“If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?

-Rupaul

My name is Lonnie Woods III. My pronouns are he/him/his.

I'm a thirty-something photographer, educator, home cook, podcast host and content creator living in Los Angeles. I’m a textbook Aquarius with a new school aesthetic and old school tendencies (picking collard greens in the sink, old). 

Think of me as a cross between the home and lifestyle talents of Martha Stewart the self-development focus of Iyanla Vanzant with a dash of Beyoncé and the style and talents of a modern renaissance man.

The Mission of LonnieWoodsTheThird.com

is to inspire all people to live their most authentic lives in style.

I started lonniewoodsthethird.com in 2017 as a way to promote my first book Fewer Versions Of Myself. Since then it has grown into a go-to resource for healthy recipes, personal style tips, and self-care reminders in the form of podcast episodes. Here, I share my journey towards self-acceptance, not as a template, but as an example of what unfiltered authenticity can look like when you are willing to do the work.

What makes me an expert?

I am so glad you asked, I’ve been waiting to humble flex.

I studied culinary arts in high school and was on a path to become a professional chef. I earned my undergraduate degree in Studio Art with a concentration in Fine Art Photography from Towson University . Yes, I can capture you in your best light (and angles) through photography.

I earned a Master’s in Student Affairs and Higher Education from NYU. My graduate degree supports my practice because student development theory is grounded in counseling and psychology. My fashion and personal style expertise comes naturally (I just got the sauce).

I have held various professional roles in K-12 and higher arts education. I have consulted for organizations such as The Smithsonian, The Studio Museum of Harlem, and The New York City Department of Education. 

Check out my full professional credentials here.

Enough about me, it’s time for you to explore the site so you can get one step closer to your most authentic self. Interested in more content from me? Keep in touch and subscribe to my newsletter to receive updates on all things lifestyle, food, home, beauty, career, personal style, and self care.

 In Love, Peace & Style,

-Lonnie