpicsphotos
