Serving Grace with a Side of Sass: Meet Jojo

Hey, I'm Jo. Well, Katlyn Jo, but everyone just calls me Jojo. I'm a Texas mama, a wife, & a whole lot more. But I wasn't always the woman I am today. 5+ years ago & before my family, I lived a very different life. I was deep into bodybuilding, surrounded by the wrong friends, living for myself, & I didn't know God. At 27 years old, everything changed when I gave my life to Christ.

Since then, my walk with God has shaped me into who I am now. These days, I'm a full-time mama (yes, I homeschool), I lead women's Bible studies, counsel with Biblical wisdom, & spend a whole lot of time in church. Somewhere along the way, I even found myself stepping into the tactical community, which is something I never thought I'd do. I joined Warrior Women International almost 3 years ago. Back then, it was just Zoom calls. Now, it's grown into retreats, deep friendships, & training together to defend ourselves & our homes.

Community has become my heartbeat. I'm passionate about strong relationships & serving others, because I know that's part of the Kingdom work I've been called to do. My loves are simple but fierce: Jesus, my family, self-defense, & becoming self-governable in every way. I dream of one day living on land with my people... & cows. Definitely cows.

I first connected with Guts & Grit because of my best friend, Megan. But it wasn't just our friendship that drew me in. It is because of what the brand stands for. The designs feel like art that speaks to values the world has forgotten: faith, strength, community, & resilience. Plus, Megan herself is one of the most generous, Christ-like people I've ever known. To know her is to know her heart, so supporting this brand is a no brainer for me.

My favorite design is, "We Can Do It!" She's got a bandana & rifle, just like me. I'm always in a bandana, rocking big tees, a little messy but still cute (I call it my "trash bandit" look). Between raising my daughter, going to the gym, & making sourdough, I wear Guts & Grit through it all.

Here's the realest thing I can tell you: you're never too far gone to come back to the One who made you. I grew up in brokenness, from poverty, abuse, & raising myself & my sister while my mom struggled. I burned bridges, I lived recklessly, & I even got to the point of suicide. I begged God for another way. If He can redeem me, He can redeem you. Perfect love really does cast out fear.

When I wear Guts & Grit, it is a reminder of strength, faith, of living boldly & unafraid. It's me saying: I've walked through hell, but I'm still here, stronger, louder, & unashamed of who I am. At the end of the day, I hope my story reminds you of this: there's always another choice. 

Also, if you want to follow along, you can find me on IG: @katlynjo.willard