When Joe Lepinski first propped up his phone in his Montclair State University dorm room in 2021, he had no idea he was laying the foundation for a social media career that would reach millions.
At the time, the world was still navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Campus life had slowed, activities were limited, and students were spending more time alone in their rooms.
For Lepinski, that quiet became an opening.
“I would go to class, come back to my dorm and there was really nothing going on,” he says. “So I just propped up my phone and started filming.”
What began as a way to pass time quickly turned into something much bigger.
Today, the Woodbridge native—known online as Jersey Joe—has built a following of more than 7.2 million on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram. His upbeat dance videos and high-energy presence have made him one of New Jersey’s most recognizable social media creators.
Joe’s love for dance started long before social media.
Growing up in New Jersey, he spent Friday nights at roller rinks and danced at home while his mother cooked dinner.
“I’ve loved dancing since I was about four years old,” he says.
That early passion became the backbone of his content. When he joined TikTok, Joe focused almost entirely on dance videos, posting consistently to build momentum.
“Consistency is key,” he says. “The more you post, the more people will see you.”
At first, growth was slow. He hovered around 36,000 followers for months before one video changed everything.
“My views just kept going up from there,” he says.
A major part of Joe’s identity is his connection to New Jersey culture. His content is influenced by Jersey Club, a fast-paced music and dance style that originated in Newark and defines the region’s creative scene.
“That style of dance really helped bring me to where I am today,” Joe says. “When you hear a Jersey Club remix, you can’t help but move.”
Even his online name reflects that identity, blending his nickname with his home state and culture.
As his platform grew, so did his opportunities.
Joe has collaborated with major creators and brands, including working with YouTube creator MrBeast.
“That was pretty cool,” he says.
He has also partnered with teams including the New York Giants, Knicks, Rangers, and New Jersey Devils, bringing his dance content into the sports world. He continues to work with businesses across New Jersey on promotional content.
Before social media, Joe was already a performer. At Montclair State University, he spent more than two years as Rocky the Red Hawk, the school’s mascot.
The role required energy, creativity, and crowd engagement.
“I loved interacting with the audience at games,” he says.
The experience sharpened his performance skills, even if the costume came with challenges.
“It was a lot of fun, but it was definitely hot,” he adds with a laugh.
Despite his fame, Joe says his mission remains simple: positivity.
“I love entertaining people,” he says. “If someone’s having a bad day and sees my video, I want it to make them smile.”
That mindset shapes his content, focusing on uplifting energy rather than negativity.
Joe also emphasizes authenticity.
“You can’t worry about what people think,” he says. “We only live once, so do what makes you happy.”
Looking ahead, he aims to reach 10 million TikTok followers and dreams of appearing on Dancing With the Stars. He even attended the show’s TikTok Night in Los Angeles.
“It was crazy to be there,” he says. “That would definitely be a dream.”
For now, he continues creating daily and growing his audience from a dorm-room idea into a global platform.
“I just want to spread positive vibes,” he says.
Follow Jersey Joe:
TikTok: @jerseyyjoe
Instagram: @jerseyyjoe
Photo Credits:
Shots by Daedrie
Captured NJ
“I just want to spread positive vibes,”—Joe Lepinski