Conversations with Frankie Endo Ondo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Frankie Endo Ondo.

Hi Frankie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was raised in a very conservative household on the East Coast by immigrant parents who wanted to provide a better life and education for me and my siblings. While the family plan was to excel in school, attend prestigious colleges, and pursue conventional careers, I stood out as the youngest, gay, and rebellious member. While my siblings aspired to become lawyers or diplomats like our father, I diverged, finding interest in pop culture and entertainment. Throughout my upbringing and college years, I often felt misunderstood and struggled to express myself due to my background. It wasn’t until 2020, during the pandemic, that I launched a successful podcast called “WTF with Frankie: The Declassified Guide To Adulting.” The positive response I received made me realize that I wasn’t alone and that others could relate to my experiences. The podcast also served as a healing process, allowing me to speak about past traumas and connect with my audience. Recognizing that my main demographic was young women navigating post-college life and relationships, I documented my experiences in LA during the pandemic summer. The podcast led to the creation of a relationship-themed drinking card game, “Draw the line: the game of dealbreakers and red flags,” in 2022. Following my father’s passing, I rebranded my podcast to focus on relationships and launched a new series titled “It’s not me, it’s you” in September 2023.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Reaching this point was challenging. When I began sharing my life with the world, my family disapproved, as they prioritize financial success and traditional jobs. It’s tough to pursue something amidst widespread negativity. However, I’ve held onto my vision since day one of starting the podcast. I embarked on this journey amid a pandemic, after college graduation. I dropped out of grad school, walked to a podcast studio, and recorded my first episode, not knowing what to expect. I also wasn’t prepared for receiving feedback from strangers on the internet who felt entitled to my life and story. I’ve learned to prioritize my feelings and morals over the show or listener preferences.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most recognized for my original podcast, “The Declassified Guide to Adulting,” which I initiated in 2020 and concluded in 2023. This venture led me to develop a card game, now available for purchase on Etsy and soon on Amazon, titled “Draw the Line: The Game of Dealbreakers & Red Flags.” Additionally, in August, I introduced two new games. Subsequently, in September, I launched a new podcast named “It’s Not Me, It’s You,” focusing on relationships and dating. Both of my podcasts have achieved global rankings on the Apple charts, with “The Declassified Guide” peaking at #25 in the United States entertainment news category. My proudest achievement is the creation of my card game. Following a difficult breakup and the passing of my father, I channeled my emotions and energy into developing a product that assists individuals in avoiding toxic relationships. The game serves as a tool for daters to discern who is deserving of their time. I receive frequent feedback from players who express how much they have learned about their friends and partners through the game, which brings me great satisfaction as it affirms that I have crafted a genuine and valuable product for my audience. What distinguishes me from others is my adaptability. Despite facing sudden challenges such as a breakup and the loss of my father, I recognized the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of my goals. I understood that in life, one must either rise to the occasion or succumb to adversity. Though circumstances were unfavorable, I remained committed to my vision and objectives.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
My brand, Draw the Line, is continuously developing new products to enhance your relationships. Our upcoming projects include a candle collection and an adult toy line. We have collaborated with dating show contestants and will soon launch the candle collection, promising to bring more excitement than ever before. I want to emphasize that with the support of the right friends, you can achieve anything. Every text, DM, purchase, social media repost, no matter how big or small, signifies your tribe’s support and encouragement.

Pricing:

• My card game draws the line: The OG version (played by all) is 25.00$
• Draw the line: The lovers edition (for couples) is 15$
• The x rated edition (for friends, game nights) is 15$

Contact Info:

• Website: https://playdrawtheline.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/frankieendoondo?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Twitter: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-me-its-you/id1706031954
• Other: https://instagram.com/frankieendoondo?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Felix @_hfelix on Instagram