Today we’d like to introduce you to Marlesia Barthelemy
Hi Marlesia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always been a storyteller. Whether through words, performance, or art, I found joy in bringing ideas to life. But my journey as an entrepreneur—building a brand that reflects my passions and purpose—wasn’t something I mapped out from the start. It was a path that unfolded with each step of faith, persistence, and creativity.
The Spark: Finding My Voice
As a child, I was expressive—always performing, journaling, or writing a story. Creativity felt natural, but I didn’t initially see it as a career path. Like many, I followed the expectations laid before me, but deep down, I knew I was meant for something different.
It wasn’t until I took a leap of faith into acting that I realized the power of storytelling. The stage became a place where I could embody emotions, transport audiences, and make an impact. From there, writing followed naturally. I had stories to tell—stories that could inspire, heal, and empower. I wrote my first book, No. 4, a compilation of poems to tell my story up to the 16 years of life, I’d felt led to express in order to feel heard.
Secondly, I wrote Indigo the Great is Grateful, to help young readers understand the importance of gratitude in not only small, but all things.
My most recent book, Check, Please Money Savings Challenge Workbook, helps others gain financial clarity, a topic I had to navigate in my own life.
Building a Brand: All Things Marlesia
Entrepreneurship wasn’t just about business for me—it was about purpose. I wanted to create something that encompassed every facet of who I am. That’s how All Things Marlesia was born. It’s not just a brand; it’s a movement where my passions in acting, writing, and singing collide with my mission to inspire, empower and entertain others.
Through trial and error, I learned how to market myself, build a community, and create value. I invested in my growth, studied my craft, and kept showing up—even when success wasn’t instant.
Faith, Family, and Forward Motion
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience and grace. There were moments of setbacks and seasons where I questioned the vision. But faith kept me moving forward. I leaned into my purpose, knowing that what God placed in me wasn’t just for me—it was to bless others.
Having the support of my husband, Jude, and my daughter, Nala, made the journey even more meaningful. They remind me that I’m building something bigger than myself—a legacy.
Where I Am Today
Now, I stand as a multifaceted creative: an actress captivating audiences, an author inspiring minds, and an artist bringing visions to life via lyricism. I’m also an educator, teaching women and children through carefully crafted curricula. I’ve launched a youth series, developed an educational kids’ show, and continue to expand my reach, knowing that my story is still unfolding.
This journey isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s where purpose meets power, and all things are possible. And the best part? I’m just getting started.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My most pivotal moments along this journey is when I met my husband. All along I was single and child free.
Once we established our relationship plans to get married, I knew my priorities were about to change. However, I didn’t expect my entire livelihood to be changed while encountering two major life milestones in one year. Yes, marriage and a lovely honeymoon baby.
Although it was unexpected, I cannot agree any more that she was meant to be here when she came.
I was not hindered by her arrival to pursue my goals. I performed, traveled, and even booked commericals even up to 8.5 months pregnant.
My motto, “One monkey don’t stop no show!” This train certainly kept on moving and now we are a dynamic trio. Ugh. I love it here.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve coined the name brand ‘ALL THINGS MARLESIA’ over the last 2 years.
As a creative, I find so many avenues to pursue when the timing is right.
I specialize in acting, modeling and performing arts, writing poetry, songs, and books, teaching, day trading, social media content. Literally, ALL the things I want to do because BARBIE said I can be anything.
I am known for exemplifying greatness and excellence, spreading light and positivity, and being an amazing multifaceted being who balances all of my many hats with grace.
I am most proud of being confident, outspoken, and bold to be myself, love myself for myself.
I am also proud of the fact that I never let anything stop me from the bigger picture.
What sets me a part from others is my upbringing. I was raised as a preachers kid in a predominantly lower-class demographic, but I was raised tucked away behind the gates of the suburbs. My upbringing allowed for me to have the freedom, flexibility, and adaptability to navigate all people, races, socioeconomic status, creed and religion and still LOVE each and every one of them no matter the differences. My upbringing showed me what it means to “not fit in because I was made to stand out”. I was accepted by all friend groups- the preppy girls, the jocks, the nerds, the athletes, the hood kids- it just came easily to me, but one thing about it, I NEVER changed who I am at my core. . . and that is God’s creation. Therefore, I show up in spaces as a creator in honor of the life I’ve been afforded day after day.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
PINTEREST is life. Period.
Currently, I am reading KeKe Palmer’s newest book, “Master of Me”.
A few good reads are “Who Moved My Cheese?”. “A Happy Pocket Full of Money”, & “Untamed”.
I’ve been tuned into “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer” podcast on YouTube lately. I think the book had something to do with me supporting her across the board.
Lastly, my millionaire mentor on YouTube, thee Myron Golden has the best Biblical Financial Principles -EVER.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.allthingsmarlesia.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjust_marlesia/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marley.jones.313/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjFVSqmCKas96ztk8dzTNlg
